Top Factors That Affect the Lifespan of a Cedar Roof

There's something beautiful about a cedar roof. Its rich texture, natural tones and rustic elegance add a timeless charm to any home. But along with that beauty comes a big question every homeowner eventually faces — how long does a cedar roof actually last?

Cedar is known for its durability and strength, but its lifespan depends on much more than just the wood itself. Material quality, weather exposure and consistent care all play a role in how long your roof will stand strong and look its best.

In this guide, we'll walk through everything you need to know about cedar roof longevity, including the top factors that influence lifespan and the maintenance tasks that keep your roof in peak condition.

What Is the Typical Lifespan of a Cedar Roof?

With proper care, a cedar roof's life expectancy can range from 20 to 50 years. That wide range is shaped by several variables, like the quality of the cedar, how well it was installed, the climate and how much ongoing maintenance it receives. There are two main types of cedar roofs:

• Cedar shingles: How long do cedar shingles last? Their typical lifespan is 20 to 30 years. They're thinner than shakes and offer a clean, uniform look.

• Cedar shakes: How long do cedar shake roofs last? These roofs are thicker and more rugged. A properly maintained cedar shake roof can last 30-50 years.

Each type brings its own character to a home, and both reward diligent care with longer life. Reaching the upper end of those lifespan estimates requires commitment. Regular maintenance, protective treatments and early repairs are all essential to keeping your cedar roof healthy and strong.

5 Factors That Affect the Life of a Cedar Roof

Every cedar roof tells a story. Some age gracefully, developing a soft, silvery patina over time. Others begin to deteriorate too soon, falling victim to cracks, rot and other damage. The difference often comes down to a few key elements:

1. Quality of Cedar Materials

It all starts with the wood itself. Not all cedar is created equal. 

• Heartwood, or the dense inner part of the tree, is far more durable than sapwood, which is often softer and more vulnerable to decay. 

• The density and thickness of the shakes or shingles are also important. Thicker pieces stand up better to the elements and last longer.

• Good preparation is critical, too. Properly drying and treating cedar before installation makes it less likely to warp, split or develop fungal growth.

Investing in high-quality cedar at the outset lays the foundation for a long-lasting roof.

1. Consider Environmental Elements

Cedar roofs are naturally weather-resistant. They can withstand rain, snow, ice, extreme variations in temperature and freeze-thaw cycles.

Since they are made from natural wood, cedar shakes or shingles are strong and resistant to natural forces. However, two main factors can shorten the lifespan of your roof:

• Moisture from rain or other precipitation

• Infestation of mildew, mold, fungi, lichen, etc.

Both of these threats occur because of improper drainage of moisture from your roof. Yet, both can be easily mitigated through quality installation and with regular maintenance, which protect the natural oils and structures within the wood cells that make these roofs moisture and infestation-repellent and resilient.

2. Quality Installation Matters

Proper installation of a cedar roof is vital for ensuring its longevity. Hiring a contractor that is experienced with this specialized material will mitigate potential installation mistakes that could cause the roof to age and warp in just a few short years.

Common installation mistakes include:

• Not using the proper number of nails per shingle: This varies depending on the weather conditions of your geographic region.   

• Failing to install a suitable underlay: The right underlay will depend on the slope and condition of your roof.

• Not spacing shingles correctly: Shingles should be spaced one-quarter inch apart to allow for them to expand as they absorb moisture.

• Failing to install a starter strip: A starter strip along the edge of the roof takes more time and attention to detail to install, but doing so will create a base for the alignment of subsequent rows of shingles.

• Improperly sealing around roof features: Cutting and sealing shingles around roof pipes and other features can be difficult. Experts in cedar roofing can properly apply cement around these features to ensure a proper seal.

Cedar roof installation is a specialty craft, not a common trade, and maintaining cedar shakes isn't something every roofing company can do. Make sure your contractor has the experience and accreditation to care for your roof properly.

