The Evolution of Metal Shingles

by Mark Robins | 1 April 2022 12:00 am

Packaged in small, easy-to-transport boxes make shipping and delivery a breeze. The minimal waste and optimal ease of installation makes the bidding and ordering of jobs precise and accurate. No more leftover material. Because of their small and lightweight nature, metal shingles are easily adaptable to all types of roofs, i.e., round turrets, barrel roofs, pitch transitions, rounded dormers, etc.

Four Styles

There are basically four styles of metal shingles: shake, slate, wood grain and tile. The slate and wood grain shingles are installed direct to deck, whereas, most metal shakes and tiles require a batten system underneath with rather extensive prep time.

Virtually all metal shingles rely on some type of interlocking installation system. A zee lock is typical and when installed correctly these shingles can withstand extremely high winds. Hurricane clips can be installed in areas with severe weather conditions. An integrated locking flashing (gable, drip, valley and headwall) makes for an overall tight and secure job.

As most standing seam installers know, when a steel panel becomes damaged (bent or perforated), repairs prove to be very troublesome. The entire panel must be removed and replaced. However, when a metal shingle is damaged for whatever reason, the individual shingle is easily removed and replaced. This saves time and money when dealing with roof repairs.

Appearance and Installation

Arguably, the biggest differences between steel standing seam roofs and metal shingle roofs are the appearance and variety the shingle brings, especially in the residential sector. Now homeowners have many more options available. In addition to aluminum, architects and builders are choosing copper, zinc and steel products. The commercial appearance of standing seam panels has long been a distraction for residential projects. Metal shingles not only provide the benefits of a lifetime material, but also give that residential look homeowners desire.

Ease of installation is one of the most appealing features of metal shingles. Aluminum shingles are the lightest shingles on the market, weighing just 40 pounds per square. They are easy to carry and move about on the roof, and small enough to adapt to any style of roof. With just one aluminum nail per shingle, shingles quickly lock into place and are fastened. There are no exposed nails, which make a more weathertight roof.

As more and more people become educated about the different options available in metal roofing, their use and popularity will grow exponentially. Metal shingles, with all their benefits, are here to stay!

Kevin Stapp is president of The Aluminum Shingle Co., Layton, Utah. To learn more, visit www.permalockroofing.com[1].

Source URL: https://www.metalconstructionnews.com/articles/the-evolution-of-metal-shingles/

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