Shingle, also known as a flexible roof tile, is a unique product with distinct qualities that distinguish it from other sloped and gabled roof materials. Due to its numerous advantages and increasing popularity, it has earned the title of “Queen of the Roof.” Shingles are comparable to natural coverings in terms of aesthetics and are suitable for any architectural style and type of sloping roof, lasting almost 50 years. The only challenge is to select the most appropriate option from the various types, shapes, and colors available on the market.
Our team of experts can provide guidance to help distinguish between the different types of coatings.
Step 1. Understanding the Behavior of Bitumen Types in Shingle
Although each shingle manufacturer has its own production technology, all shingles share a common base material: bitumen.
However, not everyone is aware that bitumen, whether natural or artificial, can be of many types. Shingle roof coverings can have different operational properties, depending on the type of bitumen used. The most crucial property of a shingle in terms of its operational characteristics is its flexibility, which is based on oxidized bitumen. When shingles are exposed to sunlight, ultraviolet rays, and temperature changes from sloped or gabled roofs, their flexibility quickly becomes fragile and disappears. Consequently, the money spent on roofing can be wasted, as most shingles require repair or replacement.
Destruction of oxidized bitumen
It is important to note that oxidized bitumen starts to deteriorate and loses its properties even before shingles are installed on the roof. The proportion of oil in the bitumen composition decreased rapidly from the moment it was produced in the factory, and the solid properties increased. Over time, the aging process accelerates because of various natural factors that affect the roof shingle, such as sunlight, snow, rain, and sudden temperature changes. The loss of oil in bitumen leads to cracking and eventual failure.
Modifiers were added to bitumen to improve the properties of the shingles. These polymeric modifiers alter the structure of bitumen and enhance its performance. By introducing special components into bitumen, its properties become similar to those of polymers. This slows the aging process and renders the shingles highly resistant to external factors. Consequently, modern flexible shingles are not affected by the issues described earlier.
strong shingle armor
The upper layer of the shingle not only reinforces the underlying bitumen layer, but also provides a range of colors, which distinguishes this product from other roofing materials. Additionally, the upper layer acts as a protective shield, safeguarding the flexible bitumen from physical harm and reducing the impact of harmful ultraviolet rays. Hence, the stability of mineral powder color throughout its lifespan is a significant factor to consider when selecting a shingle. It is essential to note that not all manufacturers offer “color stability” guarantees, so it is crucial to pay attention to this aspect.
The rate of aging and loss of properties during operation
The shingles used ceramic basalt granules for the top layer, which were produced through a complete cycle from crushing to painting. Basalt was selected for its strength and resistance to weathering. Color is produced through a unique process of ceramicization at high temperatures (above 650 °C) using mineral pigments. This ensured that the paint was sealed and remained durable throughout the lifespan of the shingle.
Step 2. Choose the type, shape and color of the shingle
Shingles can be categorized into various geometric shapes.
Archaic – Archaic shapes are those that were popular in the past and include short rhombus, scale, “blonde”, mosaic, irregularly shaped petals with shingle texture, imitating tiles or stone. These shapes are suitable for architectural styles such as Victorian, Gothic, Colonial, Romantic or Chateau.
Geometric – Geometric shapes, on the other hand, are more modern and include square, rectangle (brick), tile, rhombus, semicircle, polymedra (honeycomb), and others. These shapes are commonly found in architectural styles, such as English, European, Mediterranean, agricultural, country, and Provence.
Volume imitation: The technique of volume imitation can produce a three-dimensional effect on the ceiling, achieved through a special laying method involving multiple overlapping layers. This style is particularly suitable for buildings with Art Nouveau, Gable, and Postmodern architectural design.
Abstract: The abstract category includes any other form or pattern that is not categorized elsewhere and lacks a specific name. Buildings with such designs are often associated with modern styles, such as health, fusion, modern, and Scandinavian styles.
Color and texture
The selection available here is incredibly diverse; the range of choices can be measured in several hundred hues and textures. Each manufacturer strives to offer various classic and unique models.
This extensive color palette is achieved through variations in the grain color, texture, and finish, depending on whether the tile surface is glossy or matte. The most popular color is red-brown, which resembles the color of ceramic and wood roofing. It is just as impressive as gray-black, which imitates aged stone and wood. Brighter colors, such as red, blue, and green, especially with a gradient effect, also attract customers looking for unconventional solutions.
An innovative option in the market for roofing solutions for sloping roofs is the use of copper or aluminum shingles as a metal covering. This approach makes metal roofs more accessible because fully sheeted copper roofs can be very expensive. The use of a flexible tile with a metal top layer is a more affordable alternative while retaining all the necessary protective properties.
Step 3. We evaluate the overall benefits of the shingle
Shingle’s uniqueness and versatility have been proven through years of experience using it for even the most complex and unconventional projects. Its benefits are well-founded and impress even the most demanding customers. It can be used on any sloping roof or gable, as well as on building facades, regardless of the angle of inclination and geometric complexity of the surface. Even round roof structures can be covered without significant deviations using shingles.
It is stable against external influences, such as humidity, wind, high and low temperatures, and extreme weather changes. In addition, during rain, it does not cause noise and removes snow avalanche. Movement is easily performed on the roof, and the condition of the shingles is easily checked.
The affordable cost of Shingle provides a great opportunity to create an attractive and natural-looking roof without breaking the bank. Additionally, shingle installation is simple and can be performed quickly, even by those without professional experience. It did not require any special tools or significant strengthening of the roof structure. Many manufacturers offer educational materials that include detailed specifications and step-by-step installation instructions that are readily available on their websites.
For accurate calculations of the required volume of materials for a sloping or gable roof, it is recommended to consult our technical specialists, even if the client does not have a project. We offer a wide range of high-quality materials for sloping or gabled roofs, including unique decorative products such as caps, spikes, waterproofing, and other roof decor elements. Our roof has a guarantee of up to 55 years, ensuring durability and long-lasting protection.
Shingles are gaining popularity each year. Modern cost-effective and wear-resistant materials are confidently leading the market and are gradually occupying pitched roofs.
