DIY Shingles For Wood Processing (Red Pine Shingle Jig Tips)

Why Red Pine for Shingles?

Red pine offers a unique combination of properties that make it well-suited for shingle production.

Durability: Red pine is naturally resistant to decay and insect damage, ensuring a long lifespan for your shingles.
Workability: It’s relatively easy to split and shape, making it a user-friendly choice for DIY projects.
Availability: In many regions, red pine is readily available, often harvested sustainably from local forests.
Aesthetics: The reddish-brown hue of red pine adds a warm, natural look to any building.

From my experience, red pine shingles, when properly installed and maintained, can last for 50 years or more.

The Shingle Jig: Your Key to Consistency

The shingle jig is an essential tool for anyone serious about making their own shingles. It ensures consistent dimensions and angles, resulting in a professional-looking finished product. A well-designed jig simplifies the splitting and shaping process, making it faster and more efficient.

Types of Shingle Jigs

There are several types of shingle jigs available, ranging from simple homemade designs to more elaborate commercially produced models.

Simple Wedge Jig: This is the most basic type, consisting of a wedge-shaped piece of wood that guides the splitting of the shingle blank.
Adjustable Jig: These jigs allow you to adjust the angle and thickness of the shingle, providing greater flexibility in your design.
Powered Jig: Some jigs incorporate a powered splitter or saw, making the process even faster and easier.

For this guide, I’ll focus on using a simple, adjustable jig that you can easily build yourself.

Building Your Own Adjustable Shingle Jig

Building your own shingle jig is a relatively straightforward project that requires basic woodworking skills and readily available materials.

Materials Needed:

Hardwood: A sturdy hardwood such as oak or maple is ideal for the jig’s frame (approximately 2′ x 4′ piece).
Adjustable Wedge: A piece of hardwood for the adjustable wedge (approximately 6″ x 12″).
Fasteners: Screws, bolts, and washers for assembling the jig.
Measuring Tools: Ruler, square, and protractor.
Cutting Tools: Saw (circular saw or hand saw).
Drilling Tools: Drill and drill bits.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Cut the Frame: Cut the hardwood into the desired dimensions for the frame. A rectangular frame of approximately 2′ x 4′ is a good starting point.
Assemble the Frame: Assemble the frame using screws and glue, ensuring that it is square and sturdy.
Create the Adjustable Wedge: Cut the hardwood for the adjustable wedge into a wedge shape. The angle of the wedge will determine the taper of the shingle.
Attach the Wedge to the Frame: Attach the adjustable wedge to the frame using bolts and washers. This will allow you to adjust the angle of the wedge as needed.
Test and Adjust: Test the jig with a piece of red pine and adjust the wedge until you achieve the desired shingle thickness and taper.

Pro-Tip: Consider adding a clamping mechanism to hold the shingle blank securely in place during splitting.

Selecting and Preparing Your Red Pine Logs

Choosing the right logs is crucial for producing high-quality shingles.

Log Selection Criteria:

Straight Grain: Look for logs with straight, consistent grain. This will make splitting easier and result in stronger shingles.
Minimal Knots: Avoid logs with numerous or large knots, as these can weaken the shingles and make them more prone to splitting.
Appropriate Diameter: Logs with a diameter of 12-18 inches are generally ideal for shingle production.
Seasoning: Freshly cut (green) wood is easier to split than seasoned wood. If using seasoned wood, consider soaking it in water for a few days to soften it.

Log Preparation:

Bucking: Cut the logs into manageable lengths, typically 2-3 feet long.
Splitting: Split the logs into quarters or smaller sections using a splitting axe or maul. This will make it easier to work with the wood.
Debarking: Remove the bark from the sections using a drawknife or bark spud. This will improve the appearance of the shingles and prevent decay.

The Shingle-Making Process: Step-by-Step

Now that you have your jig and prepared wood, it’s time to start making shingles.

Step 1: Creating the Shingle Blanks

The first step is to create shingle blanks, which are rectangular pieces of wood that will be further shaped into shingles.

Place the Wood in the Jig: Place a section of red pine in the shingle jig, ensuring that it is securely held in place.
Split the Blank: Use a froe and mallet to split a shingle blank from the section of wood. The jig will guide the froe, ensuring a consistent thickness and angle.
Repeat: Repeat this process until you have a sufficient number of shingle blanks.

