Oak Shingles 10m2 Bag

Made in France|Sold by the 10m2 bag|Supplied with hanging staple|10/m2 Coverage per Bag if fitted at 100mm exposure|Thickness: 20mm (tapers to 10mm)|Length:13″| Widths: 2″ -6″ (random mix)|Please note these sizes are approximate.

Traditional Oak Shingles that are extremely resilient and hard wearing

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Installation Guide for Timber Shingles

Introduction

Timber shingles provide a natural, traditional finish for roofs and walls. Correct installation ensures durability, weather resistance, and aesthetic appeal. This guide covers general installation steps and highlights key differences between hardwood and softwood shingles.

Tools & Materials Needed

• Timber shingles (hardwood or softwood)
• Stainless steel nails or copper nails
• Battens or counter-battens
• Breathable membrane
• Chalk line
• Hammer or nail gun
• Spacers
• Saw
• Ladder and safety equipment

Step-by-Step Installation

1. Prepare the Surface

• Ensure the roof or wall is structurally sound.
• Install a breathable membrane for moisture control.
• Fix battens horizontally at correct spacing (usually 100–150 mm apart for roofing).

2. Acclimate Shingles

• Store shingles on-site for 48–72 hours to adjust to local conditions.
• For hardwood shingles, allow extra time as they are less flexible.

3. Plan Layout

• Start from the bottom edge and work upward.
• Use a chalk line for straight courses.
• Stagger joints for proper water shedding.

4. Install the First Course

• Position shingles with a 10–15 mm overhang beyond the eaves.
• Nail each shingle about 20–25 mm from the edge and 30–40 mm above the exposure line.
• Use two nails per shingle.

5. Continue Installation

• Overlap each course by at least double the exposure (commonly 125 mm exposure for roofing).
• Maintain consistent spacing between shingles (usually 3–5 mm for expansion).
• For walls, exposure can be slightly greater than for roofing.

6. Ridge and Hip Details

• Use special ridge shingles or cut standard shingles to fit.
• Ensure proper overlap and sealing at ridges and hips.

Differences Between Hardwood and Softwood Shingles

Hardwood Shingles (e.g., Oak)

• Pros: Extremely durable, long lifespan (50+ years), resistant to impact.
• Cons: Heavier, harder to nail, requires pre-drilling to avoid splitting.
• Installation Notes:
  • Use stainless steel nails for strength.
  • Pre-drill nail holes to prevent cracking.
  • Ensure strong structural support due to weight.

Softwood Shingles (e.g., Cedar)

• Pros: Lightweight, easier to cut and nail, naturally rot-resistant.
• Cons: Shorter lifespan (20–30 years), more prone to wind damage.
• Installation Notes:
  • Nails can be driven without pre-drilling.
  • Ideal for steep roofs and walls.
  • Requires regular maintenance for color retention.

Finishing Touches

• Apply a breathable wood preservative or UV-protective oil if desired.
• Inspect alignment and secure all fixings.

Maintenance Tips

• Clean debris annually.
• Check for loose shingles after storms.
• Reapply protective finish every 3–5 years for color retention.

Overview: Timber Shingle Roofing

Timber shingles offer natural beauty and exceptional durability when properly maintained. Available in cedar, larch, and oak, timber shingles provide decades of reliable weather protection while enhancing property value. Regular maintenance is essential for the performance of timber shingles, and following proper care practices will protect your investment and maximize your roof’s lifespan.

Why Choose Timber Shingles?

Different timber species offer varying characteristics and lifespans:

Cedar Shingles

• Naturally resistant to rot and insects due to natural preservatives in the wood
• Weathers to attractive silvery-grey patina
• Expected lifespan of 30+ years with proper care
• Lightweight and excellent for historic homes and coastal properties

Larch Shingles

• High natural resin content provides excellent decay resistance
• Expected lifespan of 50-60 years with proper maintenance
• Beautiful golden-brown colour weathering to silvery-grey
• Outstanding value for long-term investment

Oak Shingles

• Exceptional longevity of 70-80+ years, making it one of the longest-lasting natural roofing materials
• Dense heartwood with superior resistance to extreme elements
• Premium choice for maximum performance and heritage projects

Natural Characteristics

• Wood shingles contain extractives that resist moisture and are toxic to fungi and insects
• Timber naturally absorbs and releases moisture (hygroscopic)
• Shingles expand and contract with temperature swings and moisture
• All species develop silvery-grey patina over time without treatment
• Minor surface checking is normal and doesn’t affect performance
• Over time, natural chemicals can be depleted and sunlight can degrade the wood surface

Regular Inspection Schedule

Inspect your roof at least twice a year in spring and autumn, plus after severe weather events

Key Inspection Points

• Cracked, split, warped, or missing shingles
• Moss, algae, or lichen growth that can trap moisture and accelerate decay
• Discolouration or dark patches indicating water absorption or fungal growth
• Damaged flashing around chimneys, vents, and valleys
• Debris accumulation between shingles and in valleys
• Signs of pest activity
• Loose or warped shingles that reduce water-shedding ability

Early detection prevents minor issues becoming major repairs and significantly reduces long-term costs.

