The H.M. Reynolds Company, based in Grand Rapids, Michigan laid claim to be the inventors of the asphalt shingle roof. Rolled asphalt roofing that was coated with slate granules was available in the late 19th century.
Asphalt shingles were available widely by 1910. They rapidly replaced wood shingles because of their fire resistance and economy.
Throughout the 20th century, shingles evolved to feature an array of textures and shapes. Ceramic granules replaced the crushed slate coating. By the mid-20th century, asphalt had become synonymous with reliable and affordable roofing.
The industry witnessed a surge in innovation as these shingles withstood the elements. On top of that, they embraced new designs with technological growth, offering homeowners a variety of tile-like appearances and use in roofing solutions.
When Were Asphalt Shingles First Used? The History of Asphalt
They were first used in 1903, in general use in parts of America by 1911, and by 1939, 11 million squares of shingles were being produced. This exponential growth in production reflected the widespread adoption of asphalt, signaling a transformative era in the industry.
The surge in manufacturing not only met the rising demand for this reliable roofing material but also contributed to the economic boom within the roofing sector.
As the popularity of asphalt soared, their history became intertwined with the evolution of roofing. The mid-20th century saw a remarkable shift, with asphalt shingles emerging as the go-to roofing material for homeowners in the U.S seeking both durability and affordability.
The three-tab modern asphalt shingle, with its waterproof qualities, quickly became popular, making it an essential choice in roof repairs and shaping the landscape of roofing services across the nation.
During the post-World War II housing boom, asphalt played a pivotal role in shaping suburban homes. The roofing sector experienced a surge in innovation, offering an expanding array of design options including roof tiles and downspouts.
This period marked the consolidation of asphalt as a reliable and cost-effective solution, reflecting the transformation of roofing materials to meet the growing demands of individuals.
In the 21st century, the evolution of asphalt shingles continues to unfold with technological advancements, marking a substantial change in the built environment. Today’s shingles, while rooted in history, have undergone technological advancements to meet modern standards used for roofing.
The industry now boasts a diverse range of materials including roof tiles, yet shingles remain a popular choice due to their durability, affordability, and the diverse textures and shapes they offer.
The history of asphalt , from their humble beginnings to today’s modern iterations, exemplifies the industry’s ability to adapt, providing homeowners with a roofing material that stands the test of time.
The evolution of asphalt reflects not only the material’s journey but also the broader history of roofing, showcasing how roofing services have adapted to changing needs over the years.
From the 19th century to today, shingles have become a symbol of reliable roofing, marking a lasting impact on the architecture and homes that dot the American landscape.
What Were Asphalt Roofing Shingles Like In The 19th Century?
In 1903, a Grand Rapids, Michigan roofing contractor named Henry Reynolds is credited with inventing roofing shingles. Before his innovation, around the turn of the 20th century, roofs typically used materials such as wood and slate shingles for both residential and commercial buildings.
Reynolds changed this landscape by cutting rolls saturated with asphalt and surfaced with stone into individual shingles, measuring 8” x 16”. This manual process marked the first asphalt made on a large scale.
It took 12 years before a machine, using a roller-die to cut individual shingles from asphalt-saturated felt ribbons, was perfected.
The U.S roofing industry witnessed a significant development in the 1920s with the introduction of the first strip shingle, or Neposet Twin, by Bird and Son for use in roofing. This innovation featured a cutout in the middle of a larger 12.5” x 20” shingle.
The mid-19th century saw the beginnings of the asphalt boom, with the 1950s marking the 3-tab shingle becoming the standard; these shingles commonly measured 12” x 36” per shingle. At the same time, the use of asphalt began to dominate, gradually replacing the reliance on tar.
Despite the availability of affordable asphalt from a growing petroleum industry, natural asphalt remained a point of product promotion at least as late as 1930.
Early shingles were rectangular or hexagonal, with colors usually limited to red, green, or black due to the natural materials used for the granular surface and possibly asbestos. The variety of shingle shapes and sizes, including tiles and downspouts, peaked by 1930 due to technological growth.
By 1935, all major manufacturers were offering a 12 by 36 inch multiple-tab shingle that is the standard today. The introduction of granules allowed a wider range of color choices, often mixed to produce a blended shingle.
As we take our roofs for granted today, it’s essential to recognize the journey and innovation behind modern shingles. The replacement of organic felts with fiberglass mats marked a significant change, resulting in stronger and more durable shingles made for roofing use.
The roofing sector has come a long way from its imitation of traditional materials to the development of low-slope roofs and the use of materials such as bitumen.
Roofing has become one of the most common and necessary components of any built structure, serving both functional and aesthetic purposes. Shingles, in particular, have become a common roofing option for their versatility, durability, and ease of installation.
The evolution of materials in roofing and techniques has contributed to the longevity and reliability of roofs, protecting homes and businesses alike.
What Were Roofs Made Of 1800s? Which Roofing Material Was Popular?
During the late 19th century, people’s choice of material, like thatch or shingles, were influenced by factors such as the accessibility to resources, architectural tastes, and climate. In warmer parts of the country, wood roofing was a common choice, while in colder regions, metal was often preferred.
Different regions showcased various architectural styles, and people often selected roofing materials that complemented the overall design of their homes. Wood roofing, with its natural and rustic appeal, was often chosen for traditional or warmer architectural styles.
The elegant and timeless appearance of slate made it a preferred choice for more classic and sophisticated designs.
Before the advent of modern asphalt, roofs were predominantly composed of wood during the early 18th century. Clay tiles were also fairly commonplace atop various shelters, and researchers and archaeologists have identified clay from China over 5,000 years ago.
A demonstration of a history that dates back to the 1850s, bituminous and metal roofing systems began to gain popularity around this period, as reported by Architect Magazine.
Pine tar, much like thatch in historic buildings, was another commonly used material, applied by installers to coat the fabric resting atop properties.
The world of roofing saw continual evolution and innovation, with different materials vying for the coveted position of being the best choice for roofing.
Coal tar was another substance that found its way into the world of roofing. Used around the turn of the 19th century, coal tar was applied to roofs to provide protection from the elements and enhance their durability.
This material was widely available and contributed to the emergence of different roofing options, ranging from low-slope roofs to those with a more traditional pitch.
As technology continued to evolve, the roofing industry saw the development of diverse materials like fiberglass base shingles. These shingles, introduced in the 1930s, offered a new range of designs and possibilities for roofing, further expanding the choices available.
The introduction of three-tab versions and the incorporation of ceramic granules for additional protection became common features in the roofing landscape.