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A well-constructed roof is a necessity to shield a house from rain, sun, and pests. Throughout history, roofing represented a building’s character and showcased architectural trends of the period. Below are some common historical materials that have appeared on roofs across the U.S.

The Top Historical Materials for American Roofs

1. Shingles

Wood shingles are one of the oldest materials used to cover a house. White pine was especially common in northern climates since it was a local species of wood. To increase its strength and life, builders would apply a protective coating made of fish oil and brick dust. Wood was replaced in urban areas with more fire-resistant options, but it was still common in rural areas. It also appeared in Victorian architecture and experienced a revival at the turn of the 20th century in bungalow and colonial-style homes. Today, there are a variety of shingle styles throughout each region of the U.S., including staggered, pointed, and fish-scaled.

roofing2. Metal

Metal roofing appeared in the 19th century. Before this time, copper dominated. Tin-plate iron was also popular at the time, appearing on Thomas Jefferson’s Monticello home. When the galvanization of iron and steel came about, zinc-coated roofs gained prominence across the nation. These materials were less expensive than copper and became easier to install for average American families. When tin-rolling mill production was established, tin shingle roofing became extremely popular for its light weight, low cost, and low maintenance.

3. Slate

Settlers who came to the New World brought the practice of slate roofing; evidence of this style appears in the ruins of the Jamestown settlement in Virginia. It was expensive and time-consuming to install, so builders didn’t use it often. However, slate was an excellent material for roofs because it’s waterproof, fireproof, durable, and aesthetically pleasing. It came in a range of colors, including purple, blue, red, green, and gray. It was also popular during the Victorian era and continued to be used throughout the 20th century on Tudor revival homes.

 

Roofing in the U.S. is constantly changing with the times. If you’re looking to update the roof of your home with a more durable, cost-effective option, contact the team at Walter St. Clair Roofing in Cincinnati, OH. This family-owned and -operated business has offered roof repairs and replacements since 1923. They also provide siding installations, gutter replacements, and chimney care. For a free estimate, call (513) 641-3265. Visit them online to learn more about their services.

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