Cleaning and Debris Removal

Remove all leaf litter, conifer needles, and debris that accumulate between shingles and in valleys at least twice annually, ideally before wet seasons:

• Use soft-bristled broom or leaf blower for regular cleaning
• Never use excessive water pressure or wash against the downslope as this can damage wood and fracture shingles
• Work from top to bottom following natural water flow
• Clear gutters and downspouts to prevent water backup
• Wetter conditions encourage growth of fungi, mosses, and lichens which shorten roof life

Moss, Algae, and Biological Growth Control

Prevention and treatment are essential for longevity:

Prevention

• Trim overhanging branches to increase sunlight and improve airflow
• Maintain 1-2 metres clearance from trees to roof
• Install zinc or copper strips near roof ridge to inhibit moss and algae growth

Treatment

• Apply eco-friendly moss treatments as needed
• Apply treatments on cloudy days to slow evaporation and improve effectiveness
• Gently brush away dead moss after treatment
• Reapply protective treatments after cleaning

Protective Treatments and Preservatives

Wood preservatives can help extend roof life, with treatment effectiveness better on recently installed roofs

Treatment Schedule

• Treat new shingles within first year of installation
• Reapply quality preservatives every 3-5 years depending on exposure
• Wood moisture content should be below 20% and temperature above 5-10°C during application
• Apply two coats with drying period in between, especially for cedar which resists fluid uptake

Treatment Types

• Water-Repellent Preservatives: Protect against moisture and decay
• UV Protectants: Prevent premature weathering and colour fading
• Anti-Fungal Treatments: Inhibit wood-decaying fungi
• Combination Products: Multi-purpose comprehensive protection

Application

• Spraying generally works better than rolling or brushing due to uneven surface
• Avoid spraying when wind speed exceeds 4 mph
• Apply uniformly to all exposed surfaces including cut ends
• Follow manufacturer recommendations for coverage rates

Ventilation Requirements

Proper airflow is critical for longevity:

• Ensure adequate attic ventilation to prevent moisture accumulation
• Balance intake vents (soffits) with exhaust vents (ridge or gable)
• Maintain 1-2 metres clearance between roof and vegetation
• Good airflow helps roof dry quickly after rain, reducing moisture damage
• Clean gutters regularly to move water away from roof

Common Problems and Solutions

Cracked or Split Shingles

• Minor cracks and splits are natural and don’t affect structural integrity
• Replace shingles showing significant splitting
• Apply protective treatments to minimize further damage

Missing or Damaged Shingles

• Replace missing, broken, or buckled shingles promptly
• Match replacement shingles to existing grade and species
• Check surrounding shingles for potential problems

Wood Rot and Decay

• Rot may develop if wood moisture rises above 20%
• Remove and replace severely rotted sections immediately
• Identify and eliminate moisture source

Pest Activity

• Pests can invade through missing or broken shingles
• Inspect for entry points and repair immediately
• Monitor for signs of insect infestation

Longevity and Performance

With proper installation, treatment, and maintenance:

• Cedar: Minimum 30-year lifespan, potentially 50+ years with maintenance; without proper maintenance, only 15-20 years
• Larch: 50-60 year lifespan with proper care
• Oak: 70-80+ year lifespan, with some roofs exceeding 100 years

Key Factors: Quality of installation, local climate, roof pitch, maintenance frequency, biological growth control, and proper ventilation all significantly affect lifespan.

Cost-Benefit Analysis

• Higher upfront cost compared to alternatives
• Regular maintenance adds 10-20 years to roof lifespan
• Lower replacement frequency reduces lifetime costs
• Enhances property value and provides natural insulation
• Typical professional costs: £750 for repairs, £0.21-£0.34 per square foot for cleaning
• DIY maintenance requires only 2-4 hours twice yearly

When to Call Professionals

Consult experts for:

• Multiple damaged shingles requiring replacement
• Persistent leaks or structural repairs
• Extensive moss treatment and removal
• Professional-grade preservative application
• Power washing services (note: improper power washing can damage wood and fracture shingles
• Complete roof assessment

Maximizing Your Investment

The Bottom Line: Spending 2-4 hours twice yearly on basic maintenance protects decades of reliable service. Regular care can extend roof life by 10-20 years or more, making timber shingles one of the most cost-effective and sustainable roofing solutions available.

Best Practices Summary

• Inspect twice yearly and after severe weather
• Clean debris promptly before wet seasons
• Control biological growth through prevention and treatment
• Apply protective treatments every 3-5 years
• Ensure proper ventilation beneath and around roof
• Address problems immediately before they escalate

Need Help?

Timber shingles offer the perfect balance of natural beauty, durability, and environmental sustainability—providing reliable weather protection and aesthetic appeal for decades. For professional installation, maintenance services, treatment product recommendations, or to discuss your timber shingle options, our experienced team is always on hand to assist. Contact us for tailored support to suit your project.

• The Care and Maintenance of Wood Shingle and Shake Roofs | OSU Extension Service)
• Installation, Care, and Maintenance of Wood Shake and Shingle Roofs Tony Bonura