Cedar roofing materials have been used throughout the world for hundreds of years! This specialty roofing material is designed to give homes a unique and rustic appearance that few other materials can.
Benefits of a cedar shake roof include:
- Beautiful aesthetic
- Highly durable
- Eco-friendly
- Energy cost savings
- Long-lasting (30-50 years)
Cedar shakes and shingles also offer other benefits, including energy savings and durability. Why should you choose cedar shake for your next roof? Read on to learn about the many advantages of this type of roof.
1 — Stability and Longevity
One of the best things about cedar is that it can retain its shape, even in humid conditions. This means it will lay flat, hold its shape and not shrink or expand even when water or humidity is present. That cannot be said for other types of roofing materials, like asphalt shingles, that can bend and warp as the seasons change.
The stability of cedar shake roofs also means this roofing material is more durable than other types of roofing. The wood’s natural preservatives make it resistant to water, ultraviolet rays from the sun, and even insects. This characteristic of cedar roofs makes them great for tough climates or those that experience severe weather often.
Cedar shake roofs can last up to 30 years or more with proper maintenance (which is pretty low) and getting repairs when needed. Because cedar shakes are super durable against high winds, hail, and heavy rains, they can thrive in cooler climates, and with quality materials and maintenance, some homeowners can get up to 50 years out of them.
2 — Insulation Leads To Energy Savings
A well-insulated attic and roof can be the difference between high or low energy bills. Asphalt roofs, for example, require proper insulation both under the shingles and in the attic. Poor insulation can lead to ice dams, high heating bills, and even mold or mildew growth in the attic.
Luckily, cedar is considered a natural insulator by disallowing cold winds to pass through them and also prevent hot UV rays from penetrating your home in the hot summer months. When used as a roofing material, it creates a barrier that keeps warm air in during the winter and cold air in during summer. This can mean less energy is needed to heat and cool your home translating to lower energy costs for your home!
Lower energy costs, in the long run, mean you can invest more into your new cedar shake roof upfront and get an incredible ROI over the years—especially since your roof will last 30-50 years.
3 — Environmentally Friendly
Homeowners choosing to go with asphalt roofing shingles are doing more harm than good for the environment. In fact, 11 million tons of asphalt shingles end up in U.S. landfills every year where they will remain for up to 300 years before they fully degrade. With a lifespan of 10-15 years, asphalt shingles are one of the least environmentally friendly roofing materials.
Cedar roofing shingles are quite the opposite. Not only do cedar roof shingles take less time to manufacture, but they also last longer than traditional shingles and are biodegradable if they do end up in a landfill.
Plus, cedar trees are a sustainable resource that grows at a relatively fast pace at 12 to 24 inches per year. Plus, old cedar shingles can be recycled and used as wood chips or even roofing for smaller projects like gazebos or garden beds after being torn off.
4 — Aesthetic Design
The timeless beauty of a cedar roof is undeniable! The reason most homeowners choose this type of roofing material is due to the added curb appeal cedar will add. As cedar shakes age, they begin to grey and add a unique look to your home.
Cedar shakes can also be re-stained or repainted down the road to uphold their integrity or to switch up the look of your home while also giving your home a fresh look. Just keep in mind that painting your cedar shakes can ruin their durability, and re-staining them is almost always recommended. After you stain them, you can paint a protective topcoat on them to preserve their strength and ensure they keep working at optimal capacity.
5 — Resistance To The Elements
Most homeowners assume that because it is made of cedar, this type of roofing material will be prone to rot, fungus, insects, and even fire. That’s not the case! Cedar shake and cedar shingles are treated to prevent this from happening which makes them one of the safest roofing materials for your home.
While a cedar roof may cost more upfront when compared to traditional roof materials, the benefits far outweigh the initial price tag, especially since it will likely be the last roof you ever have to install on your home!
6 — They Smell Good!
Who doesn’t love the fresh scent of natural wood? Cedar shakes natural wood appeal not only looks nice, and smells nice. It’s like taking a brisk walk through the forest. This may appeal to many who love the great outdoors and are pairing their siding with the environment around them. Of course, the smell may not last forever but it can be lovely while it exists.
7 — Lightweight Material
Cedar shakes are actually quite light. Some premium roofing materials like slate, metal or even certain asphalt shingles can put a lot of added weight and pressure on your home. Heavy roofing materials also make for more difficult and tedious installation. Luckily, cedar shakes are easy to haul up and down the roof, and their lightweight makes them easier to install, which can lower labor costs.
8 — Increase the Value of Your Home
A new roof in any material can boost your curb appeal and increase the value of your home. But cedar shake roofs, in particular, are a somewhat hot commodity and can greatly affect the value of your home.
While the upfront cost of cedar shake installation can be quite high, if you are looking to sell your home soon or even in 10-20 years, having a cedar shake roof can be a major selling point. Because this roof may last for decades after someone buys it, they will be willing to invest in something they won’t have to worry about for years to come.
So, do you think a cedar roof is right for your home? Contact us today to learn more or to get a project quote and get started!