Richmond upon Thames has a huge number of Victorian, Edwardian and Georgian homes. Many of these were originally roofed in natural slate. When it’s time to repair or replace one of these roofs, the choice between slate and tile is as much about character as it is about cost.
Natural slate
Natural slate is the traditional choice for period roofs in this part of London, and for good reason. It’s thin, elegant, and can last well over 100 years when properly cared for. It’s also the material most likely to be required, rather than just preferred, on a listed building or within a conservation area.
That’s because it matches the roof the property was originally built with. The trade-off is cost. Slate is more expensive than tile, both to buy and to install, since it needs skilled fitting.
Concrete and clay tile
Concrete tile is the cheapest pitched roofing option, and it works well. It has a typical lifespan of 40–60 years. Clay tile sits between concrete and slate on both cost and look.
It has a slightly more traditional style that suits some period streets better than concrete does. For a property outside a conservation area, either can be a sensible, low-cost choice.
Why conservation areas change the calculation
A large part of Richmond upon Thames sits within a conservation area. The council’s planning guidance is clear that changes to roofing materials visible from the street usually need permission. In practice, this often means a like-for-like slate replacement is the simplest route.
Switching to a different material, however, can trigger a planning application. Our guide to roofing in a conservation area explains what this means, and it’s always worth checking before you commit to a material.
Making the decision
If your home already has a slate roof and sits on a conservation-area street, matching it like-for-like is usually the simplest and safest route. That’s true both for planning and for kerb appeal. If you’re outside a conservation area and cost is the main driver, tile remains a perfectly sound choice. See our 2026 new roof cost guide for real figures either way.
We work with both slate and tile across Richmond upon Thames, Teddington and St Margarets. We’ll always tell you honestly which one suits your specific property and street.
Related reading
- Fascias, Soffits & Guttering: A Homeowner’s Guide to Your Roofline
- Chimney Repairs, Re-Pointing and Removal Explained
- Velux & Roof Windows: Costs, Planning and Installation
- Storm Damage to Your Roof: What to Do and How Insurance Works
- Choosing a Trustworthy Roofer in South West London: 10 Questions to Ask
- Roofing in a Conservation Area: Rules for Richmond, Twickenham & St Margarets
- How Much Does a New Roof Cost in Twickenham & Richmond? (2026 Price Guide)
- Flat Roof Repair vs Replacement: Which Do You Need?