Besides giving your home a rustic aesthetic, cedar shake roofing is naturally resistant to pests and extreme weather conditions. Not to mention, this roofing material can last approximately 20 to 40 years, but that’s only possible with appropriate ongoing maintenance. Let’s take a look at some best practices for keeping up your cedar shake roof.
Prevent Moisture-Related Damage
While cedar shake roofing is innately resistant to moisture, persistently moist conditions can promote biological growth. To ensure your roof remains as dry as possible, trim any overhanging branches that can increase moisture retention and slow the drying process.
You can further prevent moisture damage by cleaning off twigs, leaves, and other debris that trap water beneath them. Always use a broom or soft-bristled brush to remove debris, so you don’t damage the shakes. Otherwise, you could strip away their surface layer, which will decrease their weather resistance and lessen their lifespan. If you need to clear away any loose debris with a hose, use a standard garden variety set to a gentle setting rather than a pressure washer.
Keep Your Gutters and Downspouts Clean and Functioning
Your gutters and downspouts serve the vital purpose of carrying away water so it doesn’t lie on your roof. Whenever they’re clogged or damaged, they won’t function as they should, allowing water to remain on your shakes. As a general recommendation, clean your gutters at least twice a year: once in the fall and another time in the spring.
Inspect both your gutters and downspouts regularly to ensure water is flowing through them as it should. Anytime you notice a problem, address it promptly.
Apply Protective Treatments as Needed
By applying solutions to discourage spores from forming, prevent sun damage, and repel water, you protect your roof from common hazards that can shorten its lifespan. You can find treatments that protect against multiple threats, but you’ll still need more than one to minimize all risks to your cedar shakes.
The application frequency depends on the humidity level in your area and the product, so read the packaging carefully. You can also include it as part of your routine maintenance from a roofer. Whether you’re doing it yourself or hiring someone, choose to apply the protection during mild, dry weather for optimal results.
Schedule Routine Maintenance and Inspections
In addition to any maintenance or inspections you’re performing, schedule a yearly visit from a roofing company. A roofer will inspect all aspects of your roof and provide any necessary maintenance to help make your investment last.
A cedar shake roof, fortunately, doesn’t need extensive care, and when you follow these best practices, you’ll preserve its integrity and appeal for as long as possible. Contact Bliss Roofing today for everything you need to keep your cedar shake roof in Portland, OR looking great.