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The History of Roofing
Earliest Roofing
The history of roofing and how technology has evolved is incredible. Roofs were initially made out of whatever material was available at the time. Archeological evidence shows that roofs were made from animal skin, mud, grass, and straw. Some ancient cultures had elaborate roof designs, including domes and arches. Roofs were also used for protection against the elements, especially rain and snow.
Roofing Styles Trends and History
In ancient times, homes were made from wood, mud, grass, and other natural materials. These shelters had flat roofs, and the only protection against rain and snow came from the walls’ thickness and the roof’s height. Over time, people started using straw, clay, and stone to create more durable structures. Houses became more prominent and taller, and the roofs grew higher and sturdier. Eventually, roofs became covered in shingles, tiles, slate, and metal. Roofs became more complex and ornate and eventually evolved into the modern pitched roof.
Roofs were initially designed to keep out rain and snow. Over time, however, they evolved to protect against wind, heat, and fire. Roofs were also modified to increase the amount of usable space. For example, adding dormers increased the amount of functional living area. Slates, tiles, and wood shingles were replaced with asphalt, concrete, and metal panels.
In the 12th century, King John issued a proclamation that required all houses to be built with fireproof materials. Over the next few centuries, many different roofs were invented, including slate, copper, lead, asbestos, and tile. Clay tile roofing was the first mass-produced type of roofing material. Tiles were made out of clay and then baked at high temperatures. These tiles could last for hundreds of years if properly maintained. Concrete tile roofing was invented 100 years after clay tile roofing. Concrete tiles were made using cement and sand and could last thousands of years.
In the early years of American settlement, roofs were built using whatever materials were available and whatever the weather dictated. As time went on, new technologies allowed many different roofing styles to be utilized anywhere in America. However, New Englanders tend not to stray far from their classic styles and prefer the classics.
Current Popular Roofing Materials
Roofs are an essential part of any house. They protect your family from the elements, provide shelter from rain and snow, and add value to your property. Roofs also help keep you cool during hot summer days and warm during cold winter nights. Many different roofs exist, including asphalt shingle, metal, tile, slate, wood shake, and composite. Each type has its benefits and drawbacks, requiring a unique installation approach.
History of Roofing Materials in America
Clay roofs were first used in Europe during the 17th century. They were made out of clay and could last for hundreds of years. However, they weren’t very fireproof and had to be replaced frequently. Fireproof materials like slate and copper were introduced later. Today, clay tiles are still used in places like Spain and Greece.
Repairing roofs with new tiles requires special tools and techniques. Roofers must first remove all existing tiles before installing new ones. A roofer will cut out the old tiles using a saw, hammer, or other tools. After removing the old tile, the roofer will apply a sealant to prevent water damage. Next, the roofer will install the new tiles, keeping them aligned properly. Finally, the roofer will add any necessary finishing touches.
Slate roofs were first introduced in America in the early 1800s when settlers began using them to replace the heavy wooden shingle roofs that had become commonplace. However, slates were expensive to import and were not widely available until the 19th century. By the time the United States became an industrial nation, slate was still very rare. The first primary commercial quarry in the U.S. opened near Pittsburgh in 1818. The Pennsylvania Railroad helped increase the supply of slate by providing access to the quarries. The railroad also allowed slate to be transported to markets throughout the country. The invention of the steam engine made transporting large quantities of slate economically feasible. As a result, slate became a popular choice for roofing in the Northeast and Midwest. In addition to its durability and beauty, slate roofs can withstand high winds and snow loads.
Slate is a durable stone resistant to heat, moisture, and acids. It is also easy to cut and shape, making it ideal for roofing tiles. Slate is often found in red, green, purple, or gray tones. It is often used in Gothic and mansard-style architecture. Slate roofs were prevalent during the Victorian era, especially in England.
In the restoration, the drainage surrounding a dormer was improved with careful placement of modern metal flashing. The roof was covered with an asphalt felt paper membrane, then coated with a water-repellent acrylic emulsion. A layer of tar paper was added to protect the membrane from ultraviolet light damage. The original shingles were removed and replaced with a similar type of shingle.
