The lasting luxury of slate and tile.

A well-constructed slate or tile roof should last more than 50 years. Neth & Son knows exactly what it takes to make your roof as durable as it is beautiful. Special underlayment, fasteners and metal flashing made from lead or copper are required. These products need very little maintenance, and because the material is fireproof, your insurance costs may be less.

Tile can weigh between 800 to 1600 pounds per square installed. (A square is a 10-foot by 10-foot area). Slate can weight between 500 to 3600 pounds per square depending on the thickness and head lap. In comparison, most asphalt shingles weigh between 200 to 300 pounds per square. Therefore, before Neth & Son will install a slate or tile roof, your building frame must be inspected and approved to withstand the heavy load.

Tile is made from concrete or clay, and comes in a variety of shapes, sizes and colors. Clay tile is also available glazed or unglazed. Some tile is installed over solid sheathing; other title is installed over wood battens. Mortar is used at the ridges and drip edge to provide a watertight seal and to protect the tile from high winds.

Slate is quarried in Maine, Maryland, Pennsylvania, Vermont and Virginia. Slates are manufactured by splitting slate blocks into standard thicknesses of 3/16, 1/4, 3/8, 1/2, 3/4, 1, 1 1/4, 1 1/2, 1 3/4, and 2 inches. Slate comes in a wide range of attractive textures and colors including black, green, purple and red.