What is a Cedar Shake Roof

What Is a Cedar Shake Roof? A Complete Guide to Installation, Maintenance, and Replacement

A cedar shake roof is a timeless, durable, and visually appealing roofing option that has been used for centuries. Known for its natural beauty and rustic charm, cedar shake roofing adds character to any home. However, it also requires diligent maintenance and, when the time comes for replacement, presents unique challenges such as dirt, debris, and the need for a complete resheeting of the decking. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about cedar shake roofs, including their benefits, maintenance requirements, and the challenges of removal and replacement.

1. What Is a Cedar Shake Roof?

A cedar shake roof is made from natural cedar wood that has been split into individual shingles, or “shakes.” These shakes are thicker and more textured than traditional cedar shingles, giving the roof a more rugged and dimensional appearance. Cedar shakes are typically crafted from western red cedar, a species known for its durability, resistance to insects, and natural insulation properties.

Cedar shake roofs have been a popular choice for homeowners due to their:

• Aesthetic Appeal: The natural wood grain and variations in color create a visually stunning roof.
• Durability: With proper maintenance, a cedar shake roof can last 30 to 50 years.
• Energy Efficiency: Cedar wood has natural insulating properties that help regulate indoor temperatures.
• Eco-Friendliness: Cedar is a renewable resource and can be recycled after its lifespan.

2. Maintenance of a Cedar Shake Roof

While cedar shake roofs are beautiful and long-lasting, they require regular maintenance to prevent issues such as moss growth, water damage, and insect infestations.

2.1. Regular Cleaning and Moss Prevention

One of the biggest maintenance tasks for a cedar shake roof is keeping it free from debris, moss, and algae. Over time, moisture buildup can lead to fungal growth, which can degrade the wood and shorten the roof’s lifespan. To maintain a clean roof:

• Remove Debris: Regularly clear off leaves, twigs, and other organic material that can trap moisture.
• Clean with a Soft Brush: Avoid pressure washing, which can damage the shakes.
• Apply Moss and Algae Treatments: A gentle, eco-friendly solution can help prevent growth.

2.2. Staining and Sealing

To protect against weathering and UV damage, cedar shakes should be treated with a high-quality wood preservative or stain every 3-5 years. This helps:

• Repel moisture and reduce water absorption.
• Prevent premature cracking and splitting.
• Maintain the natural color and aesthetic appeal of the wood.

2.3. Inspections and Repairs

Regular roof inspections are crucial to catching potential issues before they become major problems. Homeowners should:

• Inspect for cracked or curling shakes.
• Check for soft or rotting areas.
• Look for signs of pest infestations such as termites or carpenter ants.
• Ensure proper ventilation to prevent moisture buildup underneath the shakes.

3. Issues with Tearing Off a Cedar Shake Roof

When a cedar shake roof reaches the end of its lifespan, the tear-off process can be labor-intensive and messy. Unlike asphalt shingles, which can be removed relatively easily, cedar shakes require special handling due to their unique structure and how they’re nailed to the roof decking.

3.1. Heavy Layers of Debris

Over decades, cedar shakes accumulate dirt, moss, and debris between the layers. When the shakes are removed, this material often falls onto the surrounding property, making cleanup a major undertaking.

3.2. Nails and Splintered Wood

Cedar shakes are secured with long nails, which can be difficult to remove without damaging the underlying structure. As the shakes are pulled off, they often splinter and break, creating additional debris that must be carefully disposed of.

3.3. Rot and Water Damage Below the Shakes

Because cedar shake roofs are installed with gaps for ventilation, water can sometimes seep through and cause rot on the underlying roof deck. This means that when tearing off an old cedar shake roof, there’s often hidden damage that must be addressed before installing new roofing materials.

4. The Need for a Complete Resheet of Decking

One of the most important considerations when replacing a cedar shake roof is that it almost always requires a complete resheeting of the roof decking. Here’s why:

4.1. Spaced Sheathing vs. Solid Decking

Traditional cedar shake roofs are installed over spaced sheathing (also called skip sheathing), which consists of wooden slats with gaps in between. This design allows the cedar shakes to breathe and dry out properly. However, modern asphalt shingles and other roofing materials require a solid, continuous decking surface for proper installation.

4.2. Structural Weakness

Over time, the original sheathing may have weakened due to moisture exposure. Replacing the roof without upgrading the decking can lead to structural issues and reduce the new roof’s lifespan.

4.3. Code Compliance

Many modern building codes require a solid deck for safety and durability reasons. If you’re transitioning from cedar shake to asphalt shingles, metal, or another roofing material, you’ll need to install new plywood or OSB decking over the existing structure.

4.4. Increased Costs and Labor

Because a complete resheet is necessary, homeowners should be prepared for the additional cost of materials and labor. On average, resheeting can add $2.00 – $4.00 per square foot to the overall roof replacement cost.

5. Is a Cedar Shake Roof Right for You?

While cedar shake roofs offer unparalleled beauty and natural durability, they require a commitment to maintenance and eventual replacement challenges. Homeowners considering cedar shake should weigh the pros and cons carefully:

Pros:

• Timeless aesthetic and natural beauty.
• High durability with proper care.
• Excellent insulation and energy efficiency.
• Increases property value and curb appeal.

Cons:

• Requires frequent maintenance to prevent moss, mold, and rot.
• Expensive to install compared to asphalt shingles.
• Challenging and messy to remove when replacing.
• Requires a complete resheeting of decking for future replacement.

6. Trust the Experts for Your Cedar Shake Roof Needs

If you have a cedar shake roof and need maintenance, repair, or replacement, trust S&K Construction and Remodeling LLC to handle the job professionally. As a local roofing expert in Northeast Ohio, we specialize in cedar shake roof replacements and can guide you through the process from start to finish.

Why Choose Us?

• Experienced Roofing Professionals: Our team has years of experience handling cedar shake roofs.
• Quality Workmanship: We ensure precision in every installation and replacement.
• Fair Pricing: We offer competitive rates and financing options for your roofing project.
• Customer Satisfaction: Our top priority is providing durable and beautiful roofing solutions.

Get a Free Estimate Today!

If you’re considering a cedar shake roof installation or replacement, contact S&K Construction and Remodeling LLC today for a free consultation and estimate. Let us help you achieve a beautiful, long-lasting roof that enhances your home’s curb appeal and value.