Need advice on replacing an old leaky roof

Honestly, insulation’s one of those things people overlook until the first winter after a reno - then they wish they’d gone all in. If you’re redoing the roof anyway, it’s the perfect time to check what’s up there and maybe even go for something like spray foam or rigid boards, depending on your space. As for slate, I love the character of reclaimed, but matching colors and sizes can be a real headache... plus, if you’re picky about aesthetics (like me), it can get frustrating. New slate or even some of the composite lookalikes might save you a lot of stress. Just make sure whatever you pick works with your home’s style and doesn’t mess with any existing architectural details.

As for slate, I love the character of reclaimed, but matching colors and sizes can be a real headache...

Funny thing - when we redid our roof, we went all-in on mismatched reclaimed slate, and honestly, the patchwork look grew on me. It’s not for everyone, but there’s something about the imperfections that feels genuine. Also, spray foam’s great for air sealing, but if you’re sensitive to chemicals or want a lower-carbon option, dense-pack cellulose or wood fiberboard might be worth a look. Sometimes the “old” ways still have a place.

NEED ADVICE ON REPLACING AN OLD LEAKY ROOF

I get what you mean about the reclaimed slate - matching up colors and sizes is a pain, but honestly, my wallet just couldn’t handle all-new slate anyway. Ended up with a mix, and yeah, it’s got that patchwork vibe, but now I kinda like it. It doesn’t look perfect, but at least it looks like someone actually lives here, you know?

As for insulation, I looked into spray foam but the price tag was wild. Plus, some of that chemical stuff worries me a bit. Dense-pack cellulose seemed way more doable, cost-wise and all. Not saying it’s perfect, but it’s less pricey and feels like a safer bet if you’re watching your budget or don’t want to deal with off-gassing.

Honestly, sometimes the “old” materials work just fine if you’re not aiming for fancy. Just gotta be ready for a bit more elbow grease and maybe not everything will match up perfectly... but hey, at least it won’t leak everywhere when it rains.

Honestly, sometimes the “old” materials work just fine if you’re not aiming for fancy. Just gotta be ready for a bit more elbow grease and maybe not everything will match up perfectly...

I hear you on the charm of a lived-in look - my place has its own “character” too. But I gotta say, after patching with reclaimed slate for years, I finally caved and did a full asphalt shingle roof. Not as pretty, but way less hassle and honestly, it’s held up better than I expected. Sometimes new tech does save you headaches down the line, especially if you’re tired of chasing leaks every rainy season. Still, nothing beats the look of real slate... just wish my patience (and budget) matched my taste.

I get the appeal of slate, but after going through my first winter with cedar shakes, I’m already questioning my choices. They look great, sure, but the upkeep is no joke - plus, I’m not exactly handy. I’ve been eyeing those newer composite shingles that mimic slate or wood. Not quite the real thing, but if it means fewer weekends on a ladder, I’ll take it. Sometimes “character” just means more work than I bargained for...