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High-quality photo of a recently completed natural slate roof on a Joliet home, showcasing the rich colors and textures of slate tiles

Joliet Natural Slate Roofing Contractor

Natural Slate Roofing

Timeless elegance and unmatched durability for your luxury home

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Natural Slate Pros & Cons

  • Pros of Natural Slate
    Roofing

    • Fire-Resistant: No need to worry about fire hazards. Slate has your home covered — literally.
    • Lifespan of Over 100 Years: Your roof will last a lifetime, and then some. Talk about long-term value.
    • Eco-Friendly & Recyclable: Slate is a natural material, which means it’s as kind to the planet as it is to your home.
    • Boosts Property Value: There’s no denying it — homes with slate roofs stand out and command higher prices.

  • Cons of Natural Slate
    Roofing

    • Brittle: Slate is durable, but it can crack if mishandled or walked on.
    • Heavy: You’ll need proper structural support to handle the weight of slate tiles.
    • Specialized Installation Required: Not every contractor can handle slate. It requires real expertise — which is where we come in.

Please note:
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It’s important to remember that no roofing material is perfect, but with the right care and professional installation, slate is a top-tier choice that offers beauty and performance for years to come.

Types of Natural Slate

  • About GME Gable Roofs

    Standard Slate

    The classic choice. Standard slate tiles bring a timeless, uniform look to your roof. They’re versatile, coming in a variety of sizes and thicknesses to complement any architectural style. If you’re looking for that iconic slate roof, this is it.

  • Explore GME Hip Roofs

    Textured Slate

    Want a little more character? Textured slate offers a rugged, natural surface that gives your roof a rustic charm. Perfect if you’re going for that weathered, organic aesthetic that looks like it’s been there forever — just better.

  • Explore GME Flat Roof

    Graduated Slate

    For a more traditional, old-world vibe, graduated slate is your go-to. This method uses larger, thicker slates at the bottom of your roof, gradually getting smaller as they climb toward the ridge. It’s a distinctive look often seen on historic buildings, adding a touch of heritage to your home.

Roof Types Natural Slate Fits Best

Natural slate isn’t just about durability — it’s about elevating your home’s entire look. Here’s where it works best:

  • About GME Gable Roofs

    Steep Slope Roofs

    Why it works:
    The sharp pitch is perfect for slate’s natural water-shedding abilities, and it highlights the beauty of each individual tile.

    Best suited for:
    Victorian, Tudor, and Gothic Revival homes — where drama and elegance go hand in hand.

  • Explore GME Hip Roofs

    Mansard Roofs

    Why it works:
    Mansard roofs give you plenty of surface area to flaunt that slate elegance. The dual-slope design creates a sophisticated, luxurious effect.

    Best suited for:
    French-inspired architecture and upscale urban homes looking to make a statement.

  • Explore GME Mansard Roof

    Gable Roofs

    Why it works:
    Simple yet classic. Gable roofs let the natural beauty of slate take center stage without any distractions.

    Best suited for:
    Colonial, Cape Cod, and traditional homes — classic American styles with an added touch of luxury.

  • Explore GME Flat Roof

    Hipped Roofs

    Why it works:
    With consistent slopes on all sides, hipped roofs create a seamless, cohesive look that slate tiles enhance beautifully.
    ‍
    Best suited for:
    Mediterranean, Prairie, and French Country homes — where elegance meets laid-back style.

  • Explore GME Combination Roofs

    Combination Roofs

    Why it works:
    Got a complex roof design? No problem. Slate tiles can be used across different roof types within one structure, providing a luxurious, unified look.

    Best suited for:
    Custom-built luxury homes with multiple roof styles, where only the best will do.

Natural Slate Grades We Often Use on Our Projects

Not all slate is created equal, and the grade you choose can make all the difference in both appearance and performance. Here are the most popular options for homes in Joliet:

Additional Materials and Services

  • Underlayment
    The unsung hero of your roof. This layer, made from high-quality synthetic materials or heavy-duty felt, goes beneath your slate tiles to provide extra waterproofing and protection against moisture. It’s a key component for longevity.
  • Copper Flashing
    Premium copper flashing is installed at roof intersections, valleys, and around chimneys or vents to prevent water penetration. Copper is the preferred material for slate roofs due to its durability and aesthetic appeal, ensuring long-lasting protection against leaks, especially in complex roof designs.
  • Ventilation
    A well-ventilated attic is crucial for the long-term health of your slate roof. We design ventilation systems that keep air flowing and moisture in check, preventing damage to both the tiles and your roof’s structure.
  • Gutters and Downspouts
    Don’t forget about gutters! They play a critical role in directing water away from your home. We offer high-capacity gutter systems designed to handle the runoff from slate roofs, keeping your foundation and landscaping safe from water damage.

