Cedar shingles are a great way to add style, longevity and value to your home and roof. Cedar is a durable, long-lasting wood that can withstand damage while offering unparalleled insulation against heat and cold, keeping your energy and maintenance costs low.
Cedar shingles' timeless appearance and endurance make them an excellent addition to any home. However, to get the most value for your investment, you must take proper care of your cedar shingles.
Why Proper Care of Cedar Shingles Is Essential
Compared to other shingles, cedar stands up well against UV fading, insect infestation, rot and mildew growth. However, you need to perform regular care and upkeep on your roof to maintain this durability. Otherwise, your cedar shingles might be at risk for issues like these.
Mold and mildew: As it rains, water sits on top of your shingles and may promote the growth of algae, fungus, mildew and mold. Not only are these invasive and unattractive, but if left unchecked, they may cause your shingles and columns to weaken, rot or discolor.
UV fading: As the sun beats down on your roof each day, you may start to notice your once-vibrant shingles have grown dull or faded. While cedar withstands UV-related damage better than most alternatives, proper upkeep will help fortify your shingles' integrity and retain their color longer.
Debris and damage: Storms, hail and strong winds can carry rocks, branches and clutter, and drop them on your roof, sometimes scratching or splitting your shingles in the process. Low-hanging trees in your yard may also drop sap, nuts, branches and leaves, which can build up and weaken your roof over time. Prompt removal and repair of debris-related damage are crucial.
While one or two damaged shingles might seem like a minor issue, they create vulnerable spots in your roof, which may lead to leaks, holes or even an entire cave-in. Extensive roof damage is often costly and complex to repair, sometimes requiring a full replacement. The better you care for your cedar shingles, the more resilient they'll be against curling, warping, fading, splitting, brittleness, buildup and leakage. Your roof and home will be safer for it.
Preventing Water Damage on Cedar Shingles
Now that you understand the importance of keeping your roof safe, how do you do it? One of the crucial parts of roof protection is keeping cedar shingles dry with a durable cedar roof coating from Cedar Roof Coatings.
Our professionals will work with you to fix and prevent water damage on cedar shingles with our simple coating process.
Inspect: Our technicians will begin by inspecting the condition of your roof and shingles. They will note which areas need the most attention, including buildup and vulnerable spots, plus the extent of any damage.
Clean: After inspection, the team will clean your roof and remove any mold, mildew, branches, leaves, moss, fungus and debris. We use an eco-friendly hydrogen peroxide-based cleaning agent that cuts through buildup without compromising your cedar shingles. If your shingles have extensive fading or damage, we will remove the first layer to begin repairing and restoring their appearance.
Touch-ups: Next, we will touch up vulnerable spots and reapply caulking to areas that need it, including near the flashing and column and chimney bases.
Repair: At this point in the process, we will have a better understanding of your roof's condition and will provide an estimate to replace any shingles that were too damaged or weak to withstand cleaning.
Protect: After we've cleaned and made repairs, we will give your shingles a few days to acclimate before returning to your home to put on the protective coating. We apply all cedar coatings by hand, allowing for a thorough, long-lasting application. Our cedar roof coating will create a protective layer on your shingles, warding against mold, mildew, moisture and fading. It will also bring out the cedar grains' natural colors. Once finished, we will help you establish a long-term shingle maintenance plan, with specific tips for protecting your roof and prolonging its lifespan.
How to Prepare for Your Roof Coating
Here are a few things you can do before your cedar shingle appointment to keep the process running smoothly.
Choose the right company: Quality roof protection starts with the company you work with. Always read reviews and request references or examples of previous work before scheduling an appointment. You should also ensure the company you use has experience working with cedar shingles. Our Cedar Roof Coatings team has specific training in how to manage your shingles and apply the protective coating as quickly and efficiently as possible.
Write down concerns: Make a list of shingle-related issues and let our team know before scheduling your appointment. Examples include existing damage, roof leaks, missing shingles or general dissatisfaction with your roof's appearance.
Gather all information: Gather all information about your roof and keep it easily accessible the day of your appointment. These specifics include your roof's size, the dates and nature of any previous roof coatings or inspections, a list of previously damaged or repaired areas and any other details that will give the team a better idea of your home's specific needs. If you plan to leave during the treatment and repair process, you should also provide the team with your contact information, in case we have questions while you're away.
Tips for Maintaining Your Cedar Roof
Once you've had your roof cleaned, repaired and protected, here are some tips for maintaining cedar shingles.
Schedule regular inspections: Periodic roof inspections are a great way to stay on top of your home's condition and prevent minor damage from worsening. Schedule regular inspections, including as-needed appointments after severe weather. We suggest making an appointment no later than one year after you've had your cedar shingles installed, and then at regular intervals after that.
Repair damages immediately: If you see or suspect roof damage, don't wait to have it fixed. Damage can persist and weaken more areas of your roof, potentially leading to more complex and costly repairs.
Keep trees trimmed: Loose tree branches and leaves can fall on your roof, damaging your shingles or even your roof's structural frame. Keep your trees trimmed away from your home, including near your gutters and chimney.
Have it professionally cleaned: A clean roof is a strong roof. Schedule professional cleaning appointments throughout the year to keep your cedar shingles free of buildup and looking their best.
Avoid DIY solutions: If you have cedar shingles, it's best to leave repairs and maintenance to trained professionals with experience handling cedar. Steer clear of any DIY repairs or power-washing your roof to prevent accidental damage or premature wear and tear.
Protect Your Roof With Help From Cedar Roof Coatings
From shelter and insulation to curb appeal and resale value, your roof is an integral part of your home. Keep your investment safe with help from the professionals at Cedar Roof Coatings. We can help you preserve your roof with inspections, repairs and our protective coating. Contact us to request your free estimate or schedule a cedar shingle appointment today.