10 Fascinating Facts About the History of Roofing
Roofing has come a long way from simple shelters to sophisticated systems we reply on today. At North OKGN Construction, we love digging into the past to see how our craft has evolved. We’ve complied 10 captivating facts about roofing history from all over the world the highlight just how creative and resourceful humanity has been when it comes to protecting our homes.
- Thatched Roofs Date Back Over 10,000 years
Made from dried vegetation like straw or reeds, thatch is one of the oldest roofing materials. Early civilizations used it for its availability and natural insulation. In parts of the world, thatched roofs are still used today due to their eco-friendliness and charm.
- The Ancient Egyptians used mud and straw
In the scorching heat of Egypt, mud and straw were used to create flat roofs that doubled as living spaces. They’d dry in the sun to form a hard, weather-resistant surface. Talk about multi-functional architecture!
- Romans Pioneered the Use of Tile Roofing
Around 100 B.C., the Romans introduced fired clay tiles. These durable, weatherproof tiles became a hallmark of Roman architecture and set the standard for roofing materials across Europe.
- Green Roofs are Really Old News
The Vikings of Scandinavia were early adopters of what we now call green roofs. They covered their homes with sod for insulation and to keep their structures stable during hard weather. These ancient homes were cozy and eco-friendly before it was trendy.
- Slate Roofs Were First Used in the 13th Century.
In medieval Europe, slate became popular for its fire resistance and longevity. Towns prone to fires embraced slate roofing as a practical way to reduce the spread of flames. Today, slate remains one of the most durable and elegant roofing options.
- Asphalt Shingles Are a 20th Century Invention
Asphalt shingles, now the most common roofing material in North America, were invented in 1903. By the 1920’s, they had replaced wood shingles as the go-to choice due to their affordability, fire resistance and versatility.
Winter Roofing Myths: What You Should and Shouldn't Worry About
The Importance of Hiring a Local Roofing Expert in the Okanagan: Winter Safety Edition
