Cedar roofing is known for its exceptional beauty, durability, and energy efficiency. If you’re considering installing cedar shakes or cedar shingles, understanding the benefits and maintenance needs of this roofing material can help you make the right decision and continue to enjoy an appealing and efficient roof for many years to come. Your roof contractor in Fairfax County can provide you with more details about the cost, installation requirements, and maintenance needs of cedar shake for your home.
What Are Cedar Shakes and Shingles?
Cedar shake and cedar shingles are roofing materials made from natural wood. Shingles are sawn on both sides from a single block of wood, while shakes are split off on one or both sides. The major difference between these two options is appearance—shingles offer a more uniform, manufactured look, while shakes typically give a home a more natural, rustic appearance. Although labeled as “cedar,” these shingles can contain one or more types of wood from cedar and other species of trees. While red cedar was one of the most popular species used in cedar shingles in the past, white cedar has also become more popular in recent years, due to its availability, improved eco-friendliness, and lower cost.
What Makes Cedar Roofing Eco-Friendly?
Cedar shakes and shingles are considered eco-friendly for many reasons. Because they are made from wood, cedar shingles and shakes contain only natural materials; furthermore, cedar contains natural oils that repel insects and mold, often eliminating the need for artificial coatings for protection. Cedar shakes and shingles can be used for other purposes, such as fuel or mulch, when they have reached the end of their functional lifetime as roofing materials. Furthermore, cedar roofing is incredibly durable; although typically warrantied for 20-25 years, most cedar roofing can be expected to last for 50 years or more with the right care. In most cases, replacement of individual shakes or shingles as they are damaged will also extend the lifetime of your roof. Finally, cedar shakes and shingles possess better insulating abilities than many other roofing materials, including aluminum roofing. Installing cedar roofing on your home will help keep your interior temperature more even, reducing the need to use your HVAC system for home comfort and lowering your overall energy usage.
How Should I Maintain My Cedar Roof?
Proper maintenance is the key to roof longevity, regardless of the material you choose. Although cedar is naturally resistant to moisture and mold, regular cleaning is still required to prevent algae and moss from affecting your shingles or shakes. Most roofing experts recommend scheduling pressure washing services for your roof every four to five years, or more often if you notice dark stains and streaks. To prevent moisture from becoming trapped against your roof, you should also have debris, such as leaves and branches, removed from your roof at least twice a year, or more often if your home is located near large, overhanging trees. Have your roof inspected once a year by a professional roofer and address damaged shingles as soon as you notice them restore the integrity and beauty of your roof to extend its longevity.
Whether you own a cedar roof or are considering the benefits of cedar roofing in Alexandria, Bethesda, or Columbia, our experienced roofing contractors are here to help. You can take a look through our comprehensive website for more information about our residential and commercial roofing services, including ventilation systems, skylights, and gutter and downspout installation and care.
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