CHAPTER 7 — The Rise of Asphalt Shingles (1900–1950)

From the early 1900s to the mid-20th century, asphalt shingles became the most widely adopted roofing material in Canada. Their rise marked a major shift away from wood, metal, and slate roofs, transforming residential construction nationwide. Easy to install, inexpensive, and mass-produced, asphalt shingles dominated Canadian neighborhoods for more than 100 years.

Why Asphalt Shingles Became Popular

• Low cost: Mass production made asphalt shingles affordable for every homeowner.
• Fast installation: Roofers could cover entire houses in a fraction of the time required for wood or slate.
• Nationwide availability: Factories in Canada and the U.S. supplied millions of bundles annually.
• Flexible in all climates: Suitable for cold, heat, snow, and rain.

Early Organic Asphalt Shingles

The first generation of asphalt shingles used an organic felt base soaked in bitumen and topped with mineral granules. These shingles were durable but heavier and more moisture-absorbent than modern versions.

Advantages Over Traditional Roofing

• Replaced flammable wood shingles that contributed to urban fires.
• Required less skill than slate or tile installation.
• Provided uniform appearance across new housing developments.
• Didn’t require imported materials like slate or clay.

Impact on Canadian Housing Development

The rise of asphalt shingles aligned perfectly with Canada’s rapid urbanization and post-war housing boom. Entire suburban neighborhoods were built with identical asphalt roofs, making them a defining feature of 20th-century Canadian architecture.

The Shift Toward Modern Fiberglass Shingles

By the late 1960s, manufacturers began transitioning from organic felt shingles to fiberglass-reinforced shingles. This new generation was lighter, stronger, and more resistant to moisture, setting the stage for modern roofing standards.

This chapter is part of the ROOFNOW™ Canadian Roofing History Archive.