When it comes to the roof on your home, you have many options available. While some roofing materials, like asphalt shingles, have become the standard for modern homes, some homeowners are choosing to preserve historic styles with roofs made of other materials, including wood shakes. Aesthetics are one of the reasons for this, as a well-maintained wooden shake roof can add a classic, rustic look to a house that might otherwise look out of place on the block.
Wooden shake roofs are also a great choice for those who want to save on energy costs. They are a natural insulator, keeping houses cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter with less effort than an asphalt shingle roof. They can also be a beautiful accent to a home, especially if the shakes are made of cedar. Cedar includes natural preservatives that help to resist UV exposure, moisture and rot. In addition, the wood is a poor conductor of heat and can therefore reduce your heating bills significantly in the winter.
Unlike some other types of roofing visit this site, however, wooden shakes do require regular maintenance. The shakes themselves can be damaged by hail and wind, and they can rot or develop mold, mildew and other problems. They are also susceptible to fire, which is a major concern in areas with high fire risk. Despite these issues, a properly maintained wooden shake roof can last for decades and increase the resale value of your home.
While the upfront cost of a wood shake roof may be higher than that of an asphalt shingle roof, it is often much lower over time. The average wooden shake roof will last 30 to 50 years, which can save you significant money in the long run when compared with other roof types.
Like any other type of roof, it is important to maintain a wooden shake roof regularly. This can include things like removing leaves and other debris that can trap moisture on the roof, keeping the gutters clear of clogs, and preventing moss and mildew from growing. In addition, it is important to keep the shakes trimmed and free of branches that could fall onto the roof and cause damage.
When it comes to the warranty on a wooden shake roof, there are several different types of warranties that can be obtained. Most importantly, a contractor’s workmanship warranty should be purchased. This is a warranty that protects the homeowner in case the roofing contractor makes an installation error that causes damage to the roof. A quality workmanship warranty will cover the cost of labor and material to correct the installation problem. This is an essential protection to have, particularly because manufacturer warranties do not typically apply to cedar shake shingles.