KCG Roofing and Carpentry deals with all types of roofs, from metal roofs and composite shingle roofing to flat roofs or highly pitched roofs. Asphalt roofing tiles is a relatively new roof shingle. You will notice that houses built before 1900 have roofs made from ceramic or wood shakes. This alternative roofing option has been extremely popular over the past century due to the variety of styles, colors and textures available. They are reliable, cost-effective, and easy to keep clean. Let’s go back in time and look at the history of asphalt roofing.
The Beginning and a Little Before
Wood shingles were popular before asphalt shingles. However, they were dangerous for fire and were very expensive. Henry Reynolds came up with an amazing invention in 1901: asphalt shingles. These shingles were first made from organic materials such as cotton rags or jute. Later, more durable and stronger materials were introduced. By 1939, asphalt shingles were used throughout the United States. 11 million squares had been produced. This rapid popularity was due to the U.S. National Board of Fire Underwriters’ campaign against wood shingles on roofs.
Research and Development
There is no perfect asphalt shingle. There were many improvements made to the product. The first shingles were hand cut into small 8-by-16″ pieces. These sheets were then cut by hand into small 8″x16″ pieces. A dozen years later, the roller-dies were used for cutting these sheets into 12.5″x20″. The standard size of shingles was 12″x36″ and had a three-tab layout. Not only were the shingles’ shapes and sizes changing, but so was their composition. Because of its high cost, the industry also focused on the composition and design of shingles.
Pine tar was eventually replaced by coal tar. In the 1940s, celluloid-based felts were introduced to replace cotton as the “rag” felt. In the 1950s, self-sealing adhesives were introduced that could be manually applied. These adhesives were able to combat wind damage caused by shingles. During this period, 3/4-inch staples were also introduced. Fiberglass mat bases were invented in the 1960s. The lightweight, flexible fiberglass mat bases were introduced in the 1960s. However, they had limited protection against hail and wind damage.
They remained the most popular product on the market. It was a good thing that the Asphalt Manufacturers association created a task force to concentrate on wind-resistance research during the 1990s.
Shingles Replaced, Repaired, or Installed
You can call KCG Roofing and Carpentry to schedule a flexible appointment or if you need to have a different type of roof shingles. We are able to handle all types of roofs, including metal and composite roofs as well as flat and high pitched roofs. KCG Roofing and Carpentry can help you get a consultation.
This post was written by a roofing professional at KCG Roofing. KCG Roofing is a premier roofing contractor that does Tampa roof repair! KCG Roofing has the experience and expertise to replace or repair your roof with quality materials and excellent craftsmanship. All our roofs are backed by a 15-year leak-free guarantee, the highest in the industry. We have been family-owned and operated for over 40 years.