Here at Custom Shingles, we specialize in just that: providing customized wood shingle solutions for everyday building applications. Wood shingles are used on numerous different architectural styles, ranging from traditional cottages and shingled homes, to more modern applications with neat, straight lines. Here are a four elements that make wood shingles unique and so architecturally versatile:
1.Cut of the shingle: Our line of Fancy Cutt™ shingles come precut and ready for install. Most commonly found on siding applications, shapes include dragontooth, fishscale, and halfround, and are often seen on coastal shingled homes and historic properties. In some cases, the shingles are installed all cut the same such as this gorgeous Hawaiian residence featuring Dragontooth teak shingles. Other times, these shingles are installed alongside regular cedar shingles to add in little touches of character. Below is an example of our Diamond and Half Round Fancy Cutt Shingles mixed to give an interesting detail on the siding:
2. Length of the shingle: Often one of the more overlooked distinctions in shingles are their length. The most common sizes range between 16”-18”, but can go up to 48” in length! While the traditional 16”-18” shingles provide a uniform, collective appearance, our 48” shingles can be installed at an exposure of up to 14.5”, giving a strikingly unique look. Below is a comparison of 18” versus the 48” cedar shingle installed at max exposure:
3. Bent Shingles: Our patented steam bending system allows for various radius bends to produce both convex and concave curves. Convex curves can be used to compose rolling gables and eaves you see on our Country Cottage roof systems, while our concave curves work well for seamless valley transitions and other, more modern applications such as the flared bell tower on the shingled home below. Regardless of the curvature and application, bent shingles work well to soften a roof’s harsh edges and help to give a harmonious transition between roof and siding.
4. Stained Shingles:
Staining or painting cedar shingles can provide not only a beautiful appearance but offers functional benefits. Here are a couple variations of stained and painted shingle projects. Over time, wood shingles can weather and change color, and staining or painting can help preserve and enhance their appearance. This is particularly beneficial in areas with harsh weather conditions, where the wood is exposed to rain, wind, and temperature fluctuations. While regular cedar is resilient enough to hold up (and hold up well!) against weather conditions, the extra layer helps to protect it just that much further. Stained shingles are most popular with our country cottages and coastal cottages, where flair and charming details contribute to the overall cottage impression.
Wood shingles bring a warmth and natural appearance to any property, and customizing them brings all the more charm and architectural integrity. Most custom styles and cuts can come in all of our wood species, such as Western Red Cedar, Alaskan Yellow Cedar, Eastern White Cedar, and even Teak. Contact us today for all your custom shingle needs!