Wood Shake Roof, Cedar Shake Roof and Wood Shake Shingles

For centuries, wood shakes have been among the most popular roofing options for homeowners across the country. They offer historic homes a classic, beautiful appearance that’s unrivaled by many types of modern roofing materials. 

Unfortunately, wood shake shingles aren’t quite as durable as they are beautiful. Wood deteriorates over time, so your shingles will require regular maintenance every two to three years. 

If you have a wood shake roof, here are seven harmful or problematic issues to look out for that can cause costly damage to your home.

1. Rot

Unlike asphalt, metal, or stone, shake shingles are made from an organic material. Instead of repelling water, wood shake shingles soak up water from rain, hail, and snowstorms, making them more susceptible to rotting. 

When you’re trying to locate rot, look at the edges of your shingles near the gutters. Water tends to accumulate at this location. If you can see split, broken, or frayed shingles from the ground, it’s almost always a sign that rot is already present.

2. Moss and Mildew Growth

Like rot, moss and mildew both appear when moisture is present on your roof.

Of course, moss and mildew are unsightly and can plummet your home’s resale value. However, these mossy growths can also compromise your home’s safety. In fact, it’s common for moss to grow in-between your cedar shake shingles, causing them to lift and leave your roof exposed to the elements.

3. Curling and Cupping Shingles

After years of exposure to the sun, your wood shake roof will begin the process of curling and cupping. Curling is when the shingle starts to develop lifted edges, so it’s no longer lying flat against the roof. Cupping is when the shingle becomes concave, forming a cup shape. 

Although curling and cupping are both a normal part of the aging process for wood shingles, they can cause detrimental damage to your roof if left unchecked. As your shingle lifts, it leaves the underlayment exposed to the elements. At this point, water can penetrate the roof decking easily and may require a complete roof replacement.

4. Split Shingles

Wood shake shingles are also prone to splitting. Often, shingle splitting is a gradual process that happens over many years. However, it’s also common for wood shingles to break during heavy hail, rain, or windstorms. 

Check for shingle damage after a big storm since many insurance companies will cover the cost of repairs. Also, contact a reliable roofing company that specializes in roof repair after storm damage. A professional roofer can help you determine how much destruction occurred during the storm and develop a plan to fix it.

5. Missing Shingles

Just as shingles can crack, spit, or break during storms—they can also blow off entirely. If you notice any bare spots on your roof, call a professional roofer immediately. Missing shingles leave your roof exposed to the elements and may cause costly water damage to your home if left unchecked.

6. Fire Hazard

Wood is flammable, which makes cedar shake roofing a fire hazard. Eliminate the risk of fire damage forever by investing in reliable replacement with fireproof roofing materials, like asphalt or stone-coated steel.

7. Frustrating Maintenance

Unlike other roofing materials, wood shingles are high maintenance. You’ll need to hire someone every two to three years to clean your roof with a power washer; remove leaves, twigs, and other debris; and repair curling, cupping, or broken shingles as needed. Unfortunately, maintenance and repair costs for cedar shake roofs can add up quickly.

We understand that roof repairs for wood shingles are expensive, which is why we offer reliable, affordable shake roof repair and maintenance.

However, if you don’t want to worry about the hassle of regular roof upkeep, we recommend investing in a roof replacement with low-maintenance roofing materials.

What’s the Best Way to Remedy Problems with My Wood Shake Roof?

If your wood shake roof is suffering damage, you’re left with two options—roof repair or roof replacement with a professional roofing company.

Christian Brothers Roofing completes wood shake roofing repair and maintenance, so you can know your home is protected. Wood shingle repair offers homeowners the following benefits:

• Longevity—Can double or triple your roof’s lifespan
• Added Value—Improves your home’s resale value
• Leak Protection—Minimizes water damage caused by leaks
• Pest Resistance—Prevents damage caused by insects, woodpeckers, and other pests

Regular maintenance is often a reliable option to care for wood shakes. However, your aging, damaged roof may require a complete replacement. Instead of replacing your current roofing with problematic cedar shingles, consider a full roof replacement with durable, modern materials. 

We specialize in roof replacements with asphalt shingles and stone-coated steel roofing to guarantee attractive, low-maintenance results you’ll love.

Preserve Your Wood Shakes with Reliable Roof Repair from Christian Brothers Roofing

If you suspect your shake roof is aging, damaged, or deteriorating, contact our team at Christian Brothers Roofing.

As the top roofing company in the Kansas City area, we’ll do whatever it takes to ensure your roof is protected—whether you need simple roof maintenance, roof repairs, or a beautiful, new asphalt or stone-coated steel roof.Learn more about the advantages of working with our friendly, professional team for reliable, long-lasting shake shingle repair.