Cedar wood shingles are popular for roofing and siding because they offer beauty, sturdiness, and resistance to weather and insects. However, cedar wood shingles also require maintenance to remain in good condition and extend their lifespan. You'll need to do several things regularly when protecting your cedar wood shingle roof.
Perform Regular Inspections
The first step to maintaining your cedar wood shingles is to inspect them regularly for any signs of damage, such as cracks, splits, warping, rotting, or mold. You should also check for any loose or missing nails and any debris or dirt that may accumulate on the shingles.
If you notice any problems, you should immediately repair or replace the affected shingles to prevent further deterioration. It's best to hire a professional roofing service to do this because it can be dangerous to do it yourself.
Clean Your Roof Regularly
It's easy to forget that your roof needs to be cleaned regularly. You must clean your cedar wood shingles periodically to remove any dirt, dust, pollen, algae, or moss that may build up on the surface. You can use a soft-bristled brush or a low-pressure washer to gently scrub the shingles with water and mild detergent.
Avoid harsh chemicals or high-pressure washers that may damage the wood or strip off the natural oils. You should also avoid cleaning your cedar wood shingles on hot or sunny days, as this may cause them to dry out too quickly and crack.
Apply a Protective Coating
Treat your cedar wood shingles with a preservative or a stain to protect them. A preservative is a clear or lightly tinted product penetrating the wood and preserving its natural color and texture. A stain is a pigmented product that coats the wood and changes its color and appearance.
Choose the product that suits your preference and style, but make sure it is specially formulated for cedar wood shingles. You should apply the product according to the manufacturer's instructions, depending on the exposure and weather conditions.
Following these steps, you can keep your cedar wood shingles looking beautiful and lasting for decades. Fortunately, you don't have to carry out any of these steps yourself and you can instead turn to a roofing contractor who will inspect your roof, clean it, and apply a protective coating all on the same day. Cedar wood shingles are an investment that adds value and charm to your home, so it is worth taking good care of them.
For more information on cedar shingles, contact a company near you.
