Lifetime slate - how many years will serve the material ?

Types slate

When people talk about this material, for some reason in my head immediately comes asbestos «Soviet slate."He usually has a gray color and all its nuances.Produce it by molding a mixture of water, Portland cement and asbestos.This material is very practical and inexpensive, because it is used in many CIS countries.There is, however a view that the slate is not suitable for complex roofs, and it contained asbestos is harmful to health.

Then again, many manufacturers claim that a dense layer of paint on the roof surface to some extent it removes harmful effects as it creates a kind of film.In general, the question is very controversial.It is known more simply that Europe abandoned this type of material is due to its insecurity.Now produce other types of slate, made from mineral, plant components.An example is the so-called soft slate .

It is durable and light enough building material, which is produced from mineral fibers impregnated with bitumen as follow, and on the outside cover of high-quality paint.Roof with him has an aesthetically attractive appearance.Another type of material is a metal slate

.It is made of galvanized steel.Leaves give a kind of a wavy shape.Usually used for large production facilities.

Properties slate: the pros and cons

Considering a typical asbestos slate can be distinguished in it both positive and negative characteristics.One of the advantages are the following:

• has excellent electrical insulation properties;
• durability (service life of slate is about 30-40 years old);
• Fire protection and full fire safety;
• Quiet during weather events (rain, hail), in contrast to the metal;
• Easy handling and maintenance;
• relative cheapness compared to other roofing materials;
• not corrode;

addition to the advantages of this slate has a number of drawbacks.Firstly, it is quite heavy stuff.Its weight is 1.26 kg / sheet, a slate density is 1.6 g / cc.Therefore, setting his own hands on the roof requires a certain skill and physical strength.Secondly, the brittle material.That is why it is important to carefully carry it, and in any case not to drop during transportation.

Third, over time, on the asbestos slate begins to grow moss.However, this disadvantage can be easily eliminated.It is sufficient to apply the composition of the soil and cover them to the surface of the roof.Also, no harm will be to strengthen the entire roof waterproofing.Well, the last and very important minus - is the relative insecurity of the material due to the fact that the composition of the slate includes asbestos, which has a negative impact on human health.

How harmful asbestos slate?

To talk about his "hazard" let's take a closer look what is the composition of the material.Made it out of chrysotile asbestos, which is getting into the human body it causes a variety of gastrointestinal disorders.According to the "severity" of his experts identified a group of materials with little harm to human health.However, again, in Europe, it is completely forbidden to use for roofing.

also happen this slate made of amphibole asbestos.Previously it was used in the EU countries, but later also banned.This is due to the fact that the component (amphibole asbestos) is a carcinogen.Inhalation of its small fibers may eventually develop mesothelioma, a cancer of the larynx, lung, and diseases associated with the ovaries.

Buy this stuff or not, it's your choice.Only recall in modern production are much more environmentally friendly types of slate, which in no way inferior in performance.