Slate Roofing
Slate roofing requires precision and respect for traditional craftsmanship. Our team installs and restores natural slate roofs across Pennsylvania with meticulous detail and historically accurate methods.
Certifications & Awards
Pennsylvania Slate Roofing Specialists You Can Trust
Slate installation demands technical mastery. We care for slate roofing systems, so your home stays structurally sound and visually striking for decades.
Homeowners call us when they need a trusted contractor for:
- Replacing aging or failing slate systems
- Securing slipped or missing slate tiles
- Sourcing premium slate for restorations
- Fixing errors made by past installers
- Ending leaks near valleys or chimneys
- Maintaining the charm of luxury properties
- Meeting strict insurance or historic board needs
- Finding honest answers on slate roofing costs
We protect what matters with slate-specific expertise.
Our Simple, Effective Process
Roofing shouldn't be stressful. We’ve refined a three-step process to ensure a seamless experience. From protecting your property to the final inspection, we aim to do the job so effectively you won't need to call us back!
1. INSPECTION
Our specialists perform a deep evaluation of your roof. We identify hidden issues and diagnose the perfect long-term solution to keep your Pennsylvania home dry and secure through every season.
2. PREPARATION
We deliver a clear, fixed estimate. Our team helps you pick the best wood grades and warranties, ensuring the final look and performance match your specific goals and your budget perfectly.
3. EXECUTION
Our crew works around your schedule to install your roof with precision. We manage all the technical details and keep your property clean, providing a professional experience from start to finish.
What to Know Before Choosing a Slate Roof
Deciding on real slate roofing is a significant move. While it offers unmatched beauty, you must understand the unique traits of this material to ensure it fits your Pennsylvania home’s structure and your goals.
Lifespan
When installed correctly, slate is a "forever" material. Most systems easily last a century, though the specific years depend on the stone grade and the quality of the flashings and fasteners supporting the system.
Weight & Structural Considerations
Natural stone is heavy - often four times the weight of asphalt. We always ensure your home’s framing is strong enough to handle the load, so your new roof stays secure and stable for decades.
Professional Installation Is Critical
You can’t treat stone like a standard shingle. It requires specialized tools and a "feel" for the material. Improper nailing breaks tiles, and poor flashing fails prematurely. Choosing an expert slate roofing company is the only way to guarantee your investment.
Flashing Considerations
Since a slate roof should last 100+ years, so too should the fasteners and flashing system. Copper is commonly used for slate fasteners and flashing because it won’t rust or degrade the way steel can over time. It costs more upfront, but it’s the right match for a roof designed to last 100+ years.
Alternative Look-Alikes
There are synthetic products designed to closely resemble slate and reduce weight and installation cost. If you’re exploring alternatives, look into brands such as DaVinci Roofscapes and Brava Roof Tile, then compare expected lifespan, warranty terms, and long-term maintenance.
Slate is one of the most durable and prestigious roofing materials available, but it requires informed decisions and experienced installation to perform as intended.
Lifespan
A properly installed slate roof can last 75–150+ years, making it the longest-lasting residential roofing system available. Longevity depends on slate quality, flashing integrity, roof slope, and installation quality.
Weight & Structural Considerations
Slate is significantly heavier than asphalt shingles. Before installation, the roof structure must be evaluated to ensure it can support the added weight without compromising safety or performance.
Professional Installation Is Critical Slate roofing requires specialized tools, techniques, and hands-on experience. Improper installation — including incorrect nailing, spacing, or flashing — can lead to premature failures and costly repairs. Skilled craftsmanship is essential to achieving the full lifespan slate roofing is known for.
Cost of installation A slate roof will cost significantly more than almost any other type of roof system. For example, an asphalt shingle roof typically costs around $8-$12 per square foot, whereas a slate roof can cost $35-$45 per square foot.
We've helped your Pennsylvania neighbors!
For nearly 20 years, Bruce and his wife have turned to one trusted name to care for their business in Lancaster County. From small repairs to full roof replacements, they've built a relationship rooted in reliability, fast response, and attention to detail.
Their story is a testament to what long-term trust really looks like.
When Steven found a leak in his front porch overhang, he went straight to Google and found Joyland. Caleb was able to give him a full inspection and gave Steven an overview and recommendations as they were looking for a full replacement and not just a repair.