Step 2: Shaping the Shingles

Once you have the shingle blanks, you can begin shaping them into their final form.

Trim the Edges: Use a drawknife or axe to trim the edges of the shingle blank, creating a smooth, even surface.
Taper the Shingle: Adjust the wedge on the jig to the desired angle and use the froe and mallet to taper the shingle. The thicker end of the shingle will be the butt, while the thinner end will be the top.
Create the Butt Cut: Use a saw to create a clean, square cut on the butt end of the shingle.

Step 3: Finishing the Shingles

After shaping the shingles, there are a few finishing touches you can add.

Smoothing: Use a block plane or sandpaper to smooth any rough edges or surfaces.
Preservation: Consider treating the shingles with a wood preservative to further enhance their durability and resistance to decay. Options include copper naphthenate or borate-based preservatives.
Drying: Allow the shingles to air dry completely before installation. This will prevent warping and cracking.

Personal Story: I remember one time, I rushed the drying process and installed shingles that were still slightly damp. Within a few months, they started to warp and buckle, requiring me to redo a significant portion of the roof. Lesson learned: patience is key!

Shingle Dimensions and Specifications

While shingle dimensions can vary depending on your specific needs and preferences, there are some general guidelines to follow.

Length: 16-24 inches
Width: 4-12 inches
Thickness (Butt): 1/2 – 3/4 inch
Taper: From butt to top

These dimensions are based on industry standards and my own experience. However, feel free to experiment and adjust them to suit your project.

Installing Your Red Pine Shingles

Proper installation is crucial for ensuring the longevity and performance of your shingles.

Key Considerations:

Overlap: Overlap each shingle by at least one-third of its length. This will provide adequate protection from the elements.
Fasteners: Use corrosion-resistant nails or staples to secure the shingles to the roof or siding.
Spacing: Leave a small gap between shingles to allow for expansion and contraction.
Underlayment: Install a layer of roofing felt or other underlayment beneath the shingles to provide an extra layer of protection.

Step-by-Step Installation Guide:

Prepare the Surface: Ensure that the roof or siding surface is clean, dry, and free of debris.
Install the Underlayment: Install the underlayment according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Start at the Bottom: Begin installing the shingles at the bottom edge of the roof or siding, working your way upwards.
Overlap and Fasten: Overlap each shingle by the desired amount and fasten it securely with nails or staples.
Stagger the Joints: Stagger the joints between shingles to prevent water from seeping through.
Continue Until Complete: Continue installing shingles until the entire surface is covered.

Expert Advice: Use a chalk line to ensure that each row of shingles is straight and even.

Maintaining Your Red Pine Shingle Roof or Siding

With proper care and maintenance, your red pine shingle roof or siding can last for many years.

Maintenance Tips:

Regular Inspections: Inspect the roof or siding regularly for signs of damage, such as cracked or missing shingles.
Cleaning: Clean the shingles periodically to remove moss, algae, or other debris. A gentle scrub brush and a mild detergent solution are usually sufficient.
Re-treatment: Re-treat the shingles with a wood preservative every few years to maintain their resistance to decay.
Repairing Damage: Repair any damaged shingles promptly to prevent further deterioration.

Safety Precautions

Working with wood processing tools and machinery can be dangerous if proper safety precautions are not followed.

Essential Safety Measures:

Wear Safety Gear: Always wear safety glasses, gloves, and hearing protection when working with wood processing tools.
Use Sharp Tools: Sharp tools are safer than dull tools, as they require less force and are less likely to slip.
Maintain Your Tools: Keep your tools in good working condition and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for maintenance.
Work in a Safe Environment: Ensure that your work area is well-lit, clean, and free of hazards.
Stay Focused: Avoid distractions and concentrate on the task at hand.
Know Your Limits: Don’t attempt tasks that are beyond your skill level or physical capabilities.

Troubleshooting Common Problems

Even with careful planning and execution, you may encounter some challenges during the shingle-making process.

