
06/27/2025
🌿 How to Build a Bamboo Shingle Roof (Tejamaniles de Bambú)
This construction method uses split bamboo shingles, offering a sustainable and traditional roofing solution. Illustrated by Oscar Hidalgo López in the Manual de Construcción con Bambú, this guide shows the steps from bamboo prep to full roof coverage.
---
🪚 Step-by-Step Guide
1. Preparing the Bamboo Shingles
Cut full bamboo canes (Fig. a) into manageable lengths (40–60 cm).
Clean the inner nodes and split the cane lengthwise into halves (Fig. b & c).
Shape the ends—flat or angled—for overlap and better water runoff (Fig. d & e).
Recommended width: 5 cm to 12 cm.
2. Assembling the Roof Framework
Use horizontal bamboo laths (latas) or purlins (correas) as support beams.
Mount them evenly across the bamboo structure.
3. Placing the Tejamaniles (Fig. f)
Place shingles with the curved face down, mimicking Spanish tiles.
Position in overlapping rows, starting from the bottom (eaves) moving upward to the ridge.
Alternate inner and outer halves for better waterproofing and strength.
At the ridge, finish with wooden or bamboo capping.
---
🛠️ Practical Tips
Keep a consistent shingle overlap to prevent leaks.
Bamboo must be properly treated against insects and humidity.
Angle-cut tips help improve runoff and reduce splash-back.
---
🎨 Credit
Design and construction method by Oscar Hidalgo López, Universidad Nacional de Colombia – Facultad de Artes, CIBAM.
---