Blog

There are many options to choose from when you replace your roof. You could go with simple asphalt shingles, as they get the job done, but are you looking for something more aesthetically pleasing that will make the exterior pop?

Here’s your guide to cedar shake roofing. Find out if it’s right for you!

What Is Cedar Shake Roofing?

Cedar shake roofing is shingles made from split wood. Because of this, each shingle is unique in size and shape. Cedar shake has been used since the 1600s, when the colonists first started to settle in North America. It matches well with natural-looking exteriors like log cabins.

Benefits of Cedar Shake Roofing

First off, cedar shake roofing is known for its elegance and beauty. This type of roofing can provide over twice as much insulation as regular asphalt shingles, which will save you a heap of money in energy costs.

Cedar shake roofing is also heavily resistant to severe storm damage, especially with high winds and plenty of rain. Lastly, this type of roofing can last up to ten years longer than asphalt shingles if properly maintained.

The properly maintained part is tricky, just like some other drawbacks.

Cons of Cedar Shake Roofing

High Maintenance

As previously mentioned, cedar shake roofing requires a heavy amount of upkeep. Moss, mold, and mildew can quickly grow, which can cause severe damage to the rest of your roof. Be prepared to inspect or clean this type of roofing once or twice a year if you want it to last more than ten years.

More Expensive Than Other Roofing Materials

Cedar shake roofing is quite expensive. It is a heavy investment, especially when you have it professionally installed. However, if properly installed and maintained, these types of roofs can have a high potential for return on investment.

More Susceptible to Mildew and Mold

One final drawback of cedar shake roofs is their weakness in humid climates. The humidity is the number one suspect when your roof develops moss, mold, or mildew. So in places like the southern United States, cedar shake roofs wouldn’t be a great option.

Cedar Shake Roof Maintenance

Cedar shake roofing can last, in some cases, up to three decades. However, proper maintenance plays into its longevity.

Preventative Treatments

To keep your current cedar shake shingles in tip-top condition, preventative treatments are necessary every one to three years–depending on your location and the weather of that year. Treatments such as fire repellent, water repellent, algaecides, and fungicides need application regularly.

Trim Overhanging Branches

Overhanging branches pose a ballistic threat to your cedar shake shingles when a storm approaches but also create a perfect cocktail to mold. Branches left lying on your roof will accumulate moisture and promote mold growth. So, trimming overhanging branches and removing debris from your roof is a crucial part of yearly maintenance.

Gutter Cleaning

Regularly cleaning your gutters will ensure your roof doesn’t accumulate excess moisture, promoting moss and mold growth.

Pest Control

Pest like squirrels and mice can easily infiltrate your cedar shake roofing and create a whole mess of problems in and outside of your home. Pest prevention and control will help mitigate those pesky critters' path of destruction.

Make Trinity Exteriors Your Choice in Roofing

Cedar shake roofing is perfect for a climate like Minnesota, albeit with all the pros and cons. If you decide to go with cedar shake roofing, contact Trinity Exteriors for superior installation!

We are committed to giving our customers trusted and respected exterior experience, which shows in our work. Check out our gallery to see our commitment yourself!

Contact us today for a free quote or give us a call at 952-920-9520!