Natural cedar is one of the most beautiful types of shingles or shakes installed by roof companies today. It has many unique qualities when put on by roof services that are experienced with wood systems, making it a favorite of many homeowners. Before you invest in this material, you should understand both the advantages and disadvantages of cedar.
To get the most from this attractive material and avoid the need for unnecessary roof repair means knowing how cedar should be installed and maintained.
What Makes Cedar Roofing Attractive and Unique?
Cedar has a natural, rustic look so that when installed by skilled roof companies, it can compliment many types of homes. These shingles are cut from multiple species like red and white cedar and range from a rich reddish-brown to lighter shades of brown and tan.
They offer an attractive, slightly variegated appearance once installed. They can be purchased as standard shingles cut to various shapes and sizes depending upon your preference or as hand-split, thicker shakes that give a more rustic look.
Additionally, the cedar shingles and shakes that are installed by qualified roof services are unique from other materials in the way they gradually mature to a smooth, variegated gray patina that looks just as beautiful, if not more stately. Combined with its numerous other advantages such as a long service life and a reduced need for roof repairs, cedar is a great choice to consider for your next roof installation.
Cedar Has Many Appealing Qualities
Along with its natural beauty, when cedar shingles and shakes are installed by experienced roof companies, they offer you the following important advantages:
- High Durability – Cedar is naturally weather-resistant, mold-resistant, insect-resistant, and is not affected by extreme temperature changes even freezing. When correctly maintained, this material can withstand different environmental extremes and is not likely to rot.
- Long Lifespan – Although commercial cedar products installed by roof services typically carry warranties up to 25 years, many cedar installations last twice that long. If they are well maintained and any minor roof repairs are made when necessary, cedar systems can outlast asphalt and wood shingle installations.
- Eco-Friendly – Cedar for roofing and building materials is sustainably grown and non-polluting, making it a preferred choice over many synthetic materials. It also provides natural thermal protection and can be safely recycled as mulch once it has been removed.
The Few Disadvantages
The main disadvantage you may face when choosing cedar for your home is a need for regular maintenance to keep it clean. Leaves must be kept off a cedar roof and should be washed with a detergent every few years to remove any mold or mildew that may be growing.To improve fire-resistance, it should be periodically treated with preparations made specifically for cedar.
Additionally, it is critical that cedar shakes or shingles be installed by qualified roof companies that know to apply breathable substrates necessary to allow cedar to breathe as well as to ensure the home has adequate attic ventilation.
If you are looking for an attractive, environmentally-friendly and durable roofing material for your home, consider natural cedar shingles or shakes. When installed by experienced roof services, cedar is one of the most beautiful materials available and will give you years of reliable service with little need for roof repair!
