Frequently Asked Questions

UV is by far the worst problem facing cedar roofs and the main reason they do not last as long as they used to. When UV hits the wood it starts being absorbed by the lignin, which is the material that binds the wood cells together. Once destroyed, the lignin washes out of wood, exposing the cellulose fibers causing the roof to look grey.
Moisture is next. When a shake is new it will retain less than 5% moisture. As shakes get older, they lose their natural oils and the lignum (natural oil in cedar) breaks down. Shakes that are 10 to 12 years old can retain up to 50% and more moisture, leading to more unwanted fungus growth and rot.
Moss and algae are the most commonly recognized problem on a cedar roof and usually found on roofs when there is not enough airflow across the roof to keep it dry. The north side is vulnerable, as is any portion that is shaded most of the time. It is also an indicator that your roof is holding onto too much water, allowing fungus growth to spread.
Cracks occur from the wood being stressed with moisture/sun over and over. The wood expands and contracts, creating tiny hairline cracks, which, over time, get larger.
Cupping and curling are caused when sun and rain stress the wood, (usually not vertical grain).
Debris from trees collects in between the shakes and is a foothold for the growth of moss and lichen becoming the first step in the compost cycle which attacks the thinnest part of the tapered shakes

A restored roof that is properly maintained may often double the life of the roof; saving costly roof replacement that increases in price every year.
A restored roof looks like new and dramatically increases the value of your home and there will be no question of your roof passing a home inspection.
Extending the life of your roof is economically sound.

Most likely yes, although if neglected for too long, even a cedar roof may require replacement
A good rule of thumb is that shingle roofs older than 20 years will be difficult to restore and it may be better value for you to replace your roof. However, there are many variables that come into play, so each roof should be assessed on an individual basis.

The big advantage to an oil-based product is that it does a great deal to replenish the oils and resins in the wood and to protect it from moisture, sun and heat.

Insects or organic organisms thrive on natural oils (tung, linseed, palm, rosewood, and soy). These oils are all a natural food source for mold, mildew, insects and fungi. There are also better penetrating oils among the petroleum-based products.

Oil based products penetrate deeper and help combat weather stress better, according to the US Service Forest Products Lab and Texas Forest Products Lab. Water based solutions are all right for areas that have 13 or less inches of rain annually.

Oil based products penetrate deeper and help combat weather stress better, according to the US Service Forest Products Lab and Texas Forest Products Lab. Water based solutions are all right for areas that have 13 or less inches of rain annually.