Cedar Shake Roof Maintenance
Cedar Roof Maintenance in Alabama and the Florida Panhandle
Homesouth Roofing has over 25 years of experience providing outstanding roofing services. We pride ourselves on our professionalism and can deliver results no matter the project. Our team offers comprehensive cedar roof maintenance throughout Alabama and the Florida Panhandle. Proper installation with adequate ventilation and underlayment ensures that cedar shake roofs stay durable and water-resistant. Good attic ventilation prevents heat buildup and moisture retention, which can extend the lifespan of the shakes. While cedar is an outstanding roofing surface known for its beauty and durability, it requires regular care to keep it looking great. We extend the life of your roof and maintain your status as the pride of your neighborhood. Our roofs specialize in performing all projects up to code and manufacturer specifications.
What is Cedar Shingle Roof Maintenance?
One of the reasons so many customers trust cedar roofs is longevity. High-quality cedar shakes will last 30 to 50 years. Premium-grade cedar shakes are made from western red cedar or Alaskan Yellow Cedar and are more durable and resistant to rot. Even average cedar shakes have a 20 to 30-year lifespan. Knowing how often to clean a cedar roof is crucial to avoid common problems like rot, moss growth, and structural damage. Cedar shakes are vulnerable to wet and humid climates, so it is essential to keep up with maintenance when you do not live in a dry or temperate location. Avoid costly repairs by performing the following roof maintenance:
- Remove Debris: Remove debris regularly – especially after storms. Branches, moss, and algae can cause significant problems. Performing vegetation removal as you notice it is critical. We can help by using our expertise to clean your roof safely. Keep an eye on overhanging branches, too. It might be a good idea to remove them.
- Clean the Gutters: Gutter cleaning is an important task no matter what kind of roof you have, but it is imperative if you have a cedar shake roof. Your gutters divert rainwater from the roof to the ground and away from the foundation. If there are blockages, water will pool at the roof level and rot or deteriorate the shakes.
- Clean the Surface: Cedar is a gorgeous roofing material when it is clean. But that isn’t the case when it is grimy and dirty. We recommend power washing your roof from time to time. This step will remove mosses or fungi, improving your roof’s appearance and durability. Our roof maintenance services can help.
- Perform Regular Inspections: Our team has the experience to inspect your roof closely by getting on the surface and finding potential issues. We recommend professional inspections as we have the equipment to do roof work safely and the knowledge to implement the correct fixes.
How Can Protective Treatments Help With Cedar Roof Maintenance?
At Homesouth Roofing, we establish a regular program to address the issues you face with your cedar roof. Our services can prevent future problems by applying protective treatments that restore your roof and keep it looking and functioning as it should for years. With proper care and favorable conditions, your cedar shake roof will be beautiful and functional for decades. You can perform the following maintenance tasks to get the most out of your cedar roof:
Treat the cedar with water-repellent and anti-fungal treatments every five to seven years.
Inspect the roof for damaged or missing shakes and replace them immediately.
Common Treatments for Cedar Roof Maintenance
There is no shortage of things you can do to keep your roof in good shape. Homesouth Roofing has what you need to get the job done. Regular treatments protect the wood from moisture, UV rays, and insects. Treated roofs are less likely to have mold or mildew issues. This is especially true when your roof is mostly shaded because the risk of moss and algae increases without direct sunlight. Roofs in direct sunlight may also weather more quickly. Treating your roof will prevent issues and extend your roof’s lifespan. When it comes to products, there are plenty of options, including:
- Water-Repellent Preservatives: Water is the number one enemy of wood roofs. These products prevent water absorption and contain fungicides to prevent mold growth.
- Wood Preservatives: A wood preservative is similar to a water-repellent option but specifically targets rot and decay, two byproducts of lingering moisture.
- UV-Resistant Coatings: This maintenance product offers protection from UV rays, which cause wood to discolor and deteriorate.
- Insecticides: One of the benefits of choosing a cedar roof is its natural resistance to insects. However, a high-quality insecticide will provide extra protection.
Choosing the Right Stain for Cedar Shingle Roof Maintenance
Now that you have invested in treatments that prevent long-term roof damage, you can focus on appearance. Stains are one of the easiest and most cost-effective ways to do so. You can choose from several options, including:
- Oil-Based Stains: These stains penetrate the cedar and help prevent moisture damage, mold, and mildew. They also enhance your roof’s natural grain and color, making them one of the most popular choices.
- Semi-Transparent Stains: This type of stain balances protection and appearance. If you want to preserve the rustic charm of a cedar shake roof, there is no better way to do so than by investing in a semi-transparent stain.
- Solid-Color Stains: Solid-color stains will hide some of your roof’s natural grain. However, a solid-color finish is a good option if you care more about cedar roof shingle maintenance and protection. They’re durable and provide intense UV protection.
- Water-Based Stains: These eco-friendly stains are easy to apply and clean. They protect against the weather and dry quickly, making them a practical choice for maintaining a cedar shake roof.
What Will My Cedar Shakes Look Like in Six Months?
After about six months, a cedar shake roof will change in appearance. Fresh cedar has a reddish or golden hue. However, sun exposure and weather conditions will cause the shingles to age naturally over time. Usually, this means they change into a soft, silvery-gray color. Most homeowners find color shifts appealing, and the change is purely cosmetic. You should still look for issues like moss, algae, or debris damage. You should also perform regular cedar shingle roof maintenance to maintain good working order.
How Well Do Cedar Shakes Provide Insulation?
Cedar shake shingles provide excellent insulation. We recommend metal or asphalt shingles if you want a roofing material with premium heat retention, but cedar shake shingles are up to the task. They regulate temperature and reflect heat during hot weather. High-quality cedar shakes will save you and your family money on utility bills. During the colder months, cedar is a sound barrier against cold weather.
Why Does Cedar Roof Shingle Maintenance Matter?
We offer an impressive range of residential roofs. Some people prefer the simple maintenance that goes with an asphalt or metal roof. But sometimes, a little hard work is worth it. Staying up to date on your cedar roof shingle maintenance will ensure you enjoy the full range of benefits of owning a cedar roof, which include:
- A Nature-Inspired Look
- Timeless Character
- Curb Appeal
- Rich Textures
- Excellent Insulation
- Resistance to Insects and Decay
Place Your Trust in Our Team for Cedar Shake Maintenance
Our team is excited to work on a cedar roof maintenance plan with you and your family. We will be your partner in a long-lasting, gorgeous roof that makes your home stand out from the rest of the neighborhood. We offer emergency roofing after storms, and our team can perform any repairs we think you need. We’re skilled and pride ourselves on building strong relationships with customers like you. Contact us today for a free estimate.