As Good Wood Should: Cedar Shake Roof Maintenance

Just like any other roofing system, a cedar shake roof requires periodic maintenance. However, cedar shakes require special attention.

Some recommend high-pressure washing or “powerwashing” the cedar roof, albeit it can damage the latter if not applied properly. As much as possible, a professional should assess the roofing system on a case-to-case basis if it qualifies for powerwashing. The assessment entails factors such as the age of the roof, gallons sprayed per minute, and pressure per square inch.

Moreover, if the cedar roof retains moisture, fungi infestation or mold growth can occur. Those, in turn, can compromise the integrity of the shakes and lead to water and structural damage. That scenario can be resolved by cleaning out the moisture and removing the infestations, which allows the roof to breathe again.

Another way to maintain the cedar roofing is to use a water repellent treatment product to clean and preserve the cedar wood. Professionals recommend using an EPA-registered wood preservative and checking its material safety data sheet for precautions. With proper maintenance, a cedar roof can last from 40 to 60 years – or even more.

While some homeowners can do these maintenance methods their own, it helps to call certified roofers to do the job. This ensures superior and long lasting results to preserve the durability and aesthetics of the cedar shakes.

Tips to Help You Choose a Roofing Contractor

Searching for contractors to help you repair or replace your roof can be a daunting task. Fortunately, there are many ways to sift through a number of roofing companies until you finally find the most reliable one. Here are some practical tips to help you with your research:

1. Look into the company details and history or track record.

Check the address, tax ID, business registration/license, and liability insurance of a contractor, among other credentials. Confirm the credibility of the contractor by consulting relevant local boards and organizations such as the Better Business Bureau. Find out whether there have been any complaints or legal actions taken against the company.

Once you have found a candidate, make sure the contractor provides you with client references, warranties on materials and workmanship, a reasonable and detailed written estimate, and comprehensive information regarding their processes and services.

2. Go for eco-friendly roofing and siding contractors.

Eco-friendly companies are those that suggest the use of cedar shingles and shakes, as these are durable, renewable, and bio-degradable. Before selecting a material, learn about the manufacturers that the contractors are affiliated with and determine whether or not their processes contribute to global warming. The roofing products or materials they offer should be lightweight and equipped with proper thermal insulation to increase home value and curb appeal.

Why Homeowners Should Choose Wooden Shake Roofing

Many materials have been developed specifically to serve as building materials due to their robust quality. Materials such as cement, steel, and even fiberglass make for very strong and long-lasting construction components, and many modern buildings are built using these. However, once in a while, natural components made from wood make for fine materials as well.

The roof is one part of the house that is constantly subjected to the elements, and homeowners will definitely want a superior material over their heads to protect themselves. Wooden shakes made from cedar might not strike some people as tough roofing components, yet the material can be surprisingly hardy. When treated with chemicals, cedar roofing can resist fire and be reasonably waterproof as well.

Homeowners should consider cedar roofing, not just for its improved durability, but also for its beauty. Wooden shakes are a timeless classic, and will give any home a warm and inviting look. It also helps that wooden shakes have superior insulation properties to prevent excess heat from entering or escaping the house. The next time you are deciding on what type of roof to install, you might want to give wooden shakes a chance. You will be pleasantly surprised with what wood has to offer.