He was amazed how our crew only took one day to complete the work and cleaned up everything after they were done!
Jeff's roof wasn't in need of an immediate replacement, but he figured he would get it done before any major problems occurred.
He was amazed by our clear communication and attention to detail throughout the entire project!
PROS & CONS OF SLATE ROOFING
Is Slate Roofing the Right Choice for Your Home?
PROS
- Cost-effective for most budgets
- Widest range of colors and styles
- Easier and faster to repair than metal or slate
PROS
- Exceptional Longevity
- Timeless Curb Appeal
- Fire-Resistant & Non-Combustible
- Low Ongoing Maintenance
- Environmentally Friendly
CONS
- Higher Upfront Cost
- Heavy Weight
- Specialized Installation Required
- Longer Installation Time
- Varying product quality
With expert installation and premium natural stone, slate roofing delivers unmatched longevity while adding timeless elegance and lasting value to your home.
A Reliable Slate Roof Requires More Than Just Stone
A long-lasting stone roof relies on several synchronized parts that function as a unit to defend your property against moisture, frame issues, and environmental aging.
Key Components Include
Roof Deck / Structural Support
The wood base that bears the massive load and maintains the balance of the covering.
Ice & Water Shield
A membrane that secures sensitive spots from seepage linked to ice or heavy storms.
Underlayment System
An additional defense grade that acts as a backup shield against dampness under tiles.
Slate Tiles
Genuine stone pieces split and shaped into shingles for long term weather protection
Flashing System
Metal elements that bridge joints, seal around penetrations, & secure the system at transition points.
Ridge & Hip Cap System
The caps that seal the peaks and hips while allowing for airflow where needed.
We're Pennsylvania's #1 Roofing Company
Very professional, and listen when you talk and ask questions. Showed up as promised they took care of issues and repairs in a timely manner. Thank you so much .
Ruth Asia (Google Review )
Very professional and on time. They were able to troubleshoot the problem and make the needed repairs in one visit
Cain Austin (Google Review)
I was very happy with the results of the repair. The young man was knowledgeable, polite and personable. He took the time to explain to me what they were doing and how it fixed the problem. Each time I spoke to someone at the office they were very professional and handled things very efficiently. I would recommend this company to anyone needing roof work.
Jolene Cerullo (Google Review)
The gentleman that came out was awesome. He checked the roof where the damage was, gave an estimate and then did the repair while he was here.
Tracy Swinehart (Google Reviews)
Joyland repaired my porch flat roof. What was a straight forward job turned into replacing some water damaged wood. They didn't hesitate and got right to work. The end result looks very good. They turned my ugly porch roof into my lovely entryway again.
Nicole Lane (Google Reviews)
Benefits of Slate Roofing
Choosing slate for your residence creates a perfect balance between organic beauty and elite-level defense. To guarantee your roof endures, you must have premium stone and technical accuracy. As a specialized slate roofing company, we provide the mastery required to make your investment a success.
Enhanced Curb Appeal
Replacing a deteriorating roof enhances the look of your home and can be just what you need to truly turn your house into a home that not only protects but provides the look you love.
Increased Home Value
A roof replacement is not something a new homebuyer wants to pay for, so your home's value drops if your roof is old and in need of replacement. Replacing the roof before you sell will increase the home value.
Improved Safety
An old, damaged roof compromises the structural integrity
of your home and the safety of its occupant, whereas a new one will ensure your loved ones and belongings are safe.
Reduced Energy Cost
Modern roofing materials are more energy-efficient
than old roofing types. Reflective and Energy Star Rated roofing materials are available which means you can even recoup some of your roof costs on taxes!
Lower Insurance Premiums
Insurance companies are paying more and more attention to the age of roofs. Most insurance providers require that an old roof is replaced or coverage may be dropped. A new roof reduces insurance risk and results in lower insurance premiums.
Unmatched Appearance
Pennsylvania is home to many estates with a legacy feel. Natural stone provides a timeless, prestigious style that turns a residential house into a permanent landmark.
Longevity
A slate roofing system is renowned for its century-plus performance. When managed by a pro, these systems offer unrivaled protection with very minimal maintenance costs.
