Tips for Cedar Shake Roofs: Keeping Your Seattle Home Pristine

Seattle’s lush greenery and frequent rainfall make it a beautiful place to live. The woody aesthetic of cedar shake roofs makes them a natural fit for many homes in the Puget Sound area, but the damp climate can be challenging for homeowners. Cedar shakes are a stunning and durable roofing option, but they require periodic maintenance to extend their lifespan and keep them looking their best.

With proper care, your cedar shake roof can withstand Seattle’s wet weather and remain in excellent condition for decades.

Spring: Inspection and Preventative Maintenance

Spring in Seattle brings a mix of rain and moderate temperatures, making it the perfect time to have your cedar shake roof inspected for wear and any damage sustained over the winter.

• Check for Loose or Missing Shakes: Heavy rains and wind can loosen shakes, creating gaps that allow moisture to seep in. Have any missing or damaged shakes replaced immediately.
  
  
• Clear Debris: Having leaves, branches and moss buildup removed can help prevent trapped moisture, which can lead to rot.
  
  
• Inspect for Mold and Mildew: The damp conditions of winter can promote the growth of mold and mildew. Be on the lookout for dark spots or discoloration, which may indicate fungal growth. If you notice potential problem spots, you should call a roofer experienced with cedar shake to have your roof professionally inspected.
  
  
• Gutter Cleaning: Your gutters and downspouts should be clear to prevent water from backing up onto your roof.
  
  

Schedule a professional roof inspection with Chet’s Roofing & Construction to identify minor issues before they escalate into costly repairs.

Summer: Deep Cleaning and Protection

Seattle’s summer brings drier weather, making it an ideal time for more intensive cedar shake roof maintenance before the rainy season returns. Some of the maintenance tasks a qualified cedar shake roofer can perform include:

• Power Wash (Gently): A low-pressure wash can help remove dirt, algae, and mildew, but high-pressure washing can damage the wood. Homeowners should hire a roofer experienced in cleaning cedar shake roofs rather than one unfamiliar with the material. Given the cost of roof replacement and the risk of damage, it’s best to leave cedar shake cleaning to professionals.
  
  
• Apply Wood Preservative: A roofer can treat your cedar shakes with a wood preservative to protect against moisture absorption and UV damage.
  
  
• Check for Insect Damage: During a professional inspection, roofers will look for signs of termites or other wood-boring insects that may weaken the shakes.
  
  
• Trim Overhanging Branches: You should call a tree trimmer to cut away branches growing over your roof to prevent excess moisture retention caused by tree limbs touching your roof.

Talk to your roofer about fungicide or algaecide treatment and whether it’s worth the added cost to prevent moss and mildew regrowth.

Cedar Shake Roof Risks and Warning Signs

Cedar shake roofs are built to withstand the elements, but moisture, debris and seasonal temperature fluctuations can accelerate wear and lead to costly damage. Homeowners should watch for these common warning signs, especially during Seattle’s wet fall and winter months:

• Persistent Dampness – If shakes never fully dry out, they may not be ventilating properly, increasing the risk of rot and fungal growth.
  
  
• Moss and Algae Growth – The Puget Sound’s damp climate makes cedar roofs prone to moss, which holds moisture against the wood and can cause premature deterioration.
  
  
• Warping or Splitting Shakes – Temperature fluctuations and moisture exposure can cause shakes to curl, crack or split, exposing the roof to leaks.
  
  
• Darkened or Soft Wood – Discoloration or softness can indicate early wood rot, which weakens the roof’s structure over time.
  
  
• Debris Accumulation – Leaves, branches and pine needles can trap moisture, increasing the risk of water damage and clogged drainage systems.
  
  
• Interior Water Stains – Brown spots on ceilings or walls suggest that moisture is making its way inside, which could be a sign of a failing underlayment or damaged shakes.

Annual inspections by a professional roofer can catch these issues early, preventing more extensive damage and prolonging the life of your cedar shake roof.

Why Choose Chet’s Roofing for Cedar Shake Maintenance?

At Chet’s Roofing & Construction, we specialize in cedar shake roof maintenance and repair. Our roofers will ensure your home stays protected and visually appealing throughout Seattle’s changing seasons.

Not every roofer installs cedar shake roofing or understands how Seattle’s rainy climate affects it. We have the expertise to provide dependable maintenance and repair solutions tailored to your roofing needs.

Protect Your Seattle Cedar Shake Roof

Cedar shake roofs are a timeless and elegant choice for homes in the Puget Sound area, but they require proper maintenance to stay in top shape. Scheduling annual inspections and maintenance can help prevent costly damage and extend the life of your roof.

For professional cedar shake inspections, repairs and maintenance, trust the experts at Chet’s Roofing. Contact us on our website today to schedule a consultation or give us a call at (877) 611-1514 and keep your home pristine year-round!