Why Choose Greater Midwest Exteriors for Your Natural Slate Roofing Project

Choosing Greater Midwest Exteriors for your natural slate roofing project means embracing timeless elegance and unparalleled durability. Our team excels in transforming Joliet homes with this premium roofing material, offering a perfect blend of historic charm and modern performance.

So, Why Choose Us?

  1. Top-Notch Quality

    We source our slate from the most reputable quarries in the world, ensuring every tile meets strict standards for strength, color consistency, and longevity.

  2. Artisan Craftsmanship

    Our experienced team of slate roofing experts blends traditional techniques with modern advancements. Every installation is treated like a legacy project designed to endure for generations.

  3. Built for Joliet's Weather

    We know Joliet’s weather can be unpredictable. That’s why we’ve fine-tuned our installation methods to handle everything from blistering summers to freezing winters.

  4. Historic Home Preservation

    Got a historic Joliet home? We specialize in restoring slate roofs, preserving architectural integrity while adding modern performance upgrades.

  5. Tailored to Your Style

    Your home is unique, and so is our approach. We work closely with you to choose the right grade, cut, and pattern of slate to match your home’s architecture and your personal taste.

  6. Efficient and Precise

    While slate roofing is a premium choice, we don’t believe in dragging out the process. Most of our projects are completed within 10 to 14 days, without cutting any corners.

  7. Generational Care

    A slate roof can last over 100 years with the right care. We offer specialized maintenance plans that help keep your roof looking and performing at its best for decades to come.
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What Joliet Homeowners Say About Us

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Curious About Natural Slate Roofing? Let's Talk.

Not sure if slate is the right choice for your home? We’re here to help. Our team offers no-obligation consultations and estimates to make sure you have all the information you need.

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Locations
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We Serve Joliet and Beyond

Centrally located in Shorewood, we proudly serve Joliet, Will County, and surrounding areas within a 100-mile radius.

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FAQ

FAQs About Natural Slate Roofing

  • Can a natural slate roof handle Joliet’s severe weather?

    Absolutely. Natural slate is one of the most durable roofing materials available, capable of withstanding extreme weather conditions, including heavy snow, hail, and high winds which are common in the Joliet area. When properly installed by our expert team, a natural slate roof provides superior protection for your home, ensuring it stays safe and secure, no matter what Mother Nature throws your way.

  • What's the average cost of natural slate roof installation in the Joliet area?

    The cost of a natural slate roof can vary depending on your roof's size, complexity, and the specific grade of slate you choose. On average, Joliet homeowners can expect to invest between $20,000 and $50,000 or more for a complete natural slate roof installation. While the upfront cost is higher compared to other roofing materials, the exceptional longevity and added value to your home make it a worthwhile investment that pays off in the long run.

  • Can you install natural slate over my existing roof?

    Due to the significant weight and unique installation requirements of natural slate, we generally recommend a complete tear-off of your existing roof. Additionally, reinforcing the roof structure may be necessary to ensure proper installation and optimal performance. This approach guarantees that your new slate roof will be securely installed and will deliver the durability and elegance that slate is known for.

    Learn More about GME roof replacement

  • How do I maintain my natural slate roof?

    The good news is that natural slate requires minimal maintenance. However, to ensure your roof maintains its beauty and functionality over time, we recommend regular inspections, prompt repairs of any damaged tiles, and keeping your roof free of debris, such as leaves or branches. We offer specialized maintenance plans tailored specifically for natural slate roofs, which can help preserve their integrity and extend their lifespan.

  • Is natural slate energy-efficient?

    Yes, natural slate roofs are highly energy-efficient. The density and thermal mass of slate help regulate indoor temperatures, keeping your home cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter. This natural insulating property can contribute to lower energy costs for your Joliet home, making it an environmentally friendly and cost-effective choice in the long term.

  • How does natural slate compare to other roofing materials like wood shakes or metal roofs?

    Natural slate stands head and shoulders above many other roofing materials, especially when it comes to longevity and curb appeal. Unlike wood shakes, slate doesn’t have to worry about mold, mildew, or rot creeping in. And compared to metal roofs, slate brings a more timeless and luxurious look to your home. While the upfront cost may be higher than wood or metal, slate's exceptional durability and low maintenance needs often make it the smarter, more cost-effective choice for Joliet homeowners over the long haul.