Berridge shingles: truly traditional copies???

Berridge shingles from Texas appear to be the most appropriate choice of new metal shingles that I have seen….BUT….there are FOUR visual differences between the modern version compared to the old style antique shingles.

Actually there are five, but the metal alloy content difference is not included.

The photos on this page focus on one of these differences.

Berridge modern shingle roof edge

Antique tin shingle roof edge

Berridge roof edging is distinctly different: The first photo shows a “lip” or “drip edge”. This additional straight metal piece offers an owner a visually smooth appearance.

The traditional embossed tin shingle of 100 to 140 years ago uses the bottom side of the shingles as a roof edge. Over decades, the shingle edge may develop a warping line due to ladders, tree limbs and just plain age. Indeed the roof edge is one of the first indicators of the health of an old tin roof.

The beauty of the edging is in the eye of the owner; some customers love the “charm” of the vintage look. “The roof does not look modern,” said another. A few question the “uplift” possibility in windy, rainy weather. The response on my part is usually a tactful, “For over 100 years your roof doesn’t leak except maybe around the chimney, which all roofing does.”

If the roof edge style has performed well on 98% of your area for 100 years plus, why tear if off?

The photo above illustrates a roof edge line from below. If your reaction to the appearance of the roof edge is one of the following:

1. “I want a straight line on my vintage roof” – See this Durham, NC, award winning roof.
2. “Love the look” – See this project in Washington, DC.
3. “Want to keep the look and add new shingles – See this Kings Mountain, NC, home on the National Register of Historic Places.
4. “I want the new metal shingle look” – Click to this page on Berridge and WF Norman manufacturers.

Finally, there are four differences, this webpage reveals two more.  Actually one of remaining three differences can be spotted on the second photo.  Here’s a hint.