Durability
Stone is a remarkably rugged substance. It's inherently solid, withstanding icy winters and scorching summers in our local climate with the most complete, with ease.
Resale Value
A slate roof increases market value. It proves high-tier quality to buyers seeking elite performance and the security of a permanent, high-end, luxury building material.
How Much Does a Slate Roof Cost?
Understanding the cost of a slate roof helps homeowners make an informed long-term investment. Slate roofing pricing varies based on slate type, roof complexity, structural requirements, and installation craftsmanship. Below is a general overview of typical slate roofing cost ranges.
| Shingle Type | Description | |
|---|---|---|
| Natural Slate (Standard Grade) | Durable natural stone slate offering classic appearance and long-term performance. | $20 – $30 per square foot |
| Premium / Imported Slate | High-end slate with enhanced color consistency and extended lifespan. | $30 – $45 per square foot |
| Synthetic Slate (Alternative Option) | Lightweight slate-look material designed to replicate natural slate at a lower cost. | $12 – $20 per square foot |
For detailed pricing by home size, visit our Residential Roof Replacement Pricing page.
Frequently Asked Questions - Slate Roofing
How long does a slate roof last?
If installed by specialists, a slate roof is expected to last between 100 and 200 years. The ultimate lifespan depends on the geological grade of the stone and the use of non-corrosive fasteners. Because stone is virtually indestructible, it often outlives the house itself, provided the technical installation was sound.
Why are specialized slate roofing contractors necessary?
Depends on your values. While slate has a significantly higher upfront cost (3-5 times more than asphalt shingles), it offers exceptional long-term value. Many homeowners choose slate because it reduces future replacement costs, increases property value, and provides unmatched durability and timeless curb appeal. But with that increase in longevity and appeal also comes the need for stellar installation to ensure the system actually performs and lasts as expected.
Can my home support the weight of a slate roof?
Slate is much heavier than asphalt shingles, so a structural evaluation is required before installation. Most well-built homes can be reinforced if needed, but this assessment ensures safety and long-term performance.
Does slate roofing require a lot of maintenance?
Slate roofs are considered low-maintenance. If a slate roof has been correctly installed, it should not need to be touched for years, possibly even 50 years or more. Most times, what fails on a slate roof is not the material itself, but rather the fasteners. If corrosive fasteners were used to install the slate, they will eventually rust and the slate pieces will begin to loosen and slide out of place.
Can individual slate tiles be repaired or replaced?
Yes. One of slate’s advantages is that individual tiles can often be repaired or replaced without disturbing the entire roof, as long as the system was installed correctly. This requires expertise and care, as slate is a brittle material, and fasteners should not be driven through any part of the exposed slate. Therefore, special slate repair kits must be used to both properly secure the new piece, and prevent damage to the surrounding roof.
Is slate roofing fire resistant?
Natural slate is fire-resistant and non-combustible, making it an excellent option for fire safety and compliance with building codes.
How much does a slate roof cost in Pennsylvania?
Generally, a slate roof will cost between $35 and $50 per square foot, installed. This variance is due to the various quality and types of slate available, and is also based on roof variables such as size, pitch, complexity, and more.
There are slate alternatives available that mimic the look of real slate at a lower cost.
Does slate roofing come in different colors?
Yes, various colors of slate are available. Slate quarries in Pennsylvania and Virgina usually produce a black slate, whereas areas of Vermont and New York have natural slate in hues of blue, green, purple, and grey. These can be mixed and matched to achieve a unique, blended slate roof with beautiful coloring.
Does Joyland Offer Financing?
Absolutely!
Finance projects up to $25,000*
No-Interest plans for qualifying customers
Terms from 3 to 60 months*
APR from 0% to 35.9%*
No hidden fees or compounding interest
Joyland Roofing Is a Leading Lancaster Roofing Company
Since 1991, we’ve been southeastern Pennsylvania’s trusted source for roof repairs and installations. Whatever services you need, we will review your options and provide a detailed quote and a realistic timeline so you know what to expect. Contact us today for your free, no-obligation estimate and inspection from one of our roofing experts.
Office Location
360 West Bainbridge Street
Elizabethtown, Pennsylvania 17022
Contact Information
Phone: 717-744-0987
Email: sales@joylandroofing.com
Hours: 7am-4pm Monday through Friday.
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