Slate Roofing in Essex County, NJ

Natural slate is the crown jewel of roofing materials, offering a lifespan measured in centuries and an elegance that no synthetic material can truly replicate. Essex County is home to many historic properties where original slate roofs from the early 1900s still perform beautifully, and R&E Roofing has the specialized expertise to maintain, repair, and install these exceptional roof systems.

Working with slate requires a fundamentally different skill set than standard roofing. Each slate tile must be individually sized and fitted, with proper head lap, side lap, and exposure for the specific slate grade and roof pitch. Nail placement must be precise to avoid cracking the stone, and flashing details at valleys, chimneys, and dormers require hand-crafted copper or stainless steel work that integrates seamlessly with the slate coursing.

We source our slate from premier quarries in Vermont, Pennsylvania, and Virginia, each producing stone with distinct color ranges, thicknesses, and longevity characteristics. Vermont unfading green and gray slates can last 150+ years, while softer varieties offer 75-100 year lifespans at lower cost points. We also install synthetic slate products for homeowners who want the appearance of natural stone with reduced weight and cost.

For existing slate roofs, our restoration services include selective replacement of damaged or missing tiles with salvaged or new slate matched to the original, reflashing with appropriate metals, and structural reinforcement where needed. We maintain relationships with salvage dealers across the northeast to source matching slate for repairs on older installations. Every restoration preserves both the beauty and the historic integrity of your home.