The Odd History of Asphalt Shingle Roofs

Have you ever wondered about the history of asphalt shingle roofs? It might seem like a simple topic, but the answer is not as straightforward as it might seem.

The Beginning of Asphalt Shingle Roofs

Asphalt shingle roofs have been in use since the 19th century, but their origins can be traced back even earlier. The concept of using asphalt for roofing was first discouraged by earlyulations of roofing materials, which claimed that the heavy weight of asphalt would cause the roof to sag. However, as the use of asphalt for fill in the mid-1800s became more common, people began to experiment with using it as a roofing material also.

Early Adopters and Innovations

One of the earliest adopters of asphalt shingle roofing was a German immigrant named C.M. Thornton, who patented the first asphalt shingle roofing material in 1882. Thornton’s patented material was made by laying a base of tar and adding a layer of asphalt and gravel. Later, the gravel was replaced with a layer of rolled asphalt shingles.

In the early 20th century, asphalt shingle roofing became more widespread, and it wasn’t long before innovations began to emerge. One of the biggest innovations was the development of cold-pressed roof tiles, which made it possible to lay roof tiles without the need for hot tar.

The Golden Age of Asphalt Shingle Roofs

The 1950s and 1960s were the golden age of asphalt shingle roofs. During this time, the asphalt shingle industry boomed, and many homeowners chose this type of roofing material for its affordability and durability. However, it was during this time that some of the most significant issues with asphalt shingle roofs emerged.

One of the biggest issues was the problem of granules coming off the shingles and ending up in gutters and downspouts. This could cause blockages and other problems with the drainage system. Additionally, asphalt shingles were notorious for their tendency to curl, which could cause damage to the underlying roof structure and even the nearby trees and buildings.

The Downhill Spiral

As the problems with asphalt shingle roofs grew more widespread, the industry began to face a significant backlash. Many homeowners started to turn to alternative roofing materials, such as metal roofs or clay tiles, which were seen as more reliable and longer-lasting.

However, despite the challenges faced by the industry, asphalt shingle roofing continued to be a popular choice for homeowners. It remains one of the most widely used roofing materials in the world, with millions of houses and buildings featuring asphalt shingle roofs.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the history of asphalt shingle roofs is a fascinating tale of innovation, ingenuity, and perseverance. From its beginnings in the 1800s to its golden age in the 1950s, this type of roofing material has been a significant part of the construction industry for over a century. While the problems with asphalt shingle roofs may have dented the industry’s image in the past, these issues have since been addressed, and the demand for asphalt shingle roofing remains high.

If you’re planning on building a new house or needing to replace your old roof, asphalt shingle roofing may be the perfect choice for you. Just make sure to choose a reliable contractor who uses high-quality materials and adheres to industry standards for installation and maintenance.