Roof shingles are covers for your roof. Individual pieces material, normally square or rectangular in shape, are laid from the base of the roof in a way so that they overlap the layer beneath them. The most commonly used roof singles in the UK (and much of Europe) are ceramic tiles; a type of shingling we’re all familiar with.

There are, however, a variety of different materials used for shingling across the world. Each type of shingling boasts a range of benefits from the point of view of both aesthetics and durability. Depending on the country or area, common types of roof shingles include:

  • Wood
  • Flagstone
  • Metal
  • Slate
  • Plastic
  • Fibre Cement
  • Asphalt

We’re not going to cover each of the above in detail today. We will, however, take a deeper look at some of our favourites below.

Wood Shingles

Wood shingles have always been popular due to the accessibility of the material across the world. Indeed, back before the days of commercial roofing (and civilisation as we know it), wooden shingles were easily available and workable.

Wood shingles are still popular in certain areas of North America, Scandinavia and some areas of Europe. Any area famous for its woodland will likely feature properties with this kind of shingling because of the aesthetical value. You know the image – a log cabin in the woods or by the lake, blending in with the surrounding woodland.

Metal Shingles

Metal shingles are best suited for buildings that might be at a greater risk of fire. That being said, metal shingles can be a fantastic design choice if used in the correct way.

Just because these shingles are made of metal it doesn’t mean they must adhere to that silver, industrial, chrome-like appearance. After all, we don’t want our roofs to look like window shutters. Metal shingles are enormously flexible, and can be stamped to look like virtually any material of your choice.

Asphalt Shingles

Asphalt is commonly used for laying roads, paths and car-parks, yet it’s also a hugely popular shingle material. Similar to metal shingles, asphalt shingles are extremely flexible.

Asphalt is easy to manipulate, and as such, it can be fashioned into an array of shapes, sizes and textures. The durability of the material will depend on it’s composition and the weather of the area it is being used. Generally, asphalt is durable but will require maintenance from time to time to ensure it stays safe and secure.

AJ Scutchings and Son

We provide top quality roof restoration and maintenance across the Midlands and South East, including Bedfordshire, Hertfordshire, Stevenage and Camden. We also offer guttering installations, specialising in cast iron and aluminum guttering. To find out more, browse our site and give us a call on  07778 188 952 and we’ll be more than happy to help.

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