3. Climate and Environmental Factors

Nature plays a big role in how a cedar roof holds up over time. Here's how:

• High-humidity, frequent rain and damp conditions accelerate wood decay.

• Freeze-thaw cycles put extra stress on the roof, causing cracks and splits.

• Sun exposure and UV rays dry out the wood and cause it to become brittle.

• Algae, moss and fungi thrive in shaded, damp areas, trapping moisture and speeding up deterioration.

A roof's local environment determines what kind of care it will need to stay in good shape. 

4. Maintenance and Preventive Care

A well-maintained cedar roof can last decades, adding beauty and value to your home. Regular maintenance is key to preventing damage and maximizing its lifespan.

• Regular inspections: Inspect your cedar roof at least twice yearly – in the spring and fall – to identify potential problems early on. Look for signs of cracks, splits, decay, loose shingles, paying close attention to areas around chimneys, vents and skylights. Catching issues early can prevent more significant repairs.

• Cleaning and moss removal: Over time, moss, algae and lichen can grow on cedar roofs. Gently clean your roof to remove this organic growth, avoiding power washing. Instead, opt for a soft wash method.

• Protective coatings and treatments: Applying protective coatings can extend the life of your cedar roof. Preservatives, UV inhibitors and water repellents help to protect the wood. A product like TWP 200 is a high-quality statement that shields wood from moisture and UV rays. 

• Prompt repairs: Even with regular maintenance, your cedar roof may require occasional repairs. Address issues quickly to prevent further damage.

Performing seasonal maintenance on your cedar roof will also ensure any issues are caught and repaired quickly and before they become major problems:

• Fall: Perform a visual inspection of your roof to check for any irregularities, such as raised nails, wide gaps between shingles and curled, cupped or missing shingles. Fall is also a good time to replace moss inhibitors and check the insulation and ventilation of your roof. It is also important to clear any debris off the roof and clean your gutters before winter weather arrives.

• Winter: Fall maintenance should ensure your cedar roof needs little care in the winter, which can be dangerous. Watch for ice dam build-up, but consider calling a professional roofing contractor if they do need to be removed as doing so yourself can be tricky and unsafe.

• Spring: As in the fall, it is important to clean your gutters and clear off any debris from your roof each spring. Spring is also an excellent time to consider getting your roof professionally inspected and beginning to plan for any necessary maintenance that can be carried out during the drier summer months.

• Summer: Take time in the summer to clean and professionally treat your roof, when needed.

5. Roof Orientation and Tree Coverage

The direction your roof faces and the presence of overhanging trees can significantly impact its lifespan. South-facing roofs, for example, receive more direct sunlight, leading to faster UV degradation and drying of the cedar. This can cause the wood to become brittle and crack over time.

Conversely, north-facing roofs tend to retain more moisture, creating a favorable environment for moss, algae and fungal growth. Overhanging trees, while providing shade, can also contribute to moisture retention by blocking sunlight and trapping humidity.

These factors can contribute to uneven wear and tear across your roof. One side may be significantly more damaged than the other, leading to costly repairs or even premature replacement.

When to Consider Roof Replacement

Even with the best care, a cedar roof will eventually reach the end of its lifespan. While many wonder how long cedar shake roofs will last, the answer depends on multiple factors and, eventually, replacement becomes necessary.

Signs of widespread damage or decay indicate that your roof may be beyond repair. In such cases, a cost-benefit analysis of repair versus replacement is essential.

Contact Cedar Roof Coatings Today

A cedar roof is a beautiful and valuable asset to any home. By understanding the factors that affect its lifespan and implementing a regular maintenance plan, you can maximize its longevity and protect your investment.

Cedar Roof Coatings is your trusted partner for all your cedar roof needs. From inspections and cleaning to repairs and protective treatments, we have the expertise and experience to keep your cedar roof looking its best for years to come. Contact us today to learn more about our services and schedule a consultation.