Contrary to popular belief, wood shake roofing is durable and designed to last. A well-maintained system has a potential life span of more than 40 years—a feat for a natural, renewable material. Without proper care and routine maintenance, however, roof shakes lose their integrity and deteriorate prematurely. Keep yours in great shape for a long time with a few tips below.  

3 Maintenance Tips for Wood Shake Roofing

1. Clean It Regularly

Many homeowners assume they need new roofing, only to find out that it is still good for a couple of years more. Some wood roofs go for years without a thorough cleaning or scrubbing—an oversight that can shorten its useful life. Debris buildup on the surface has a two-fold effect; it slows down the shedding of water, and it retains moisture that allows destructive fungal growth.

Have a contractor regularly remove debris like dried leaves and branches as well as trim overhanging branches on the roof. Another way that professionals clean these surfaces is by pressure washing them to get rid of deep-seated grime and stubborn growths like moss, lichen, and molds. Cleaning solutions are also necessary for scrubbing off stains that discolor the wood roof. 

2. Have It Treated

Surface treatments are essential for prolonging a roof’s life span, and they also vary according to their purpose. For instance, some treatments contain water repellent and UV inhibitors to protect against weathering and severe moisture damage.

Others come with fungicidal or herbicidal chemicals to inhibit moss, mold, and other growths on your roofing. Wood preservatives are also applied to extend useful life; they can only be effective if weathering hasn’t taken its toll on the shakes. When using treatments, remember to have a contractor rinse off accidental splashes on surrounding plants and areas.

3. Work With a Professional

It’s always better and safer to hire a professional roofing contractor to get the job done. They have the tools, solutions, and expertise to clean and treat your roof efficiently. Moreover, they can inspect its condition and recommend work on identified issues, minimizing costly repairs or replacements.  

When you need more advice on maintaining your wood shake roofing, ask the professionals at Maendele Construction. As a full-service roofing contractor in Hastings, NE, they offer roof installations, replacements, and repairs to homes and businesses throughout the city and nearby communities. Call (402) 984-3906 for free estimates or visit their website to know why they’re the area’s preferred choice.