Spelter shakes is a roofing material that has gained popularity in recent years. The word "spelter" is derived from the German word "spelterz", which means zinc. The first syllable of "spelter" is pronounced with a short "e" sound, as in "bed". The second syllable is pronounced with a long "e" sound, as in "beet". "Shakes" is pronounced with the sound "sh" followed by a long "a" sound, as in "stake". The phonetic transcription of this word is spɛltər ʃeɪks.
Spelter shakes refers to a type of roofing material, commonly seen in the form of shingles or tiles, that is made from spelter, a specialized zinc alloy. Spelter is a durable and corrosion-resistant material commonly used in construction and metalworking. Spelter shakes are designed to protect a structure's roof from rain, snow, and other weather elements.
These roofing shakes are distinctive due to their overlapping shapes, which provide a seamless and watertight barrier. They are typically installed in a staggered pattern, with each shake overlapping the one below it to prevent water infiltration and ensure proper drainage.
Spelter shakes have gained popularity due to their attractive appearance, often imitating the charming aesthetics of traditional wooden shakes. The shiny, metallic finish of spelter shakes lends a modern and sleek appearance to a building, adding elegance and curb appeal.
One of the primary advantages of spelter shakes is their longevity. They are incredibly durable and can last for several decades when installed correctly and maintained regularly. Additionally, spelter shakes are resistant to fire, rot, insects, and other common issues faced by traditional roofing materials.
Overall, spelter shakes are an exceptional roofing choice for those seeking a durable, low-maintenance, and aesthetically pleasing option.
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A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
There is no specific etymology for the term "spelter shakes" as it does not seem to have a widely recognized or documented origin. However, it can be inferred that the term combines two words and their respective meanings:
1. Spelter: Refers to a zinc alloy, usually consisting of zinc mixed with small amounts of other metals. It can be molten and used for casting or formed into plates or sheets.
2. Shakes: In the context of roofing, "shakes" generally refers to wooden shingles or tiles, often made from split logs. It can also be a term used to describe any manner of fragmentation, particularly when referring to roofing materials.
Based on this, "spelter shakes" could possibly be interpreted as a term referring to roofing tiles or shingles made from spelter or a zinc alloy.