Types of wood

	Larch (Larix decidua)This deciduous coniferous tree grows mainly in the central and uppermost regions of the Alps and the Central European Uplands. It is one of the hardest coniferous woods and extremely flexible. The reddish to brown heartwood has a high resin content. The outer, light sapwood is removed for shingle production. Split larch shingles have been used as a roofing material in Europe for centuries and have certainly proved their worth.
	Oak (Quercus robur)This widespread deciduous broad-leaved tree is known for its hard, firm heartwood. The dark brown heartwood is surrounded by a light sapwood which is removed for shingle production. As it contains many tannins it is very tough and does not decay. Wind and weather only wear away this wood at a very slow rate. We can recommend split oak shingles as the highest quality roof covering.
	Red cedar (Thuja plicata)This evergreen coniferous tree is native to the West coast of North America. The slim, conical tree grows up to a height of 60 m. The light brown to dark brown wood is light and tough. It contains pungent, aromatic oils. These natural substances provide resistance to decay fungi. Shingles made from this wood are particularly suitable for areas where durability can be under threat by decay fungi.
	Alaska cedar (Chamaecyparis nootkatensis)This coniferous tree only grows on the Pacific coast of North America. It flourishes best in the mountainous coastal forests of British Columbia in Canada. The Alaska cedar grows to a height of around 25 m and its wood is attractively light in colour. The wood contains natural oils which make it very resistant to decay. As the wood is also considerably harder than that of other coniferous trees, mechanical wear is also minimal. The very light, silver-grey patina which develops with age also gives this type of wood particular visual appeal and makes it one of the most suitable types of wood for use in shingle production. Please note!Sawn Alaska cedar shingles, of the very best quality, with a thickness of approx. 15-17 mm , conical, with bevel, approx. 45 cm in length, have been tested in accordance with test certificate 16-19378 for resistance to flying sparks and radiant heat in accordance with DIN 4102 Section 7. A roof with these shingles is therefore a fire rated roof covering.
	Norway spruce (Picea abies)This evergreen tree grows to a height of 40 m and is widespread throughout Europe. The very light heartwood splits well. Shingles made from this wood are mainly used in areas where there is a tradition of painted shingles. This is in any case always recommended as it does not contain any naturally protective substances.
	Hornbeam (Carpinus betulus)This broad-leaved tree is widespread throughout the whole of Europe, with the exception of Spain and Portugal. The yellow to brownish coreless wood is tough and hard. This wood is mainly used to produce decorative sawn shingles. A chemical wood preservative is recommended to provide protection against fungus as this wood does not contain any protective substances.