True Cost Guide Roofing Install a Slate Roof

How Much Does It Cost to Install A Slate Roof?

Typical Range:

$5,555 - $23,872

Cost data is based on actual project costs as reported by 148 HomeAdvisor members. Embed this data

How We Get This Data

Homeowners use HomeAdvisor to find pros for home projects.

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When their projects are done, they fill out a short cost survey.

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We compile the data and report costs back to you.

Updated March 14, 2022

Written by HomeAdvisor.

2022 Notice: Material Prices are Surging

Demand for roofing has grown over the past year. And, as a result, manufacturers are increasing materials prices. Prices have gone up 5% to 10% this year, and many parts of the country are experiencing long delivery times. If you're planning a roofing project, we recommend starting as early as possible in the season, preparing for potential price fluctuations, and allowing extra time to order materials.

Slate Roof Cost

The average roofing installation price for a slate tile roof costs anywhere between $5,555 and $23,872 depending on your roof’s slope, pitch, and size. You’ll pay between $10 and $30 per square foot, or $1,000 to $3,000 per square, for a typical single=story home. You should consider factors like the type of slate (synthetic, hard, or soft), roof pitch, height off the ground, and if your roof can support the added 800 to 1,500 pounds per square. Job complexity and slate shipping will also affect your budget. Other cost factors include the price of the slate itself, labor, and materials like flashings, nails, membranes, caulk, and felt.

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National Average	$14,218
Typical Range	$5,555 - $23,872
Low End - High End	$300 - $45,000

Cost data is based on actual project costs as reported by 148 HomeAdvisor members.

Slate Roof Cost per Square Foot

Real slate roofs cost $10 to $30 per square foot on average to purchase and install. Some homeowners have reported prices nearing $80 per square foot, which likely includes freight, materials, and installation for a high-end, complex install. The cost per square foot depends on the type of slate you want:

Hard slate: $20–$30 per square foot. Lasts 100 to 200 years.
Soft slate: $10–$20 per square foot. Lasts 50 to 125 years.
Synthetic slate: $5–$10 per square foot. Lifespan varies.

Slate Roof Price per Square

Slate roof shingles cost $1,500 per square on average but may range from $1,000 to $3,000 per square. Each square is 100 square feet.

Slate Roof Tile Prices

Slate prices range from $5 to $15 per square foot for the materials alone. You can talk to your installer about what type will work best with your home style and budget. Natural slate tiles harvested from the earth are a premium product in limited supply. They also come in different categories—hard and soft—and in several colors, shapes, and sizes.

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Synthetic Slate Roof Cost

Synthetic slate roofs cost $5 to $10 per square foot, depending on your material choice. They generally cost about half as much as natural slate. You can choose a synthetic slate look from a variety of sources, including:

Fiber Cement Roofing: $5–$12 per square foot
Asphalt Shingles Cost: $3–$6 per square foot
Metal Shingles Cost: $7–$14 per square foot
Composite or Recycled Shingles: $3–$16 per square foot

Slate Roof Installation Cost

Labor costs $5 to $15 per square foot or $50 to $100 per hour.

Installing natural stone is a labor-intensive project that requires specialized knowledge, skills, and experience. Because of that, it’ll take about 10 to 12 hours to install one square of natural stone.

Synthetic slate is a little less complex to install, so for that, you’ll pay only $3 to $5 per square foot. That cost is about the same as any asphalt, metal, or composite roof installation.

Cost to Replace a Slate Roof

In addition to the $10 to $30 per square foot to install a new roof, you’ll pay $2 to $5 per square foot to tear off the old roof. Disposal fees cost extra and vary by location – contact your local landfill or contractor for specific fees. Optionally, you can rent a dumpster or have your pro do it. Dumpster rentals cost $300 to $500.

Additional Material Costs to Install a Slate Roof

Additional materials cost $2 to $5 per square foot, depending on what your roof needs. Your pro includes these costs in your quote. Important steps and materials include

Bituminous membrane
Weather shield
Copper flashings and nails
Structural reinforcement
Sheathing

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DIY Slate Roof Installation vs. Hiring a Pro

Unless you’re a professional roofer with slate installation experience, don’t DIY this project. Without proper knowledge and experience, a DIY job at best won’t work, and at worst, can cause catastrophic damage to your home.

Installing a slate roof is not as simple as installing an asphalt shingle roof, as there are several specialized tools and skills needed. It is also a tedious process that can take anywhere from three months to a year for larger, more intricate roofs.

Even among roofers, slate is a specialized skill. Not only will you want to skip the DIY choice, but you’ll also want to carefully interview and select a local slate roof installer with a portfolio of successful jobs. Always get quotes from at least three professionals, check their ratings, and carefully inspect their past work. Never hire a roofer without slate installation experience.

FAQs

What’s the difference between synthetic slate vs. asphalt?

Real slate comes from natural stone. Synthetic slate comes from various sources made to look like slate.

Type	Synthetic Slate	Natural Slate
Cost	$3 – $16 per square foot	$10 – $30 per square foot
Materials	Recycled, asphalt, metal or fiber cement	Natural stone (soft or hard)
Lifespan	20 – 50 years	50 – 200 years
Pros	Costs less to install, can be from recycled materials, lightweight (doesn’t require added structure)	Longest lasting roof, high return on investment, high-end finish
Cons	Doesn’t last as long Lower ROI	Most expensive roof material, requires reinforcing home for added weight

How long do slate roofs last?

Real slate lasts 50 to 200 years. Soft slate lasts half as long as hard slate or about 50 to 125 years.

Are slate roofs worth it?

Slate roofs are worth it for historical homes or those in areas with other slate or high-end roofing materials. You’ll receive an ROI of approximately 85%. Plus, it’s more environmentally responsible since it’s both a natural material and lasts up to 200 years. Its long lifespan keeps it out of landfills. In fact, the waste of asphalt roofs, which only last between 20 and 30 years at best, accounts for up to five percent of all landfill material in the United States.