Choosing the right cover for your construction is vital for enjoying optimal comfort in your home and protecting it from the weather while providing it with aesthetics. In this area, a vast choice is offered to consumers (tiles, slates, slate, etc.). But to dress small structures such as a garden shed or a garage, the shingle, also called “bituminous roof” or “bituminous shingles” can be enough.
What is a shingle roof?
The shingle which means “shingle” in English is a product from the United States. It is also nicknamed bituminous shingle, Canadian shingle, asphalt shingle or bituminous slate. It consists of asphalt or bitumen felts in the form of two sheets in the middle of which there is a fiberglass support. Mineral granules form the upper layer of the shingle which can be declined in a range of colours: green, red, yellow, grey, black… They ensure the aesthetic side and guarantee protection against UV rays. As for the fiberglass, it contributes to the rigidity and stability of the shingle which, moreover, resembles slate after installation.
The shingles must always overlap when installing to optimize sealing. It is for this reason that they are usually sold in a rectangular shape. As for the form, several possibilities are offered. In order to satisfy all whimsical desires, manufacturers have also developed beavertail or tortoiseshell models as well as diamond-shaped shingles.
How to apply the shingle?
Only roofs with a slope of more than 9° or 20% can be covered with this material. This arises in two ways. The first so-called “American” technique is the simplest. It consists of covering chipboard panels with waterproof felt fabrics and then fixing the assembly with nails or staples. This method is mainly used on garden sheds, garages or sheds.
The second process is a “French” pose. The fixing system is provided here by hooks which will be placed on battens. This installation can be used on the roofs of houses, but it will first be necessary to install thermal insulation before implementing it.
What are the advantages and disadvantages of this solution?
The biggest advantage of a shingle roof is its lower cost. The price varies from 10 to 15 euros per m². This shingle is also very easy to install and remains particularly aesthetic since it comes in a multitude of colors. Moreover, he is not afraid of fire. Despite its advantages, the shingle also has its limitations. Its lifespan, for example, is reduced in comparison with other materials since it will be necessary to consider completely redoing it after approximately 25 years. We also regret the fragility of the material which in case of high temperature can undulate or in case of extreme cold, retract. Another negative point: the lack of insulation.