THE DECISION TO RE-ROOF
Regardless of the material on your roof, it should be inspected periodically for signs of wear. It is a good idea to visually check your roof from the outside as well as inside the crawl space or attic. In some cases, minor problems can be repaired.
Begin your inspection by looking for leaks or water stains on the inside of the roof or insulation. On the outside of the dwelling, split, missing or broken roofing materials may indicate that new roof should be considered.
However, as long as your roof continues to repel water, it probably doesn't require immediate replacement.
On many home, a new cedar shake or shingle roof may be applied directly over an existing roof. It will also increase the roof's insulting value.
THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN SHAKES AND SHINGLES
Generally speaking, shingles are sawn and shakes are split. This gives shingles a relatively smooth surface while shakes have a natural grain, textured look. The exception are taper-sawn shakes which combine the thick-butt dimensions of a shake with the tailored appearance of a shingle.
Choosing the right cedar roof depends primarily on your own individual taste and what will work best on your home. Your roofing contractor or architect can assist in your decision on which is best in your case.
Sawn Split Certi-Sawn
Cedar shakes and shingle differ in appearance and texture. shingles are sawn, producing a smooth surface. Shakes are split, with a textured grain effect. Certi-Sawn combine the thick dimensions of shakes with the tailored appeal of shingles.
With 1st Class Builders, cedar shakes and shingles, you're getting the very best in grade and quality control. These shakes and shingles are the highest rated, produced by more than 250 of the top mills in the U.S. and Canada.
The Cedar Shake & Shingle Bureau, the recognized authority since 1915, maintains the finest industry standards and quality control for these member mills. It's the only shake and shingle grading agency acknowledged by name in all national U.S. model building codes.
So, be sure to ask your roofing contractor for shingles and shakes with the Certigrade, or Certi-Sawn label on each bundle. They are your assurance that the materials applied to your roof are superior in quality, durability and consistent appearance.
HARSH CLIMATES
Cedar has proven itself in extraordinary weather situations, including heavy snow and hail areas. Cedar roofing material is very resistant to hail damage. Even hail depressions will recover without affecting the service life of the roof, thanks to the wood fibers' natural resiliency.
Cedar roofing is extremely resistant to heavy winds. Cedar roofs have withstood wind tests in excess of 130 miles per hour without damage.
Cedar is the natural roof that "man made" roofing materials try to imitate. It has an exceptions strength-to-weight ratio, minimal expansion and contraction from changes in moisture content or temperature. It is highly impermeable to liquids. And, cedar keeps its beauty and protective abilities with very little maintenance.
..........AND FOR SPECIAL CONDITIONS
Decay resistance: Where heat and humidity are severe, particularly in the Southeastern United States and Hawaii, Certi-Last cedar roofs have been proven highly effective in preventing decay from moss, mildew and fungus.
Fire Resistance: In the notorious hill-brush fire hazard areas of Southern California, or when codes require, specify fire resistant cedar shakes or shingles. Through pressure injection at the factory, a special fire retardant is forced into every cell of the wood. Kiln drying solidifies the formula and permanently locks in fire protection.
Subjected to nine rigorous tests developed by Underwriters' Laboratories (UL), Certi-Guard has proven so safe that it meets or exceeds the toughest model building code specifications. It also conforms to all state and local building codes for use in fire hazard regions and for both residential and commercial structures. Your roofing contractor can help you determine which product is right if special conditions exist in your area.
MINIMUM CARE FOR MAXIMUM ROOF LIFE
Properly cared for, some cedar roofs have provided service for half a century or more. A little effort will go a long way to keep your new cedar roof in top condition.
As with any roof, it's a good idea to remove leaves and other debris which retain moisture. This will reduce the potential for moss growth. Keep an eye on roof areas which are directly under tree branches.
In wet and/or humid conditions, all roofing materials are susceptible to moss and fungus growth.After the first 12-24 months, we recommend applying an effective wood preservative on a cedar roof, unless factory treated material has been used.
Following the initial application, a preservative should be reapplied about every five years. This will help prevent moss and fungus growth. It will add years of life and beauty to shakes and shingles in any climate.
THE NEXT STEP: Locating a qualified contractor
To locate a qualified contractor, look no farther than 1st Class Builders. Inquire about our warranty that we offers. Ask for the names and numbers of our recent customers and find out if they were satisfied with the work.
