How Long Does a Cedar Shake Roof Last?

Cedar shake roofs are found in various parts of the country. They’re known for being durable, and many people love their rustic charm. However, while they can last a long time, many factors go into how long a cedar shake roof will last.

So how long does a cedar shake roof last? Typically a cedar shake roof lasts for 40 to 50 years, but it depends on multiple factors.

In this article, we’ll discuss the lifespan of a cedar shake roof and the considerations you should keep in mind when determining its likely lifespan and replacement costs.

Lifespan of Cedar Shake Roofs

On average, a cedar shake roof lasts about 40 to 50 years. This is longer than a traditional 3-tab asphalt shingle roof, which often has a lifespan of 10 to 20 years.

However, architectural asphalt shingle roofs can last from 20 to 30 years, and premium asphalt shingle roofs can last up to 40 years. Compare that to a metal roof, which will last up to 50 years.

When you’re considering the cost of a roof, you’ll also need to think about the maintenance costs you’ll encounter throughout the years, since maintenance will affect how long the roof will last.

Factors Affecting the Lifespan

In a perfect situation with a very mild climate and impeccable maintenance, a cedar shake roof could last up to 50 years. Unfortunately, most of us do not live in an area with no climate concerns and where every other factor is ideal.

With this in mind, let’s go over some of the factors that can affect your roof’s lifespan.

Material and Installation Quality

Cedar shakes can be sourced from several different places, mostly in the western part of the United States and Canada. The two best types of trees to use are the Western Red Cedar and the Alaskan Yellow Cedar, as these are highly resistant to rot and stain well.

Cedar shakes are also graded into three categories. Using the higher quality (and more expensive) blue label shakes can result in a longer lifespan than the mid-grade red label or lower-grade black label shakes. This is something to discuss with your roofing professional.

Most people cannot install a cedar shake roof on their own. You should seek the expertise of an experienced professional in this particular type of roofing.

Careful installation is crucial to ensure the roof is watertight, to keep the rows straight, and to nail each and every shake into place. The better the installation, the longer your roof will last.

Climate

Exposure to severe weather like heavy rain, strong wind, snow, hail, hurricanes, and strong sun will impact your roof’s lifespan.

Even if you live in a fairly mild climate without snow, ice, or hurricanes, you will likely experience rain, and prolonged moisture that can cause potentially damaging moss, mold, or algae to grow on your roof. Conversely, if your roof is exposed to a lot of sunlight, the shakes can dry out and become brittle.

All these factors can reduce the lifespan of a cedar shake roof.

Maintenance

While some types of roofs don’t require much or any maintenance, this is not the case for a cedar shake roof. You’ll need to have it inspected every one to two years. It also must be cleaned on a regular basis, depending on your local climate.

Regular inspections will give you the chance to replace any damaged shakes and apply sealants and coatings as needed.

If you neglect the maintenance on your cedar shake roof, it’s likely that its lifespan will be shortened.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the disadvantages of a cedar shake roof?

The main disadvantage of installing a cedar shake roof is that it’s prone to drying and splitting in extreme heat, or when it’s been exposed to excessive sunlight. It can also develop mold and rot due to too much moisture.

Cedar shake roofs also need regular inspections and maintenance, and this can be overwhelming if it’s out of your budget or if you simply lack the time and experience to do it on your own.

How do I know if my cedar shake roof is bad?

As you get toward the end of your roof’s lifespan, you may see curling or warping. This is an indication that the roof is prone to failure. Of course, if you see missing shingles or if you have water leaking into your home, you should call a professional immediately to address the problem.

Are cedar shake roofs hard to maintain?

While maintaining a cedar shake roof is not difficult, it does take some effort. You should have your roof inspected at least every other year, and a complete cleaning should be done every two to four years, depending on local weather elements and the age of the roof.

How often do cedar shake roofs need to be replaced?

Cedar shake roofs typically need to be replaced every 40 to 50 years, depending on the climate, the quality of the wood, and maintenance practices. In environments with harsh weather conditions, such as excessive moisture or extreme temperature fluctuations, cedar shakes may require more frequent replacement.

Regular maintenance, such as cleaning, treating moss and algae, and repairing damaged shakes, can extend the lifespan of a cedar shake roof.

Can you restore a cedar shake roof?

Yes, a cedar shake roof can be restored, which can extend its life and improve its appearance. Restoration typically involves cleaning the shakes to remove dirt, moss, and algae; replacing damaged or rotted shakes; and applying treatments to protect against moisture and UV damage.

Use products specifically designed for cedar to preserve the wood’s natural properties. Regular inspections and timely repairs are crucial in maintaining a cedar shake roof’s condition and functionality.

Final Thoughts

The lifespan of any roof will depend on factors like the climate, the quality of the installation, and whether regular maintenance is done. While a cedar shake roof requires more maintenance than some other types of roofing, you might find it’s worth it if you really like the appearance of the cedar shakes or if you want to go with a shingle roof that will last longer than asphalt.

At Erie Home, we offer stone-coated steel metal roofs that mimic different types of shingles in appearance, including wood shakes. However, our metal roofs require less maintenance and can last up to 50 years. Call us today at 1-800-862-6400 to learn more about your options and get a free estimate.

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