Cedar Roof FAQ

With proper care, cedar roofs can last 50 years or more, depending on their condition when preservation begins. However, different areas of a cedar roof may age at varying rates. Factors like the length, thickness, and exposure of each shake or shingle play a role. Additionally, the home’s position — proximity to trees, ultraviolet (UV) exposure, and roof pitch — greatly impacts wear and tear. These elements combine to determine the most suitable maintenance options. Each cedar roof is distinct, just like the home it protects, and should be assessed individually.

Cedar shake and shingle roofs were once among the limited roofing options available. Nowadays, they are considered a high-end choice, coming with a higher price tag compared to the more widely used asphalt shingles. As cedar prices continue to climb in the future, these roofs may become a luxury that only a small number of homeowners can afford.

Cedartech Roofing advises waiting 12 to 18 months after installation before applying preservation treatments. This period is crucial because it allows the new cedar to naturally weather and absorb the protective treatment properly. Applying preservation too soon can prevent the treatment from penetrating fully, leading to uneven results and a “blotchy” look within just a few years. By timing maintenance appropriately, your cedar roof is protected while still in excellent condition, and you can reduce costs associated with cleaning. In general, the earlier preservation begins in your roof’s lifespan, the longer it is likely to last.

The initial treatment will protect your surface for four to six years. After that, each follow-up treatment will last about five to six years before a re-coating is necessary. To save on preservation costs, you can skip the power cleaning step by staying “In Cycle” with your regular maintenance schedule.

Properly cleaning your cedar roof is essential to ensure the coating can fully absorb into the shakes or shingles. If mold, mildew, or dead wood fibers are not adequately removed, they can block the cedar from taking in the treatment. The coating’s effectiveness, along with the roof’s appearance and the durability of the finish, depends heavily on the quality of the cleaning process.

Preserving your roof is often far more cost-effective than replacing it entirely. With the price of cedar steadily increasing, preservation offers significant savings. Factors to consider include the roof’s age, current condition, any previous maintenance, and your long-term plans for the home. For instance, if you’ve recently installed a wood roof and plan to sell the home soon, preservation might not be worth it. On the other hand, if your roof is around 10 years old and you’re staying for a while, investing in preservation could be a wise choice. Each situation is unique, with numerous variables influencing the best course of action.

Inexperienced use of a power washer can harm the surface of shake or shingle wood roofs. However, when paired with the right wood cleaner, appropriate pressure settings, and a suitable fan tip, power washing is an effective method for deep cleaning older, untreated roofs. To maintain your roof effectively, it’s ideal to apply a preservative 12 to 18 months after installation and follow a regular re-coating schedule. This process requires only light cleaning before re-coating, minimizing the need for high pressure. Roofs with significant damage, such as deep cracks, splitting, or severe decay, should generally be left untouched.