How To Maintain And Care For Your Cedar Shake Shingles Roof

A cedar shake shingles roof is an attractive and durable feature of any home. It’s important to maintain it properly to ensure your roof lasts for many years to come. In this article, we’ll discuss how to care for and maintain your cedar shake shingles roof so you can enjoy its beauty and keep it in great condition.

Understanding Your Roof

Having a cedar shake shingles roof is an investment that needs to be properly cared for in order to ensure its longevity. It’s important to understand what kind of roof you have, how it works, and how to maintain it. By taking the time to understand your roof, you can help ensure that it will last for years to come.

Cedar shake shingles are made from split logs of western red cedar, which makes them naturally resistant to rot and decay and provides insulation from extreme temperatures. They are also known for their aesthetic qualities, as they offer a rustic look that adds character and charm to any home or building.

In order for your cedar shake shingles roof to last, regular maintenance is required including cleaning, inspections, repair, and replacement of damaged components. With proper care and maintenance, your cedar shake shingles roof can provide protection for many years.

Advantages Of Cedar Shake Shingles

Cedar shake shingles are a great choice for roofing materials due to their numerous advantages. They offer superior protection against the elements, as well as being aesthetically pleasing. Cedar shingles are naturally insect and decay resistant, helping them last longer than other types of roofing materials.

Furthermore, they provide excellent insulation, keeping your home cooler in summer and warmer in winter while also lowering energy costs. The natural color of cedar is also highly attractive, adding a unique beauty to any home or building.

In addition to these advantages, cedar shake shingle roofs require very little maintenance compared to other types of roofs. They do not need frequent cleaning or coating with sealants like asphalt shingles do; instead, they can be washed off with a hose once a year and left alone for many years at a time without needing further attention. This makes cedar shake roofs an ideal choice for anyone looking for an easy-care roof that will last for many years with minimal effort.

Cleaning And Inspecting Your Roof

It is important to keep your cedar shake shingles roof clean and inspected regularly. Here are some ways you can do that:

• Clean the roof with a soft brush and a garden hose every 6 months. Make sure to remove all debris, leaves, twigs, etc., from the surface of the shingles as well as any nearby gutters or valleys.
• Inspect for signs of wear or decay in your shingles, such as curling or cracking. If you find any damage, replace the damaged shingle right away.
• Look for signs of water damage on your roof such as blistering paint or sagging gutters or eaves. Repair any water damage before it gets worse and causes further problems to your roof system.
• Check for moss growth on your roof since this can cause moisture buildup which can lead to wood rot and other issues down the line. If you see any moss, use a moss-killer treatment to keep it under control and prevent further damage to your roof system.

These simple steps will help keep your cedar shake shingles roof looking good and functioning properly for many years to come. Regular cleaning and inspection will also help ensure that any potential issues are caught early so they don’t become major problems later on down the line.

Protecting Your Roof From The Elements

Now that you have cleaned and inspected your cedar shake shingles roof, it’s time to focus on protecting it from the elements. The most important thing to remember is that cedar shake roofs need to be maintained regularly in order to preserve their longevity and keep them looking great. Here are some ways you can protect your roof:

First, keep an eye on gutters and downspouts for debris or clogs. Cleaning these out regularly will help ensure water doesn’t back up onto the roof and cause potential damage. Additionally, check for any loose shingles or buckling shingles, as these may indicate a problem with the underlying structure of the roof. If left unchecked, this can lead to further structural problems down the line.

It’s also important to look at the trim around skylights, chimneys, and other protrusions on your roof. These areas can be especially vulnerable to water damage if not properly sealed against weather exposure. 

Lastly, make sure that any trees near your home are trimmed back so they don’t scrape against or hang over your roof – this could cause serious damage in high winds or heavy rains. Taking care of these tasks will help ensure that your cedar shake shingles remain in good condition for years to come.

Repairs And Maintenance Tips

Maintaining and caring for your cedar shake shingles roof requires regular upkeep to keep it in optimal condition. Here are some tips that will help you keep your roof in top shape:

• Inspect your roof at least twice a year, preferably in the spring and fall. Look for signs of wear, such as cracking or missing shingles, and repair them immediately.
• Make sure to clean your roof of debris, such as leaves and branches, on a regular basis. This will help prevent water from pooling on the roof and causing rot or mold growth.
• Keep an eye out for signs of damage caused by animals or insects, such as holes in the shingles. If you find any, contact a professional to inspect and repair the damage as soon as possible.

Regular maintenance of your cedar shake shingles roof is essential to its longevity and performance. Taking care of minor repairs quickly can save you from having to replace the entire roof eventually. With proper care and maintenance, you can ensure that your roof will remain in good condition for years to come.

Conclusion

Asphalt roofs may still be the most common roofing material used in the US, but cedar shake shingles have a distinct charm and come with many benefits as well. While they require more regular maintenance than some other materials, you can make your cedar shake shingle roof last for decades with the right care.

Regular inspections, cleaning with a soft brush or power washer, and removing debris and moss will ensure your cedar shake roof stays healthy and looks sharp. If you spot any signs of damage repair it soon to avoid further issues from arising. If you would like more information on how to maintain and care for your cedar shake shingle roof, consider contacting Big Easy Roofers. Our experienced experts can provide advice and help you determine what steps are necessary to ensure your cedar shake shingle roof remains in tip-top shape for years to come. Contact us today!