by Roofer911.com |
There are things you can do to clean and maintain your cedar shake roofing that will protect it from damage and help delay the need for roof repair by a professional roofer. A common problem for this type of roofing material is the growth of moss. Too much moss cover can force rain water to back up the roof and seep through the shingles. It also holds moisture that will cause the shakes to rot after a while.
If you live in an area where there are lots of tall pine trees, the needle accumulating on the roof can affect the lifespan of the roof. Cedar is a material that needs to breathe, so burying it in organic debris will cause it to deteriorate. It also encourages the growth of moss.
To prevent moss, roofers nail strips of zinc or copper along the ridge cap. They can also be nailed onto the roof a few courses below the roof ridge. When it rains, the reaction between the rain and the zinc or copper created a mild solution that runs down the roof for 2 or 3 feet. It discourages the moss from taking root. It does not harm your roof.
There are also several cedar shake roofing preservatives on the market that can be very effective. Make sure you read the Material Safety Data Sheet for these products so you are aware of how to use them and their effects on the environment. If you have concerns, your roofing contractor can advise you on products that are safe, yet do the job of slowing down the moss.
Steven Briesemeister
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