The History of Composition Shingles in Northern Nevada

When most Northern Nevada homeowners think of roofing, composition shingles are often the first material that comes to mind. Durable, affordable, and versatile, these shingles have become the region's go-to roofing solution. But how did composition shingles rise to dominance in Northern Nevada—and why are they still so popular today?

In this post, we’ll explore the history of composition shingles in the region, the unique demands of Northern Nevada’s climate, and how American Eagle Roofing continues to deliver roofing solutions rooted in both innovation and local experience.

What Are Composition Shingles?

Composition shingles, often called asphalt shingles, are made from a blend of materials including asphalt, fiberglass, and mineral granules. They were developed as a more affordable, fire-resistant alternative to wood shakes in the early 20th century.

The National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA) notes that asphalt shingles gained widespread popularity in the U.S. starting in the 1920s and 1930s, thanks to mass production techniques and evolving fire safety standards.

Arrival of Composition Shingles in Northern Nevada

In Northern Nevada, composition shingles began replacing traditional roofing materials like wood shakes and metal during the post-World War II housing boom. As suburban developments expanded across Reno, Sparks, Carson City, and rural areas like Fernley and Dayton, builders were drawn to the shingles’ ease of installation, fire resistance, and affordability.

This shift was especially important in areas affected by high desert conditions—strong winds, UV exposure, freezing winters, and summer heat. Homeowners needed a material that could withstand climate extremes without constant maintenance.

By the 1970s and 1980s, composition shingles had become the standard for both new construction and roof replacements throughout Northern Nevada.

Why They Work Well in Nevada’s Climate

Northern Nevada’s high desert environment presents a unique challenge for any roofing material:

• High UV exposure: The intense sun can degrade weaker roofing materials.
• Wind gusts: Winds exceeding 60 mph are common in many areas.
• Snow and freeze-thaw cycles: Roofs must resist ice damming and expansion damage.
• Low humidity: Prolongs the life of asphalt-based materials.

According to the Western Regional Climate Center, Northern Nevada's semi-arid climate is harsh on exterior building materials. Fortunately, modern architectural composition shingles are built for these conditions. Many brands now offer Class 4 impact resistance and 30–50-year lifespans.

Advancements in Shingle Technology

Since their early use in Nevada, composition shingles have undergone significant improvements. Today’s shingles include features like:

• Laminated (architectural) shingles for better wind and hail resistance
• Algae-resistant coatings to prevent streaking
• Cool roof technology to reflect sunlight and lower energy bills
• Improved adhesives and sealants to reduce wind uplift

Many modern shingles meet or exceed Nevada’s adopted International Residential Code (IRC) for wind resistance and fire rating, which are enforced locally by county and city building departments.

For details on these standards, visit the Nevada State Public Works Division.

Local Roofing in the Past and Present

Throughout the decades, composition shingles have remained a trusted roofing option in Northern Nevada. From 1950s ranch homes in Reno to newer developments in Spanish Springs or Gardnerville, the material has proven itself again and again.

At American Eagle Roofing, we’ve seen firsthand how far composition shingles have come—and how well they continue to perform in our unique environment. We’ve repaired, replaced, and installed thousands of shingle roofs across the region, helping homeowners choose products that meet both local codes and climate demands.

Why Composition Shingles Still Reign Supreme

Here’s why Northern Nevada homeowners still choose composition shingles today:

• Cost-effective without sacrificing performance
• Customizable aesthetics with colors and textures to fit any home
• Proven weather resistance for desert winters and summers
• Easy to repair or replace individual shingles

Whether you own a mid-century home in Carson City or a newer build in Fernley, composition shingles remain a top choice for performance and value.

Helpful Resources:

• NRCA: Asphalt Shingles Overview
• Western Regional Climate Center
• Nevada Public Works Division – Building Codes

‍