Wood Shake Roofing

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Wood shake roofs are gaining in popularity for many reasons. First, wood shake, or specifically, cedar shake roofs, are stylishly distinctive. But, they need maintenance and the application of chemicals to keep them in good shape, i.e., permanently fire resistant. Clearly, wood shakes are not maintenance free.

Positive qualities of cedar shake roofs include their extreme wind resistance, the fact that they have twice the insulating value of standard asphalt, and the fact that they resist hail damage. They are also a prestigious roofing material, which has caused the roofing industry to develop simulated cedar shakes.

The enemies of cedar shakes are water and sunlight and while cedar contains naturally occurring chemicals that help to preserve the wood, called extractives, these chemicals dissolve easily in water. Cedar shake roofing can last without special treatment to add these chemicals back into the shakes for up to ten years, a short lifecycle compared with other roofing materials.

The key to maintaining a cedar shake roof is to keep it clean and free of moss, fungus, and debris so that when it rains, it will dry quickly. Tree branches should be kept clear of a shake roof.

The chemical preservatives are available for application by spraying to a clean, dry roof such that it can add dramatically to the lifecycle of the roof. Because of the dangers of slipping and falling inherent in roof maintenance, it makes sense to employ professionals to provide such service. Another maintenance measure that works well for cedar shake roofs is washing with oxygen bleach, in a powder form that mixes with water.

Though still relatively rare in new construction, wood shingle roofing is gaining popularity for high-end custom homes. A number of suppliers also provide realistic wood-shingle replicas in alternative materials.

Cost? Generally twice the cost of an asphalt roof. Lifespan? Generally 20 to 30 years. Shingles and shakes are often thought of as hard to differentiate, but in fact, are recognizably different. A shake is typically thicker than a shingle and provides a heavier shadow line. 

For installation questions or to get a free estimate, find a local, certified roofing contractor.

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