Question
We are building a commercial building in Northern Arizona where the winter temperatures can be quite cold (snow and below freezing) and would like to do some exterior slate. Will we have any problems with the slate being subjected to extreme weather conditions? Thanks very much.

Answer
I just saw a video on synthetic or faux slate, that would seem to be better able to handle the weather of our high desert, and installation is easier because of the uniformity of the product.

Check it out:
http://www.hgtvpro.com/hpro/pac_ctnt/text/0,2595,HPRO_20196_55073,00.html?c=483&...

I抦 pretty sure they can be modified to be used as a siding, as well, and are a composite of recycled rubber & plastic, so maybe some LEED credits are available, as well.  Some manufacturers produce them from concrete.

More general info:

http://www.moneypit.com/ask-tom-leslie/synthetic-slate-shake-shingles.html

http://www.oldhouseweb.com/how-to-advice/synthetic-slate-fabulous-fakes.shtml

Specific product information form a manufacturers:

http://www.davinciroofscapes.com/
(this company is based in Kansas, but there are others)

Hope it helps. ~M