Cedar trees are among the most magnificent sites in forests and landscaping. The wood makes beautiful chests, fences, roofs, siding, and more. For cedar shake roof installation, you must be very careful about the product and contractor you choose. When it comes to sheltering your home, your decision should not be taken lightly.
If you are considering cedar shake roof installation there are some common questions that require the right answer. Wood roofs require special care and maintenance. Homeowners should ask many questions before they decide on this option. Having the answers can help you decide whether this type of roof is right for you and your home or not.
Common questions for this type of project include:
- What cost is involved and is this an affordable choice?
- Will new flashing be required or is this unnecessary?
- Are there any special sealants or preservatives that will need to be used on a regular basis?
- Will the shakes buckle, warp, lift, or need other repairs over time?
- How long will a cedar shake roof actually last?
- What special considerations does this type of roofing material have and is it high maintenance?
1. What Is the Cost Involved for Cedar Shake Roof Installation?
The price for a cedar shake roof installation can vary significantly, depending on many different factors. The size of your roof, the contractor chosen, the brand and quality of the cedar shakes used, and even the pitch of your roof can change the costs involved. The best way to determine cost is to get an estimate from several contractors in your area.
Cedar shake roof installation typically costs more than installing fiberglass or asphalt shingles. The material cost and the labor required are both more expensive.
2. Do Wood Roofs Require New Flashing?
Flashing can be an important part of any roof, and this includes wood roofs. When you pay for cedar shake roof installation it is a good idea to have all new flashing installed, even if the contractor does not recommend this. Some companies will try to avoid this because it is labor intensive and low profit.
Flashings for wood roof systems fall into four categories: perimeter edge metal, penetrations, valleys and vertical surfaces.
Source: National Roofing Contractors Association
3. Do the Cedar Shakes Need to be Sealed or Preserved?
One of the most common questions about cedar shake roof installation is whether or not these roofing materials should be sealed or preserved in some way. Wood needs to breathe, and if you add sealants or preservative products this will prevent the wood from breathing and could cause expensive problems and an earlier replacement time frame.
Stains are available to provide different tones or hues but this is only cosmetic. In some areas bleaching oil, made from bleach crystals and linseed oil is used. This gives the cedar shakes the traditional grayish look seen on most homes with cedar roofs.
4. Will the Shakes Buckle, Lift, or Warp?
If you want cedar shake roof installation you need to understand how wood roofs are properly installed. Shakes should never buckle, warp, or lift when they are installed properly. If they do, this needs to be discussed with the contractor to see how to fix the issue. Choose a contractor with cedar shake experience for the best results.
A good quality cedar shake, adequate ventilation, and experienced and professional roofers will provide a roof that maintains its beauty and protects your home for many years.
5. How Long Will This Type of Roof Last?
Before you decide on cedar shake roof installation then you probably want to know just how long this type of roof will last so you can determine if it is worth the price involved. When installed properly and top quality materials are used you can expect this choice to last between 30-40 years when it is properly maintained.
Proper maintenance is required for cedar roofs to have the best life expectancy. Regular power washing will help prolong the life of the cedar shakes.
6. Are There Any Special Considerations I Need to Know About?
Cedar shake roof installation does have some special considerations. These need to be evaluated for all types of wood roofs. In addition to needing to breathe, if your home is surrounded by many trees and they hang over your roof, you need to regularly clear your roof of debris to lessen the chance of mold and mildew forming.
Cedar shakes make for a beautiful roof and exterior of your home. Now you are armed with the answers to some of the most common questions about cedar shake roof installation.
What other cedar shake roof installation questions do you think are important for homeowners to ask?
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