Wood shingles add a timeless, rustic charm to any roof — but that beauty comes at a cost. If you want to ensure that your wood shingles don’t lose their function or beauty as the years go by, you’ll need to take care of them through regular maintenance. This will save you time and money in the long run. Scroll down to learn some wood shingle maintenance tips that will help you protect your investment and extend the lifespan of your roof.
How to Keep Your Wood Shingles in Tip-Top Shape
Inspect your roof regularly.
By frequently inspecting your roof’s condition, you can catch potential problems before they escalate and require major, costly repairs. Ideally, you will schedule two roof inspections each year: one in spring and one in fall. Your roofing professional will look for cracked, missing, or damaged shingles as well as signs of mold, rot, or algae growth. They will also evaluate the flashing and seal integrity, the gutter system, and more. Roof inspections are especially important if you have wood shingles because wood is more vulnerable to moisture, rot, and environmental damage than some other roofing materials like asphalt and metal. Regular inspections will ensure your wood shingles are well looked after.
Keep your gutters clean.
Clogged gutters lead to water buildup, which can damage wood shingles, causing them to warp and deteriorate. Check that your gutters are draining properly, especially after heavy storms. It’s also important to check on your gutters in autumn, when leaves and debris commonly find their way inside and disrupt the flow of water.
Apply treatments to prevent mold and algae.
Wood shingles are prone to mold and algae growth, especially in damp, shady areas and humid climates. Fortunately, you can prevent this growth by applying a specialized wood cleaner or algaecide designed for shingles. These products will keep your roof looking clean and attractive by preventing sneaky green growths. You can also apply a sealant to protect your roof from the elements. Typically, these must be reapplied every three to five years.
Trim any overhanging branches.
If a branch hangs over your roof, it runs the risk of scraping and damaging your wood shingles, especially during storms or on windy days. Trim such branches to reduce the risk of damage. This will also prevent leaves and debris from falling on your roof and potentially clogging your gutters.
Address any leaks ASAP.
Take a look around your attic every few months. Do you see any leaks or water stains? If so, don’t sit around and wait for them to worsen. If the issue has entered your home, your wood shingles are likely already suffering. If they begin to rot, you’ll face costly repairs. Instead, hire a roofing professional to repair the leak as soon as possible.
Inspect your ventilation system periodically.
Proper ventilation and good airflow are essential for the health of your wood shingle roof. If air cannot flow properly, heat and moisture may accumulate and cause warping, premature aging, and other issues. When you schedule a roof inspection, make sure the roofing professional checks your ventilation system as well.
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Are you concerned about wood shingle maintenance? If you live in southwest Missouri, contact the professionals at Taylor-Made Roofing. With over 20 years of experience in residential and commercial roofing, Taylor-Made Roofing is a company that you can trust with all of your roofing needs. Our family-owned business offers quality services, a reassuring warranty, and free estimates. For more information, please give us a call at 417-326-8778 or contact us online. We look forward to hearing from you!