Baltimore Roofing

Unlike most roofing contractors, we specialize in slate, clay-tile, and custom copper solutions.

If you’re in need of slate roof repair, a new clay-tile roof, or an inspection of your original copper gutters, or more, contact The Durable Slate Company. Estimates are free for property owners within our service areas (see disclaimer below). Our estimators never work on commission and will make recommendations that are for the good of your roof, not their own pocket-books. We insist on transparency and education to help our customers understand the work needed and the associated costs.

Our approach to business is as timeless as our roofs: Honest, straight forward, and tailored to your needs and the needs of your roof.

The men and women of The Durable Slate Company come from areas local to Baltimore, and we’re in touch with the unique history and needs of the city. 

Our goal is to provide you with the best historic roofing experience, beginning with our initial estimate to the final quality inspection. We honor tradition and take pride in our work. Slate is our art and we want you to love it as much as we do.

Beyond Baltimore, you might spot one of our trademark red trucks near Towson, Pikesville, Owings Mills, Silver Spring, Potomac, Takoma Park, Chevy Chase, Annapolis, and beyond.

Slate roofed buildings are a common sight in Baltimore, Maryland. These structures, with their distinctive texture, can be found throughout the city, adding to its charm and character.

Slate is a natural stone that has been used as a roofing material for centuries. It is made up of layers of shale that have been compressed with heat and pressure over time, resulting in a strong and durable material that is resistant to fire, rot, and insects. This makes it an excellent choice for roofing, as it can withstand harsh weather conditions and last for many decades or even centuries with minimal maintenance.

One of the most famous examples of a slate roofed building in Baltimore is the Washington Monument. Located in Mount Vernon Place, this iconic structure was completed in 1829 and is the first public monument dedicated to George Washington. The roof is Welsh slate, which is known for its high quality and durability.

Another notable slate roofed building in Baltimore is the Bromo Seltzer Tower. Located in the heart of downtown, this historic building was completed in 1911 and was once the tallest building in the city. Its roof is made of a mixture of slate and copper, giving it a unique and eye-catching appearance.

In addition to these well-known buildings, there are many other slate roofed structures throughout Baltimore. These include churches, schools, homes, and other buildings that contribute to the city's rich architectural heritage.

One of the benefits of using slate as a roofing material is its longevity. When properly installed and maintained, a slate roof can last for 100 years or more. This means that it can outlast other types of roofing materials, such as asphalt shingles, which typically need to be replaced every 20 years.

Another advantage of slate is its aesthetic appeal. The natural beauty of slate can add character and charm to any building, and its unique color and texture can complement a wide range of architectural styles.

In addition to its durability and aesthetic appeal, slate is also a sustainable roofing material. It is made from natural stone, so it is not a petroleum-based product like asphalt shingles. It is also recyclable and can be reused if a building is demolished or renovated.

Despite its many advantages, slate roofing does have some drawbacks. One of the main challenges is its weight. Slate is a heavy material, so buildings need to have a strong roof structure to support it. This can be a concern for buildings that were not designed to carry the weight of a slate roof.

Moreover, slate can be expensive to install and maintain. It requires specialized skills and tools to cut and install the tiles, and repairs can be costly if done improperly.

Despite these challenges, slate roofing remains a popular choice in Baltimore and other cities. Its durability, aesthetic appeal, and sustainability make it a worthwhile investment for many building owners. As a result, slate roofed buildings will continue to be a distinctive and cherished part of Baltimore's landscape for years to come.

1. Baltimore Basilica (1806): This historic basilica is the first Catholic cathedral built in the United States. It is one of the most significant buildings in Baltimore, with its stunning facade and classic slate roof.

2. Garrett-Jacobs Mansion (1868): This grand mansion is the former home of the Garrett family, one of Baltimore’s most prominent families during the 19th century. It is a stately and impressive building with an elegant slate roof.

3. Flag House (1831): This historic home is an important symbol of the Revolutionary War. It is an attractive building with a slate roof and a large American Flag flying from the top.

4. Washington Monument (1815): This iconic monument stands at the center of Baltimore and is the tallest monument in the United States. Its impressive height and stately slate roof make it a symbol of the city.

5. Enoch Pratt Free Library (1886): This beautiful library is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike. Its Gothic Revival architecture and slate roof make it a stunning sight.

6. Bromo Seltzer Arts Tower (1911): This 15-story building was once the tallest building in Baltimore. It is an attractive building with a unique clock tower and a slate roof.

7. Baltimore City Hall (1867): This grand building is the home of the Mayor and City Council of Baltimore. It is an impressive building with a slate roof and a large dome.

8. Peabody Institute (1857): This impressive building is the home of the Baltimore Symphony Orchestra and the Conservatory of Music. It is a beautiful building with a slate roof.

9. Baltimore Museum of Art (1914): This museum is home to a large collection of art and is one of the most visited art museums in the United States. It has an impressive slate roof.

10. Wyman Park Building (1913): This building is a popular destination for students and visitors of Johns Hopkins University. It is an attractive building with a slate roof.

We are full service residential roofing contractors and have delivered specialty slate services for high end homes across the United States. The Durable Slate Company specializes in:

Slate Roof Repair & Installation,
Clay-Roofing Tile Repair & Installation,
Copper Gutter Repair & Installation,
Metal & Copper Roof Repair & Installation,
Historic Roofing Consultations,
Ornamental Roofing & Metal Work,
Including Spires, Steeples, and more.
Besides residential, we frequently work with

Schools, universities, and other educational facilities;
Churches, temples, synagogues and mosques;
Hospitals;
And Federal, state and local government facilities and governmental service agencies.

We have completed thousands of projects of all shapes and sizes throughout the United States and abroad. Alongside our sister company, Durable Restoration, we have been privileged to repair and preserve some of the world’s finest architecture, be they classic slate roofs in Homeland or Roland Park, the Bromo Seltzer Arts Tower, or new copper gutters for your neighbor down the street. We bring the same quality of service to every project, no matter the size.