With proper maintenance, a cedar shake roof in Salem can last a long time. Follow these tips and tricks to get the most out of your shake roof.
Cedar shake roofs can last between 15-30 years in the Willamette Valley if they are maintained properly, and they can sure look great with copper flashing and ventilation. There are some that have even lasted 50+ years with frequent cleaning! It’s important you choose a Salem roofing contractor with years of experience in cedar shake roofing and a long list of references, because a poorly installed shake roof can become very costly. The main role of a shake roof is actually to protect the waterproof underlayment. With all of this in mind, let’s take a look at the things that can cause damage to wood shake roofs and how to prevent them from causing damage. Mold, algae, lichen, and fungi infestations can cause big problems for owners of shake roofs. These are all caused by moisture.
Within the past 30 years, lath installation has been proven an ineffective installation method. These days, installing waterproof underlayment underneath the shakes is the preferred installation method, as it helps the roof shed water. While staining can add curb appeal, it won’t boost the waterproof features of the roof. Sealing will prevent the roof’s shakes from drying out effectively, meaning sealing should be avoided on shake roofs.
The main takeaway from this article is that you should clear debris from your shake roof frequently in order to prevent moisture from being locked in and contributing to the degradation and splitting of your roof.
If you’re looking for a high-quality cedar shake roof in Salem, give us a call today for an estimate at (503) 585-2338.
