Hand-splitting isn't backwardness — it's superiority over sawn boards.
Why Split, Not Sawn
A saw cuts across wood fibers. Splitting follows the grain, keeping fibers intact. Split shingles repel water like duck feathers — fibers direct drops downward. Sawn shingles absorb water and rot 2–3 times faster.
Wood Selection
Cedar is best. Natural oils repel water and insects. Oak — heavier, stronger. Pine — cheapest, shortest lifespan. Wood must be straight-grained, knot-free.
Tools
A froe — an L-shaped splitting blade. A mallet. A splitting block. Three tools — all you need.
Technique
Saw logs into 40–60 cm bolts. Froe on end grain, strike with mallet. The froe enters and splits along grain. Twist as lever — shingle separates. Thickness 10–15 mm.
Lifespan
Cedar — 30–50 years. Oak — 20–30. Asphalt shingles — 15–25. Individual shingles can be replaced without touching the rest.