We wanted to spread the word about our shingles, so we figured — why not interview the guy who calls them “his baby”? (Don’t tell his actual children.)
Cristian de Rosa, Thermory Northeast Sales, has spent more time talking about our shingles than most people spend thinking about cladding, ever. And while we like to think our product speaks for itself, he makes a pretty compelling hype man.
So we sat down with him — or rather, tracked him down between job site visits — to talk about what makes Thermory Ash shingles so special, why they’re popping up everywhere from seaside homes to forest getaways, and how a little heat and steam can turn plain wood into something seriously extraordinary.
Why Thermory Ash? Let Cristian Explain.
“As soon as you pick up one of our shingles you can already feel that it is a much more solid alternative to a traditional cedar shingle.”
Thermory Ash is thermally modified using just heat and steam — no chemicals, no toxins. The result? A shingle that’s beautiful, sustainable, and way tougher than your average wood product.
First Impressions Matter.
“Thermory Ash shingles are a material that immediately grabs your attention and makes you say ‘What are those?’ They’re absolutely stunning and unlike any traditional wood shingle that you have ever seen.”
Whether they’re gleaming golden in the sun or weathered to that coveted silvery gray, these shingles know how to make a first impression — and a lasting one.
“They are routinely the first thing that people will gravitate towards on my table of samples.”
Not to brag but, they’re the favorite. Once an architect or builder gets their hands on them, they usually want a full sample set for their library. We’re not saying Cristian’s carrying the Thermory Ash economy, but let’s just say we’re keeping him stocked.
Let’s Talk Durability
“Cedar is a class 3 rot and durability rated material, which results in materials that will last around 12-15 years… Thermory Ash is a class 1 material, which will last for over 25 years.”
Translation: You’re getting a shingle that can handle decades of weather without flinching.
Oh, and did we mention how well they age?
“They silver BEAUTIFULLY on their own which gives you that traditional look without the maintenance.”
Installation 101: Do It Right
“Check the installation guide, use the right staples, and make sure you store them properly.”
Cristian has installed and advised on more shingle projects than we can count. His take? They aren’t fussy, but they do deserve respect. Like cedar, install them on furring strips or a cedar breather. Use narrow crown staples (ideally dull or non-chisel point), and you’ll be golden.
Where They Shine (Literally)
“I have the pleasure of visiting many North-Atlantic coastal towns… While that’s a perfect use-case, I would also love to see more shingle projects in the forests and mountain regions in my Northeastern states.”
These shingles look just as natural tucked into the pines of Vermont as they do catching sea spray in Maine. With modern designers embracing wood cladding in sleek, contemporary ways, shingles are making their mark in unexpected places — from rugged mountain retreats to Scandinavian-inspired minimalist homes.
Right now, we’re heading to the Atlantic Coast, where one of our largest installations is underway in Gloucester, Massachusetts. “It’s an excellent example of fine design and craftsmanship,” and we can’t wait to share the finished photos soon. Stay tuned!
Why the Surge in Wood Shingle Popularity?
Because people are moving on from plastic, composite, and disposable building products.
Here’s why Thermory Ash is getting attention:
Pros:
- No chemicals – just heat and steam
- Long lifespan (25+ years)
- Stable in tough climates
- Naturally rot- and mold-resistant
- Sustainably harvested
Best For:
- High-end coastal or mountain homes
- Sustainable new builds
- Homeowners and designers looking for warmth and texture
- Anyone who wants wood that won’t warp, cup, or rot
Sustainability That’s More Than a Slogan
“Every time I can share our materials and see a project go up with something natural and renewable… I feel like I put some points on the board for team sustainability.”
Let’s highlight that: Thermory Ash is durable, beautiful, and planet-friendly.
No tropical deforestation here — just responsibly harvested, thermally modified wood that goes the distance.
“More and more people are considering the environmental impact that their building products have on the environment. Thermory has proven to be the answer for these concerns on countless occasions.”
Real, lasting wood is here to stay. Let our shingles do the talking.
Learn more here – and meet the shingle Cristian swears by.
Image Credits: Elvo Jakobson. Flare Department.
