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Everyone is talking about the Roman Empire. Metal roofs came from the Romans, too!

Of late, it’s hard to ignore the sheer quantity of conversations about the Roman Empire. It seems that this ancient civilization has once again captured the collective imagination of people everywhere. A recent article in Reader’s Digest by Kiersten Hickman highlighted the viral popularity of the #romanempire tag on TikTok, shedding light on the unexpected frequency with which many people, especially men, find themselves pondering the mysteries of the Roman Empire.

This contemporary fascination with the Roman Empire holds a special significance for us at Spengler Industries. We are renowned for our highly engineered metal roofing and cladding systems, deeply rooted in the traditions that trace their origins back to the ingenuity of the Romans.

The Roman Pioneers of Metal Roofing

Around 100 BC, during the era of Julius Caesar, the Romans were on the brink of a revolutionary breakthrough: the creation of an innovative plumbing system. This technological leap not only transformed the management of water but also paved the way for diverse applications in sheet metal work. One of the most enduring outcomes of this innovation was the birth of metal roofing.

The Romans discovered that when properly installed, metal roofs could stand the test of time, keeping structures impervious to water for centuries. This newfound resilience dramatically reduced the need for maintenance, sparing workers the dangerous task of scaling towering buildings to address roofing issues. Consequently, metal roofing began to gain widespread popularity, reshaping the architectural landscape of Europe.

Architectural Freedom and Innovation

With the advent of metal roofing technology, architects were granted unprecedented freedom to design larger, taller, and more ornate structures. Metal, primarily copper at the time, became the material of choice due to its durability and longevity. In an era devoid of modern cranes and Genie booms, the permanence of metal roofing was paramount.

The Journey of Engineering Excellence

Perfecting metal roofing technology was no straightforward task. Engineers embarked on a journey filled with trials and errors, starting with a rectangular tile system featuring a horizontal layout with no technically interlocking capabilities, a design that many still associate with quality roofing today. However, this system faced recurring failures, primarily due to its reliance on direct fasteners that often pulled out of the substrate, leading to damage and leaks.

Here’s a ubiquitously used system in the United States that didn’t learn from history.

Another issue was the inadequate direction of water channels, compounding the problems associated with this roofing system. Frustration mounted, prompting engineers to reassess their approach and return to the drawing board.

The Eureka Moment: Interlocking Diamond-Shaped Shingles and other systems like those we make here at Spengler.

After persistent effort, engineers had their “Eureka” moment—a design so ingenious that it was destined for success. They conceived the idea of interlocking diamond-shaped shingles, a concept that would prove to be a game-changer.

These shingles weren’t just durable, courtesy of their metal composition; they were also ingeniously secured with indirect fasteners on each side, ensuring their strength. The seamless interlocking of each shingle with its adjoining piece guaranteed a watertight seal, and these shingles could effortlessly conform to any radiused object. The problems that had bedeviled earlier systems were finally vanquished.

Spengler Industries: Modern Excellence in Metal Roofing

At Spengler Industries, we proudly carry forth the tradition of these interlocking metal shingles and panels—the same design that has graced buildings, remaining virtually maintenance-free for over half a millennium. Our commitment to quality and innovation ensures that our metal roofing and cladding systems not only pay homage to the engineering marvels of the Romans but also provide clients with cutting-edge performance and reliability.

When you choose Spengler Industries, you’re not merely selecting a roof; you’re embracing the engineering brilliance of the past while embracing the possibilities of the future. Join us in celebrating the wonders of history as we build towards a better tomorrow.

Call today to order your engineered metal roof and wall.

801-462-5264

Spengler Industries