Making The Switch To Cedar Roofs

So you’ve been thinking about making the switch to cedar roofing but you’re not quite convinced yet? Well, let us here at Above & Beyond Exterior Remodelers, the #1 roofing company in New Jersey, break it all the way down for you.

What Exactly is Cedar Roofing?

As noted in the name, cedar roofing is made from cedarwood. Cedarwood is one of the most common materials used in both exterior and interior home designs. It is a favorite in many homes due to its earthy aroma, weather, and rot resistance, and all-around natural aesthetic.

Types of Cedar Roofing

There are two types of cedar roofing that you can install in your home. These are red or white cedarwood. Red cedarwood, while being the costlier option, is the one preferred by many due to its durability and natural preservatives that make it resistant to insect infestation and decay. The popularity of white cedarwood has been increasing due to its aesthetic appeal as well as it being the cheaper option of the two.

Cedar roofing also comes in two different design types. These are cedar shakes or shingles. The shingles are more polished and refined. They have been cut and sanded to present a more smooth and tidier look. The shakes are a bit more rugged and textured. They are also thicker and wider than the shingles. Choosing between the different types of cedar truly boils down to the look and feel that you’re trying to create for your home.

Maintaining Your Cedar Roof

Like any other roof, cedar roofing requires maintenance. When properly installed and maintained your cedar roof can last up to 40-50 years. Here’s how you can get the most out of your cedar roof:

• Clearing away debris and preventing debris build-up: Debris build-up on your roof and in your gutter prevents water run-off. This moisture retention can cause the development of moss and fungus which in turn can lead to the weakening and breaking of the cedar shingles or shakes.
• Applying various cedar roof treatments: These can include fungicides, insecticides, water repellents, algaecides, and fire repellents.
• Surface roof cleaning: Cleaning your roof regularly will remove any buildup of moss, vegetation, and dirt. It will also allow you to isolate any weak shingles or shakes.

Eco-Friendly Option

Most cedar roofing shingles and shakes are sourced from sustainable cedarwood harvesters making it a more environmentally friendly roof. They are also incredibly thermal resistant which means that you’ll save a lot more energy when it comes to heating or cooling your home. Old or weakened shingles and shakes can also be recycled into mulch for your garden.

Sound convinced? Give us a call or email us for a free roof inspection.