GET YOUR FREE SLATE ROOFING ESTIMATE NOW!
SLATE ROOF TILES SYDNEY
If you’re interested in a slate roof, you’re in the right place. Slate is one of the most durable and reliable building materials, and it has been used for roofing for hundreds of years. With a long life expectancy, and minimal requirements for maintenance and repairs, a high quality slate roof pays for itself multiple times over its 100 year lifespan.
Interested in learning more about slate roofing, and slate roof tiles? You’re in the right place. In this article, we’ll discuss the basics about this roofing material.


WHAT IS A SLATE TILE?
Slate is a natural “metamorphic” rock, and it is extremely dense and durable. Slate is created when shale-type rocks made of clay or volcanic ash are subjected to low-grade metamorphism – high pressure and temperatures that change the molecular structure of the rock.
This results in a highly-compressed, fine-grained rock that forms smooth and flat sheets of stone. For centuries, slate has been quarried for use in roof and floor tiles, because it naturally “cleaves” into shingles. Slate comes from all around the world, though some of the best slate comes from quarries in Canada, Wales, and Spain.
In addition, it is ideal for roofs. Slate roof tiles have an average water absorption index of 0.4% – one of the lowest of any roofing materials. High quality slate roofing has a life expectancy of over 100 years, which can easily extend into centuries with proper roof repair services.
If you are interested in the highest quality results for your next roofing project, slate roof tiles may be the best choice for you. Next, let’s discuss some of the most common types of slate available on the market today.
WHAT ARE THE MOST COMMON TYPES OF SLATE?
There are hundreds of slate quarries all over the world, but the most common types of slate come from Spain, Wales, and Canada. Composite slate is also often used for customers with a lower budget. Let’s take a look at each one now.
- Welsh slate – There are two types of popular Welsh slate in use today; Penrhyn, and Cwt-y-Bugail. Welsh Penrhyn is widely regarded as one of the best types of slate in the world, and it is quarried in Wales, near Bethesda. It has been in use since the 13th century, and has extremely strict quality control standards – less than 10% of the slate extracted is dubbed to be of high enough quality to be used in roofing projects.
Cwt-y-Bugail is also mined in Wales, from Ffestiniog. It has a finely-textured surface and a very dark blue-gray color, and it is mined using the latest modern technology to provide a consistent finish and size. - Spanish slate – There are multiple slate quarries in Spain, but the most famous is the Del Carmen slate mine. Del Carmen slate is internationally-recognized for its color consistency, durability, and gorgeous natural appearance, and it has been used in building such as the British Museum and Buckingham Palace.
- Canadian slate (Glendyne) – Glendyne slate is highly sought-after, and comes from a mine in Quebec that is more than 500 million years old. With a deep blue-gray finish, Glendyne is well known for being incredibly pure, and totally free of any pyrite or other metallic intrusions. It’s also incredibly dense, making it very energy-efficient.
- Composite slate – Composite slate is different from natural slate, and it’s a good option for those who want the benefits of a slate roof, but do not need a 100+ year lifespan, or are interested in saving some money during their project.
Composite slate uses a natural blend of cellulose fibres and high-quality fibre cement, to create durable tiles that look natural, and maintain most of the beneficial qualities of natural slate – for a lower price.




WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF A SLATE ROOF?
Not sure why you should choose a slate roof, or what the benefits of a slate roof are? Or perhaps you’re wondering why slate typically costs twice – or more – compared to other roofing materials. Let’s break down just a few of them now, and show you why slate roofs are worth the investment.
- 100+ year lifespan – Slate roofs can easily last for a century before they require repairs, and it’s not unheard of for a slate roof to last 300 years – or longer. Even when repairs are required, the vast majority of slate tiles will remain intact, and will not require replacement.
- Minimal maintenance and repairs required – A simple annual or biannual inspection to look for damaged or cracked tiles is all that is needed to ensure your roof’s integrity.
- Fire-resistant – Slate does not react to fire, so it is a good choice for any home located in a dry area, or if fire-resistance is required in a public building or a home.
- High thermal efficiency – Because it is heavy and dense, slate is a highly efficient insulator. In warm weather, it helps prevent cool air from escaping into the atmosphere, and in cold weather, it minimizes the escape of warm air. This can have a significant effect on your power bills – making slate a great long-term investment.
CONTACT NSW SLATE ROOFING SYDNEY FOR PROFESSIONAL SLATE ROOF TILES INSTALLATION!
At NSW Slate Roofing, we have years of experience with slate roofs, and we’re the #1 choice for slate roofing in Sydney. With fantastic customer service, more than 3 decades of experience installing slate roofs, and the best slate suppliers in Australia, we’re the best partner for your project.
If you are interested in a slate roof, let us know! Whether you need slate roof repairs, or you’re thinking about a new slate roof, we would love to hear about your project, and give you a no-obligation quote! Call today on 1300 050 924, or contact us through the online enquiry form!
TYPES OF SLATE WE SPECIALISE IN
Welsh Slate
At NSW Slate Roofing, we have decades of experience with slate roofs of all kinds – including Welsh slate roofs. Welsh slate is a building material renowned for its quality and durability, and is highly sought-after in international markets.
Spanish Slate
If you’re interested in a long-lasting, beautiful roofing material, Spanish slate is a great option. While most asphalt roofs will fail within 25 years or 30 years, a high quality slate roof can easily last for over 100 years.
Canadian Slate
At NSW Slate Roofing, we have a tremendous variety of slate in stock. From Canadian Glendyne to Welsh Penrhyn slate, we can help you get any material for your heritage slate roof.
Composite Slate
Composite slate is a great alternative to a natural slate roof. It offers a beautiful appearance and a life span of more than 30 years, and it’s low-maintenance roofing material.