Common Issues and Solutions:

Shingles Splitting: This can be caused by using wood that is too dry or by using too much force when splitting. Try soaking the wood in water or using a lighter touch.
Inconsistent Thickness: This can be caused by an improperly adjusted jig or by inconsistent splitting technique. Adjust the jig and practice your splitting technique.
Warping: This can be caused by improper drying. Ensure that the shingles are air-dried completely before installation.
Decay: This can be caused by using wood that is not naturally resistant to decay or by improper installation. Use red pine or another durable wood species and treat the shingles with a wood preservative.

Environmental Considerations

Making your own shingles from locally sourced wood is an environmentally friendly alternative to mass-produced options.

Sustainable Practices:

Sustainable Harvesting: Ensure that the wood you use is harvested sustainably from well-managed forests.
Reduce Waste: Minimize waste by using as much of the log as possible.
Recycle Scrap Wood: Recycle any scrap wood or sawdust.
Use Eco-Friendly Preservatives: Choose wood preservatives that are environmentally friendly and safe for human health.

Case Study: My Own Shingle Project

A few years ago, I decided to re-roof my workshop using red pine shingles that I made myself. It was a challenging but ultimately rewarding project.

The Project:

Objective: To replace the existing asphalt shingles on my workshop with red pine shingles.
Materials: Locally sourced red pine logs.
Tools: Homemade shingle jig, froe, mallet, drawknife, saw, nails, hammer.
Timeframe: Several weeks of evenings and weekends.

The Process:

I started by harvesting the red pine logs from a nearby forest with the landowner’s permission. I then transported the logs to my workshop and began the process of splitting, shaping, and drying the shingles.

The most challenging part was maintaining consistency in the shingle dimensions. It took some practice to get the hang of using the jig and splitting the wood evenly.

Once the shingles were dry, I began the installation process. I carefully overlapped each shingle and fastened it securely to the roof.

The Results:

The finished roof looked fantastic. The red pine shingles added a warm, natural look to my workshop, and I knew that they would last for many years to come.

The project not only saved me money but also gave me a sense of accomplishment. I had transformed raw materials into something beautiful and functional, and I had done it myself.

The Economics of DIY Shingles

Making your own shingles can save you a significant amount of money compared to buying commercially produced shingles.

Cost Comparison:

Commercially Produced Shingles: \$3-\$5 per square foot
DIY Shingles: \$1-\$2 per square foot (including the cost of materials and tools)

These figures are based on average prices and my own experience. However, the actual cost savings will vary depending on your specific circumstances.

In addition to the direct cost savings, making your own shingles can also provide other economic benefits, such as reducing your reliance on external suppliers and supporting local economies.

Advanced Techniques and Considerations

Once you’ve mastered the basics of shingle making, you can explore some more advanced techniques and considerations.

Advanced Techniques:

Decorative Shingles: Experiment with different shapes and patterns to create decorative shingles.
Steamed Shingles: Steaming the wood before splitting can make it easier to bend and shape.
Preservative Treatments: Explore different wood preservative treatments to enhance the durability and longevity of your shingles.

Other Considerations:

Local Building Codes: Check with your local building department to ensure that your shingle installation complies with all applicable codes and regulations.
Insurance: Contact your insurance company to ensure that your shingle roof or siding is covered by your homeowner’s insurance policy.
Resale Value: Keep in mind that a well-maintained shingle roof or siding can increase the resale value of your property.

The Future of DIY Shingles

As more and more people become interested in sustainable living and DIY projects, the demand for DIY shingles is likely to increase.

Trends to Watch:

Increased Availability of Tools and Resources: As the popularity of DIY shingles grows, more tools and resources will become available to support the process.
New Materials and Techniques: New materials and techniques will emerge, making shingle making even easier and more efficient.
Greater Awareness of Environmental Benefits: As people become more aware of the environmental benefits of DIY shingles, they will be more likely to choose this option.

Conclusion: Embrace the Craft of Shingle Making

Making your own red pine shingles is a rewarding and sustainable way to add beauty and durability to your home or other structures. It’s a craft that connects you to the natural world, allows you to express your creativity, and saves you money.

While it requires some effort and skill, the results are well worth it. With the help of a shingle jig, some basic woodworking tools, and a little patience, you can create shingles that will last for generations.

So, gather your materials, build your jig, and embark on this fulfilling journey. I hope this guide has provided you with the knowledge and inspiration you need to succeed. Happy shingle making!