Wooden roofs were replaced with more durable materials in cities, but this wasn’t a big issue in rural areas. In many Victorian country homes, the practice of wood siding survived the technological advances of steel roofing in the 19th century. The Colonial Revival and the Bungalow Styles in the 20th century assured wood-shingled roofs a place as one of the most fashionable domestic roofing.
Galvanized sheet metal shingles imitating pantile roofs became popular during the late 1800s and early 1900s. These shingles were made out of galvanized steel and had an appearance similar to that of real pantiles. However, galvanized sheet metal shingled roofs did not last nearly as long as entire pantile roofs. As a result, many homeowners opted for the cheaper option of asphalt shingles instead.
In the United States, copper roofing became widely used during the 19th century. Copper was chosen because it was inexpensive, easy to install, fireproof, and durable. It also had an attractive appearance. Standing seam copper was first installed at Christ Church Cathedral in Philadelphia in 1727. Flat-seam copper was used on many dome and cupola roofs. Copper sheets were usually imported from England until the late 18th century when facilities for rolling sheet metal were developed in the United States.
In 1793, Robert Morris began producing sheet iron at his Trenton Rolling Mill. He made the roof of his house in Philadelphia out of sheet iron and used it to replace the roof of Nassau Hall at Princeton University. His son, John, continued the business after his father died in 1806. By 1816, the company employed 300 workers and sold its products throughout the United States and Europe.
In 1834, the American architect William Strutland proposed corrugated metal roofing to cover his design for Market Square in Philadelphia. He also suggested using the material to cover railroad cars. By 1835, he had convinced the city council to allow him to install the roofs. His first project was the Pennsylvania Railroad depot at 30th Street Station. The following year, he installed a corrugated roof on the State House in Harrisburg. In 1836, he built the first corrugated steel house in America.
Zinc is an inexpensive alternative to copper, previously used to coat steel. In 1837, French chemists discovered that adding zinc to steel protected it from corrosion. By the 1860s, zinc had become widely used to prevent rusting. Galvanization became widespread during the 19th century, especially after the invention of the Bessemer converter. Steel mills began using the technique to protect their machinery. Railroads also adopted it because it made trains easier to maintain. Today, zinc is still used to protect steel, though other metals like aluminum and stainless steel are often preferred.
Tin roofs are still used today, especially in Europe, but they aren’t prevalent in North America. They’re usually found on older buildings, like churches, barns, and warehouses. They’re also used on homes built before the 1970s.
Tin roofs were prevalent until the early 1900s, when steel became cheaper and easier to install. Steel roofs were also lighter and less expensive to maintain. As a result, tin roofs were phased out in favor of steel. However, tin roofs remain in many older homes today.
Asphalt shingles and roll roofing were used in homes during the early 1900s. Many asphalt, aluminum, stainless steel, and galvanized steel roofs may soon have historical values. Awareness of these and many other traditions of roofing material and their detailing will contribute toward more sensitive preservation treatments.
Common Misconceptions About Conventional Roofing Materials and Longevity
Most manufacturers of conventional roofing products claim that their materials will last for decades. However, this may not be true if the material is exposed to the elements. A typical asphalt shingle roof lasts around 15 years before it needs replacing. If you live in an area with extreme weather conditions, your roof could need replacement sooner.
Tile roofing materials are made of clay and slate, durable, low cost, and easy to install. Clay tile roofs are fire resistant and can last 50 years or longer. Slate tile roofs are very durable and can last 100 years or longer. Both tile roofs are susceptible to water damage, however, and must be repaired or replaced periodically. Wood shake roofs are not fireproof and will burn if exposed to fire. They are also vulnerable to rot and mold. Asphalt shingle roofs are less expensive than other roofing options but are not suitable for all climates. They are also susceptible to water damage and rot.
Conclusion
Roofs are an essential element of any building. Roofs provide shelter and protection and also add beauty to buildings. There are many different types of roofs available today. Some roofs are made of metal sheets, others are made of wood, and others are made of asphalt. Each type offers its benefits and disadvantages. As you can see, there are many options for choosing a roof. You must consider your needs before deciding what kind of roof will suit you best.
Now that you have learned all about the history of roofing and how it has helped modernized our lifestyles contact our professional roofing experts. Roofing Systems will give you a free quote on any roof repairs or replacements you need. Call us at (720) 227-9228.