We’ve all been there, shingles come flying off in the midst of a storm, now we need to call and get our roof fixed or replaced. Materials vary based on geography and climate, layouts vary in intricacy. It’s all very complicated. Today we’re diving in to the history of the roof.
The Hanging Gardens of Babylon
Courtesy of: History.com
500 B.C
We have all heard about the wonders of the world, did you know that one of them was actually a roof? The Hanging Gardens in Babylon, constructed in 500 B.C. were an ancient roofing system comprised of reeds and tar.
Clay Tiled Roof
Courtesy of: San Diego Roofing, Inc.
10,000 B.C.
The first historically recognized roof was made in China out of clay tiles.
5,000 years ago, Babylon began utilizing clay tiles.
Fun Fact: Clay tiled roofs built thousands of years ago by the Romans still stand today.
1212 A.D
King John of England was introduced to clay tiles and referred to them as “fire proof.” This prompted the creation of by-laws for safer roofs in London.
1679
A series of fires in the New World prompted Boston and New York to create building and fire codes
1840’s
The first composite shingle was introduced- Felt fabric was covered with a tar-like substance.
1903
Technological advancements transformed the composite shingle. Asphalt was shaped, initially by hand!
1911
Wood shingles were eliminated
1914
These advanced shingles were weighted down to the roof
Composite Shingle
Courtesy of: ABC Supply
Wood Shingles
Courtesy of: Refined Exteriors
Green Roof - Modern
Courtesy of: greenroofs.com
1960’s
Germany revisits the ancient concept of the green roof.
Today
These “ancient” concepts have continued to undergo numerous advancements as technology and need have grown. Today, climate and geography play an integral role in what types of material are used. For example, the tile roof is still used today in milder climates and can last for centuries.