Keeping the Rain Where It Belongs: An Homage to Roofs

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Cedar Wood Shingles Give Your Home Classic Charm

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A wood shingle roof has classic charm and is suitable for nearly all types of housing. If you want a luxury roof that has withstood the test of time, then wood shingles might be the right choice for you. Here are some things you'll probably want to know about these shingles.

Most Wood Roofs Are Made Of Cedar

Historically, wood roofs were made from a number of tree species. Now, cedar is the main wood used. If you want to use a different type of wood, you may need to custom order it, which would add to the expense. Chances are, cedar shingles will be put on your roof as those may be the only type of wood available.

However, cedar is an excellent choice for roofing since it has oils that protect it from rain and insects. It's one of the more durable types of wood and is used for a number of construction purposes. 

Wood Shingles Have Different Shapes

If you're planning on installing a wood roof, take time to examine all of your choices in shingle shapes. The shape of the shingles makes a difference in how your roof will look. First, you may want to understand the differences between shakes and shingles. Shingles are flat and smooth with a tapered edge. Shakes are rough cut and thicker. They have a different look, so you can choose what you like best.

Shingles have different styles on the lower edge. The edge might look like a diamond, fish scale, square, round, or come to a point like an arrow. Plus, the shingles can be installed in different patterns. Ask your roofer about your options and get advice for choosing wood shingles that match the architecture of your house.

Cedar Roofs Gradually Change Color

If you want a cedar roof because you love the red look of new cedar, you should know the shingles will change in color as they age. Just like a cedar fence slowly turns gray due to oxidation, these wood shingles also weather and turn gray.

Unlike a fence that you can seal to keep the red color, it's not usually recommended to seal cedar roofs since the shingles need to breathe to prevent moisture buildup. If you're concerned about the color of the shingles changing, talk to your roofing contractor for advice.

Wood Shingles Require Different Skills To Install

Some roofers may not install wood shingles. You may need to look around to find a roofer with the skills and experience to do the job. The installation method depends on the local climate. Dry areas follow different procedures than regions with high humidity. Wood roofs need a deck, underlayment, shingles, and flashing.

You might want to consider copper flashing since it has a pleasing look next to wood shingles. Copper can also help control algae growth on the wood.


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