The Roof Inspection Dilemma
As a first-time home inspector, I’ll admit I was a little nervous when I got the call to check out a 10-year-old cedar shake roof. I mean, I’ve read all the InterNACHI articles on roof inspections, but I’ve never actually dealt with a wood shake roof before. Was I going to accidentally break a bunch of shakes just by walking on it? And what the heck should I even be looking for?
Luckily, the Mastering Roof Inspections series from InterNACHI had my back. After brushing up on the dos and don’ts of wood shake and shingle roof inspections, I felt much more prepared to tackle this new challenge.
Understanding Wood Roof Basics
Before I dive into the specifics of roof maintenance, let me first give you a quick rundown on wood roofs. These babies come in two main varieties – cedar shakes and cedar shingles. The shakes are generally a little more rugged, with a split, handcrafted look, while the shingles have a more uniform, machine-cut appearance.
Regardless of the style, wood roofs require a bit more TLC compared to their asphalt counterparts. They’re susceptible to things like weathering, decay, and even critter damage from squirrels and raccoons. And since they’re a bit more fragile, you’ve gotta be extra careful when inspecting or maintaining them.
The good news is that with the right know-how, you can keep your wood roof in tip-top shape for decades. Let’s take a closer look at the essential dos and don’ts of roof maintenance.
Dos of Roof Maintenance
1. Regular Cleaning and Debris Removal
One of the most important maintenance tasks for a wood roof is keeping it clean and free of debris. Things like leaves, twigs, and other organic matter can hold moisture against the shakes or shingles, leading to premature decay and deterioration.
Make it a point to regularly (like, a few times a year) get up there and clear out any accumulated gunk. And don’t forget to clean out those gutters too – clogged gutters can cause all sorts of problems, from water backing up under the roofing to unsightly staining.
2. Timely Shake/Shingle Replacement
Over time, even the hardiest wood shakes and shingles will start to wear down. Look for signs of splitting, cracking, or significant erosion, and replace any damaged or missing pieces promptly. Waiting too long to make these repairs can lead to bigger issues down the line, like leaks or even structural damage.
When it comes to replacements, be sure to use pressure-treated shakes or shingles, especially if you live in an area prone to harsh weather or pests. And if you’re dealing with a significant portion of the roof in need of repair, you may want to consider a full re-roofing instead.
3. Proper Flashing and Sealants
Flashing and sealants are crucial for preventing water intrusion on any roof, but they’re especially important for wood roofs. Make sure all the flashing around chimneys, vents, and roof edges is in good condition, and reseal any cracks or gaps with a high-quality sealant.
Pay extra attention to areas like valleys and roof-to-wall transitions, where leaks are most likely to occur. And don’t forget about those built-in gutters – make sure they’re clear and properly sealed to avoid any water issues.
4. Trim Overhanging Branches
Overhanging tree branches can wreak havoc on a wood roof in a few ways. First, they can scrape and scratch the shakes/shingles, leading to premature wear and tear. Second, they can drop leaves and debris that can clog up the roof and gutters.
And perhaps most importantly, those branches give squirrels and raccoons easy access to the roof, where they may decide to make a meal out of your shingles. So be diligent about trimming back any offending branches, keeping them at least 3-5 feet away from the roof edge.
Don’ts of Roof Maintenance
1. Don’t Walk the Roof
This may seem counterintuitive, but walking on a wood roof is generally a big no-no, especially if you’re not a seasoned professional. Those shakes and shingles can be surprisingly fragile, and even someone with the lightest step can end up accidentally cracking or breaking them.
If you do need to access the roof for maintenance or inspection, try to limit your travel to the roof edges and valleys, where the shingles are more protected. And consider using a ladder or lift to avoid stepping directly on the roofing material.
2. Don’t Use Harsh Cleaners
When it comes to cleaning a wood roof, you’ll want to steer clear of harsh chemicals or abrasive scrubbing. These can damage the delicate surface of the shakes and shingles, accelerating weathering and decay.
Instead, opt for gentle, pH-neutral cleaners specifically formulated for wood roofs. You can also try a simple mix of water and mild dish soap. And be sure to rinse thoroughly to remove any residue.
3. Don’t Ignore Ice Dams
In colder climates, ice dams can be a real bane for wood roofs. These frozen ridges of ice along the roof’s edge can prevent proper drainage, leading to water seeping under the shingles and causing all sorts of problems.
If you live in an area prone to ice dams, be proactive about addressing them. You can use nylon stockings filled with ice-melting chemicals to create channels for the water to drain, or even consider installing snow guards to prevent the ice buildup in the first place.
4. Don’t DIY Major Repairs
While minor shake/shingle replacements and sealant touch-ups are usually fair game for the handy homeowner, any major roof repairs or re-roofing should be left to the professionals. Wood roofs, especially slate or cedar, require specialized knowledge and tools to work with properly.
Trying to DIY these bigger projects can end up causing more harm than good, potentially voiding warranties or even leading to more extensive (and expensive) damage down the line. It’s always better to bring in a qualified roofing contractor who knows what they’re doing when it comes to wood roofs.
Wrapping Up
Maintaining a wood roof may take a bit more effort than the average asphalt shingle roof, but the payoff is worth it. With the right combination of proactive maintenance, strategic repairs, and a healthy respect for the fragility of those shakes and shingles, you can keep your wood roof looking great and functioning at its best for years to come.
And if you ever find yourself staring up at one of these beauties, wondering what the heck you’re supposed to do, just remember the key dos and don’ts we covered today. A little know-how can go a long way in preserving the integrity of your roof and protecting your home.
Happy roof maintenance, my friends! Let me know if you have any other wood roof questions – I’m always happy to chat.