There are a lot of options out there when it comes to roofing materials. By far the most common are asphalt shingle roofs. Tile, metal, and slate shingle roofs are also quite popular. One roofing material that has faded into obscurity is wood shakes. If it's time for a new roof and you're thinking about a material that will really make your home stand out, here are some things you should know about wood shake roofs.



How wood shakes are made


Most wood shake roofs are made from cedars. In recent years, shakes made from white cedar have been the most popular as they are less expensive. The wood can be cut on both sides and formed into shingles to be exactly uniform, or they can be cut on one side and formed into shakes to form a more rugged look. Wood shakes are usually the more popular choice.



Advantages


There are many advantages to a wood shake roof. First and foremost, wood shake roofs are naturally beautiful. They give your home a very distinct look. In forested areas, a wood shake roof can really make your home blend in with the surrounding nature. Wood shake roofs are also environmentally friendly. They're 100% recyclable. When a wood shake roof is replaced, it can be turned into mulch. They're also a great natural insulator so they reduce energy costs. They are very durable, resistant to freezes and thaws, and can last decades if properly maintained. By occasionally replacing damaged shingles, you can greatly extend the life of a wood shake roof.


Disadvantages


Wood shake roofs will cost more than most other roofing materials. Not only are they a more expensive material but they're trickier to install. Also, unlike other roofing materials, they are not naturally fire resistant. They need to be treated with fire retardant chemicals in order to be safe. Over time, the fire retardant chemicals will wear off and your roof will need to be treated again. Above all, wood shake roofs are difficult to maintain. They are naturally prone to rot and mold and they tend to attract pests. As a result, you will need to have your roof cleaned much more frequently than you would with other roofing materials.


If you don't mind the extra work and cost, however, a wood shake roof can be a great roofing material if you really want to make your home stand out from the rest.

Home improvement news brought to you by bartonroof.com
Source: care2.com/greenliving/17-facts-about-natural-cedar-roofs.html