A shingle is a flat, thin piece of material used to cover roofs and walls. Traditionally made from wood, shingles can also be made from asphalt, metal, or slate. They are designed to overlap each other, providing protection against weather elements like rain and snow. Shingles help to insulate buildings and enhance their appearance. In addition to roofing, shingles can refer to a type of skin rash caused by the varicella-zoster virus, which also causes chickenpox. This condition, known as herpes zoster, results in painful blisters and can occur in individuals who have previously had chickenpox. Vaccines are available to reduce the risk of developing shingles.