How to Maintain Your Cedar Shake Roof
Cedar is a durable wood lasting anywhere from 25 to 100 years. The cedar shake roof is one of the most popular roofing choices because of its natural beauty and durability. But, like any other wood, cedar is damaged with time and exposure to the elements. This article will give tips and tricks to maintain your cedar shake roof.
· Remove debris from your cedar roof, including leaves, moss, and needles.
One of the most important ways to care for a cedar roof is to remove debris. These include leaves, moss, and needles. Cedar roofs should be cleaned at least every year, so debris should be removed before it can build up and cause damage. To remove the debris, you can use a rake or a broom. Then, use a garden hose to rinse the roof down before you use a squeegee to dry it off.
· Clean the gutters to prevent moisture from being held in
The gutters or the pipes collect water from your roof and send it to the downspout. They can become clogged with debris, which can cause moisture to be held in. To prevent this, clean the gutters to maintain your cedar shingles.
· Clean the roof surface by power washing
To maintain the cedar shake roof, it is important to clean the roof’s surface by power washing it. Power washing uses high-pressure water to remove dirt, dust, and debris from a surface. The cedar shake roof surface should be cleaned yearly to prevent mold growth. To power wash your cedar shake roof, simply fill the pressure washer with clear and attach a garden hose to the pressure washer nozzle. Turn on the power washer and spray down the surface of your cedar shake roof.
· Remove overhanging branches.
Overhanging branches can ruin the appearance of your cedar shakes and make them look unsightly. To maintain the beauty of your cedar shakes, you should remove any overhanging branches. First, find a pair of garden shears. Then, use your shears to cut the branches from the tree as close to the trunk as possible. If you cannot reach the branches from the ground, use a ladder or a step stool to reach them, or contact a professional to do the work for you!
· Replace any rotten shingles.
Decaying shingles constitute one of the most frequent issues with the roof because it leads to water damage and mold growth. The roof is a very important part of your house, so it is vital that you keep it in good condition. If you notice that the shingles on your roof are beginning to rot or have holes, it’s time to contact a roofer.
· Carefully inspect for cracks to maintain your cedar shakes.
Cedar shakes are a beautiful addition to any home. Cedar is a natural wood resistant to rot, decay, and insects. Cedarwood has a beautiful scent that is said to last for years. But, like any other wood, cedar shakes need to be maintained. When you purchase cedar shakes, it is important that you inspect the wood for any cracks before you take it home. If there are cracks, the shakes could be damaged and not last as long as they should.
· Remove Vegetation
Due to mold and weathering, vegetation tends to develop on roofs over time, making them look worn out. You should eliminate the vegetation encroaching on your cedar shakes if it makes them look shabby. A hand-held trimmer or a weed wacker can chop the plants off at the base of the cedar shake to eliminate them.
Symptoms of a Damaged Cedar Shake Roof
As the saying goes, “An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.” That’s why it’s important to check your cedar shake roof for damage. Damage can occur from hail, high winds, or even just the natural wear and tear of the home. If you see any damage, the best thing to do is to have a professional look. Signs your cedar shake roof is damaged include:
· Excessive curling, cupping, or splitting of shingles
Your roof is probably damaged if you’ve discovered that your cedar shakes are curling or cupping. The shingles are intended to be tight and flat, so if they are broken, the roof won’t be able to shed water as well and would likely curl or cup. If a recent storm has caused damage to your roof, you should contact a contractor to have it inspected and repaired so that the damage does not worsen.
· Punctures or erosion
Rough edges, white areas, and tiny holes are indications that your cedar shake needs to be fixed. It is crucial to see an expert right away if you detect these problems. An expert will be able to determine whether the cedar shake can be saved and whether the damage is only superficial.
· Rot or moss growing on the bottom edge and between shingles or shakes
It is recommended to replace the shingles or shakes if you notice rotten wood or moss at the bottom edge of your roof. If the damage does not warrant replacing your roof, you might use a stiff brush, a pail of water, and a hose to remove the moss or rotten material.
· Leaks
Heavy rainfall can lead to leaks in your cedar roof. To fix this issue, you need to take some time to sand down the cedar and clean up any dirt and debris that have gathered. You should also use a sealant or a new coat of paint to help stop future leaks from happening.
Conclusion
To conclude, properly maintaining your cedar shake roof can help you save time and money in the long run. Regular inspections and repairs are essential for keeping your cedar shake roof in top shape and lasting as long as possible.
Longhouse Cedar is an excellent choice for those looking for quality materials to replace their existing roof or add a new one. With our wide selection of custom-cut forest products, Longhouse Cedar can provide the perfect fit for your home’s needs! So don’t delay – contact us at 1-800-811-2010 to start crafting the perfect roof for your dream home!