When the current shingles on your home grow worn out, faded, and otherwise simply unbearable to look at, you may have no other option but to invest in new roofing. While there are many roofing materials to choose from, you will be hard-pressed to find a more beautiful and rugged option than Cedar Shake Shingles.
This roofing material has been used for what seems like a millennium and has built quite a reputation for itself. But, will this roofing option stand the test of time and the relentlessness of Mother Nature?
Cedar Shake Shingles are a durable roofing option that can last upwards of 30 years if maintained properly, says Winfield Roofing Company of Annapolis (https://www.centralmarylandroofing.com/roofer-near/annapolis/). As the name suggests, the shingles are made of cedar which is a naturally rot-resistant wood species, so the shingles will not decay after years of abuse from rain and other elements.
Cedar Shake Shingles may be a large up-front investment but will pay itself off in years to come if maintained properly. Cedar Shake Shingles will often last twice as long as more conventional asphalt and metal type roofing.
You may have a few questions regarding maintenance that can be hard to answer if you do not know a professional, but we are here to help. Proper upkeep of your Cedar Shake Shingles will prolong their lifespan greatly, and if kept up with year after year, you may see your new roofing option live past the 30-year figure.
What is Detrimental to the Life Span of Cedar Shake Shingles?
Cedar is naturally rot-resistant, so water is not going to be a major issue to the lifespan of your shake shingles. However since it is wood, it is porous and provides the perfect nesting home for mold, mildew, and moss. Most manufacturers offer a preservative/treatment option during the crafting process that discourages any unwanted growth on the shingles. Taking advantage of this option will save you countless hours in the future.
What Kind of Maintenance Will Be Required for My New Roofing?
Since it is porous, cedar will grow molds or mildew if left unchecked. A simple solution is to routinely clean your Cedar Shake Shingles with a solution of one part bleach to three parts water. This solution can be added to a pressure washer to ease the labor involved. If this is the route that you wish to take, always remember to spray down the slope of your roof. Cleaning your new shingles should be done once a year for maximum lifespan.
On top of routine cleaning, it is recommended that you refinish your shingles every 5-7 years. Refinishing your shingles will effectively seal the pores within the wood so that mold/mildew growth is minimized. Stain or a clear, urethane solution is recommended by experts in the roofing industry.
Are There Any Treatment Options to Increase the Longevity of Cedar Shake Shingles?
Yes, there are many products available on the market that prolong the life of Cedar Shake Shingles. A roof preservative should be the first option that you consider. This preservative will protect the shingles from curling and splitting, and keep them looking pristine and fresh.
Another option to look into is a fungicide. These treatments will kill any molds/mildews that will inevitably grow within the pores of the cedar. If left unchecked these molds and mildews can cause the cedar shingles to soften and eventually decay.
One final suggested treatment to do a bit of research on is UV protection. Your roof takes a beating throughout the year from wind, rain, and other elements, but none is so harsh as the sun’s UV rays. UV protection will ensure that your new shingles will last their full lifespan and keep their beautiful luster.
How Can I Get a Cedar Shake Roof Installed?
Many businesses that distribute Cedar shake shingles will offer an installation service at a discounted rate if you bundle the service with the product. This is the most cost-efficient option, but if you are skeptical about the installation service, have no fear.
There are many roofing contractors consistently searching for their next job and would be ecstatic to provide you with their services. The only issue with this option is that you need to ensure the contractor has experience installing Cedar Shake Shingles. The installation of the shingles can make or break their lifespan, so they need to be installed by an expert within the field.
Wrapping Up
Cedar Shake Shingles can be a costly investment, but with a lifespan of 30+ years, you will save yourself a lot of money in the long run. This roofing option can easily outlive its asphalt and metal roofing counterparts if maintained properly.
Needless to say, maintenance plays a crucial role in the lifespan of Cedar Shake Shingles. However, many products on the market will assist the unwanted properties of the cedar. To make your Cedar Shake Shingles last for thirty or more years, take advantage of all the treatment options and stick to a routine maintenance schedule.
These simple solutions will assist in making your Cedar Shake Shingles last for 30+ years!