Nipa Roof Shingles are made from Nypa Fruticans, or nipa palms, which are not only abundant but also cost-effective in terms of indigenous construction materials. Nypa Fruticans grow beside the sea, in tidal flats or brackish swamps. They are often found in the Philippines and in many other parts of the Pacific and Southeast Asia. The leaves of mature Nipa Fruticans can grow to as high as 9 meters.
The shingles are made by drying palms and then binding these together in an intricate weaving pattern. For many, many years, vernacular housing in various parts of the Philippines have used these as roofing materials not only for its abundance but also for its features.
It is also easy to replace and entails minimum labor. It lets air through, and thus does not trap heat from inside the building even if it can let it in. Due to its permeability, it does not attract suction forces like the GI Sheet. And since the material is lightweight, it poses little to no danger during earthquakes, unlike much heavier material.
However, unlike the GI sheet, nipa requires regular annual maintenance. Shingles made from nipa can have a life span of around one to three years if not maintained. It can go much longer with regular maintenance. There’s also the issue of fireproofing, with the material easily combustible.
In common use, these materials are often found in nipa huts, resorts, and rural houses in the Philippines. They are totally taken for granted and are often thought of as a “poor man’s” roofing. However, purchasing such material can actually help the cottage industries of the Philippines and provides local livelihood opportunities.
References:
“Nipa thatching”. Humanitarian Shelter Working Group. Retrieved on August 13, 2020. https://www.sheltercluster.org/sites/default/files/docs/Key%20Messages%20Nipa%20V1.1.pdf