Roofing Restoration with Asphalt Shingles

12/13/2015

Homeowners of historic homes and businesses know the challenge on maintaining the natural beauty of traditional building materials. Cedar shakes and slates are beautiful and will last for decades, but when the time comes to replace a historic roof, there are many challenges. Traditional roofing materials like slate and shakes are beautiful, but many modern asphalt shingle alternatives can simulate the look and texture of many different materials, all with the strength of modern engineering.  Asphalt shingles are tough, durable, and many are built to withstand any weather conditions.

The caretakers of historic Shiloh House in Zion City, Illinois had to face this decision in 1995. They chose the strong and beautiful Carriage House shingles to reproduce the distinctive lightning pattern Shiloh House is famous for.

The next year, in 1996, 33 tornadoes whipped through northeastern Illinois, in Zion City alone #3 million in damages were reported. However, the roof of Shiloh House came through everything undamaged. The CertainTeed shingles had held out; the strong asphalt shingles were still in place.

Asphalt shingles have come a long way, and are a strong, durable, and economical choice even for roofs looking to maintain a historic feel. To read more, and see a picture of the distinctive Lightning bolt pattern, check out this article from CertainTeed.