Every kind of roof has its pros and cons. Cedar shake roofs are no different. Homeowners consider them an aesthetically appealing, vintage roofing option that can immediately transform any home. But because cedar shakes and shingles are made of real wood, you will have to replace your roof every once in a while.
In this blog post, we’ll discuss cedar shake roof replacement costs. Do you think it’s time to replace your cedar shake roof? Call the roofing experts at Polaris Roofing Systems in Flagstaff, AZ, today for professional roofing replacement services. Dial (928) 699-4840 for more information.
When You Should Replace Your Cedar Shake Roof
As time goes by, your cedar shake roof will succumb to the elements. Though durable and rugged, even with proper maintenance, your shake shingles will eventually show large cracks and splits that indicate they need replacing.
Other signs that your worn roof may need replacement include:
- Missing shingles
- Leaks
- Warped shingles
The Typical Lifespan of a Cedar Shake Roof
A well-maintained shake roof can last up to 30 years or more. This will depend on the grade of cedar the roofer used and the shingle’s thickness. Cedar comes in many grades, and the best quality will be the most expensive and last the longest.
The quality of roofing installation also matters. Hire only skilled experts, and you won’t have to worry about having to replace your cedar shake roof prematurely.
Cedar Shake Roof Replacement Cost
When considering the cost to replace your cedar wood shakes roof, you’ll want to account for the eventual cost to remove and replace the roof. Roofing contractors will typically charge more to tear down and install a new roof than simply install a new roof due to the increased labor.
You can expect to pay between $600 and $700 per hundred square feet to install a new cedar shake roof. That comes to about $17,000 to $27,000 for a new roof. This alone nears double the cost of other roofing shingles, such as asphalt roofing. Most roofers will also charge an additional fee to tear down your old roof and replace any damaged wood they discover.
Beyond the initial cost to replace the roof, consider the cost to maintain it as well. Maintenance costs range between $500 to $1000 every couple of years.
Maintenance Requirements for a Cedar Shake Roof
To preserve the chiseled and rugged look of your cedar shake roof, you’ll need to adhere to a regular maintenance program every two to four years.
Remove Sticks and Leaves
Every so often, take a walk around your home and remove any leaves, sticks, or limbs building up on your roof. Even though cedar can resist many types of fungus, you want to remove any sticks and leaves as they provide a safe place for fungus growth.
Clear Overhanging Branches
Moisture stands as one of your roof’s biggest enemies, and the biggest culprit includes overhanging tree limbs. They can prevent proper airflow and possibly cause a fire.
Clean Your Gutters
If you have clogged gutters, they won’t be effective at directing water away from your roof. When that happens, moisture can build up in the shingles across the length of the gutter system, facilitating the growth of rot and fungus. Pay special attention to your gutters in the autumn, when dead leaves and limbs may clog your system.
Power Washing
An occasional power wash can help keep your cedar shingles in tip-top shape by getting rid of any mold and dirt buildup that has started to grow. Power washing will also maintain the soundness of your roof and remove loose pieces of shingle.
Choose Polaris Roofing Systems for Your New Cedar Shake Roof
If you need to replace your cedar shake roof, you can count on our team at Polaris Roofing Systems. We’re proud to serve the Flagstaff, AZ community and the surrounding areas. Our team is the premier choice for professional roofing services, including roof replacements, repairs, and gutter installations.
Contact us today at (928) 440-9168 for a free cost estimate of your cedar shake roof replacement.
