Richard Cook, Technical Director at international slate specialists SSQ, explains why compromising on roofing materials to save money can lead to significant long-term problems and ultimately damage both projects and contractor reputations.
In today's challenging economic climate, it's becoming increasingly common to see contractors looking for ways to trim costs as project deadlines loom and budgets tighten.
Such a 'race to the bottom' mentality can have severe consequences, particularly when it comes to roofing materials.
When projects face delays and costs overrun, the roof often becomes a target for cost-cutting simply because it's one of the final elements to complete. However, this approach fundamentally misunderstands the critical role that quality roofing, and quality natural slate, plays in a building's longevity and performance.
The true cost of a roof isn't just about the initial investment – it's about lifetime value. Take our Riverstone phyllite, for example. While it may carry a higher upfront cost compared to man-made alternatives like clay or concrete tiles, its superior durability means you won't need to replace it two or three times over the building's lifetime, as you might with lesser materials.
Quality natural slate offers many benefits: exceptional weather resistance, superior water-tightness, fire resistance, and minimal maintenance requirements. In fact, premium slate often outlasts the very buildings it protects. However, these advantages evaporate quickly when inferior products are used.
The problems associated with low-quality slate can be severe and costly. Oxidation can cause unsightly coloured staining and potential structural weakening. Leaching can result in white streaking and premature deterioration. Perhaps most concerning is delamination, where slate layers separate and flake due to freeze-thaw erosion.
When water fills small cracks and gaps in slate, it freezes in cold weather and the ice expands, which causes bits of slate to break off and could potentially lead to dangerous falling slates and can lead to leaks. The more water slate absorbs, the more susceptible it is to freeze-thaw erosion, with the best slate having very low water absorption.
The consequences of choosing inferior slate extend far beyond immediate cost savings. Contractors often face expensive remedial work, warranty claims, and reputational harm damage.
As project pressures mount, it's crucial to remember that the roof is not just another building component – it's a building's first line of defence against the elements. A quality slate roof might require more initial investment, but it provides superior protection, requires minimal maintenance, and exceptional longevity.
The choice is clear: invest in quality now or pay significantly more later. In roofing, as in many aspects of construction, the adage holds true – you get what you pay for.
For more information on how you can ensure you are selecting quality natural slate, get in touch with SSQ on 020 8961 7725, or visit www.ssqgroup.com. With four decades of expertise and fast lead times, SSQ provide a consistent supply of quality natural slate products.
