There are many types of roofing available today. However, there is a type you may not have heard of yet. Wallaba shingles have been around for over a century, but have only recently become popular. They are heavily used in tropical areas where storms with high volumes of water are prevalent. Wallaba is 100% natural, last for many years, and is better at withstanding tropical storms than most other types of roofing.
The Wallaba tree grows mainly in South America. It is a hardwood tree that can reach heights of 40-60 feet and a diameter of 18-24 inches. The shingles are generally manufactured in Guyana and then shipped to distributors throughout the world.
Wallaba shingles are very similar to cedar shingles (also known as shakes) in both installation and appearance. The shingles are made of planks of wood that are carefully overlaid on each other to form a weather tight barrier. The gum that is naturally present in the wood helps the shingles repel water and insects. So, there is no need to spray chemicals on the shingles to avoid infestation as is required for cedar shingles.
These shingles will last, on average, between 40-50 years. That is over twice the lifespan of many other types of roofing.
Because of the Wallaba’s naturally water repellent quality, as well as the method used to secure the shingles, this type of roofing can withstand tropical storms much better than other types of roofing. For this reason, Wallaba is very common in coastal areas that are known to have tropical storms. If, by chance, a tropical storm does manage to dislodge a few shingles, the Wallaba will not hurt ocean life, as it is all natural.
While there are many types of roofing to consider when reroofing your home, Wallaba shingles are beautiful, durable, 100% natural, and can outlast most other types of roofing. You can support the environment, beautify and protect your home all at once.