Thanks for all the insights!

I have a few questions regarding your suggestions:

> Instead of slate..use aluminum shingles

- Is this purely a question of price?

> Use Fiberglass windows. The best ones will outlast any hardwood.

- Wouldn't long term exposure of the fiberglass windows to the sun weaken the fiberglass (this effect seems to be called "Fiber Blooming")?

Finally, do you have any links to share regarding these topics for people wanting to build a house but without the technical background?