Saturday, March 16, 2024
HomeCleanHow To Clean A Cedar Roof

How To Clean A Cedar Roof

Should I Seal My Cedar Roof To Keep Out Moisture

Gentle Cedar Roof Cleaning

No. Never seal your cedar roof. Sealing the roof will lock in moisture that would otherwise naturally evaporate during normal weather conditions. Cedar needs to breathe and thus a water repellant type product, rather than a water proofer is the best route to follow. See the CSSBs Care & Maintenance Brochure for complete topical treatment product guidelines available from the CSSB.

Cedartech Is Here For All Your Roofing Needs

At CedarTech, we also offer Portland cedar roof repair. Maybe you dont want or need your whole roof treated it just needs a little maintenance. We are here for all of your needs, both small and great! Although we specialize in cedar roofs, we also offer our services for composition roofs, as well.

We offer the following services:

  • Roof and gutter cleaning

Boise Cedar Shake Roof Cleaning

Do you have a cedar shake roof on your home? If so, you may already be aware that the cost to replace it can be extremely high. Cedar is an attractive and durable wood that can last for decades if properly maintained. Unfortunately, many people end up replacing their entire cedar shake roof prematurely when all it needed was regular cleanings.

In the same way that you clean your teeth regularly to avoid buildup that can break down the enamel, you should have your cedar shakes cleaned to remove the moss, mold and fungi that grow on them. These infestations trap moisture against the wood which encourages rot and decay that can drastically reduce its lifespan.

You may be wondering if you really need your roof cleaned if it does not appear to have much moss or noticeable growth on it. Well, if your roof is discolored and is now a dirty gray rather than its original buff tan it may be covered in algae and mold. Again, these organic growths can deteriorate the surface of the wood and cause rot and decay.

Don’t Miss: Metal Roof Skylight

What Can I Do To Prevent The Shakes On My Roof From Turning Gray

There are many topical treatments available that contain color tints. Contact a local, competent, professional paint contractor/paint store for more details. If you have a pressure-impregnated treated product, always check with the treatment company to obtain their recommendation on roof maintenance prior to authorizing your contractor to begin work.

Clean Gutters To Ensure Moisture Isnt Retained

Cedar roof cleaning advice

An important step for maintenance of any roofing type, cleaning gutters is especially critical for cedar shake roofs to ensure moisture isnt trapped in your roof. If backed up, the water will soak your shingles and can lead to rot. Be sure to check gutters regularly, with increased urgency in the fall season when leaves and additional debris are falling.

Don’t Miss: Extending Roof Overhang Cost

Damages Caused In Cedar Roofing

Signs like splits in the wood, moss growth, missing shingles, broken, or curling are the symptoms of damage occurring to your cedar roof. As soon you could notice these symptoms kindly take expert help to prevent your roof from damaging.

These signs are common to all kinds of roofing, no matter what material. With the help of our experts or workers, you can easily repair your cedar roofing. Cedar roofing commonly suffer from damages caused naturally in the environment.

Removing Moss From Cedar Roofing Shingles

In autumn, the leaves begin to drop from the trees, a layer of green moss at the rooftops harms the beauty of your home. In Chicago, the mildew and moss grow on your cedar roof in both spring and autumn though because in these seasons the roofing becomes prone to the lower PH, low humidity and low moisture.

Moss on Cedar Shake has the ability to tolerate extremes in temperature and moisture levels.

You May Like: How Much Shingle Roof Cost

What Vancouver Homeowners Need To Know About Cedar Roof Cleaning

A gorgeous cedar roof for your home is, of course, a major investment. Maintaining it properly is important for a number of reasons.

Optimizing its curb appeal is one of them. Obviously, someone who buys a beautiful house with cedar roofing wants to feel proud of their home. Perhaps more importantly, you might plan on selling your house in the future.

It needs to look as attractive as possible when you reach this stage. Curb appeal will always impact how valuable potential buyers perceive your home to be. If your roofing is ugly and in disrepair, theyll be less likely to make an ideal offer. On the other hand, if theyre struck by how pristine your home is, theyll be inclined to pay more.

You also need to know that debris and grime can damage your cedar roofing over time if you dont clean it often.

You dont want rot to set in when you have cedar roofing. As beautiful as it is, its important to understand that when rot starts, it spreads throughout your roofing pretty quickly. Thus, failing to keep your roofing clean may force you to replace it earlier than you otherwise would have. Thats a big expense that proper upkeep will help you avoid. In the meantime, youll also have to worry about potentially costly issues that might arise when your roofing is in disrepair, such as water damage from leaks. A leak could also create a moist environment for mold to thrive in.

Why Alpine Roof Care

How to Clean a Cedar Shake Roof | Clean Pro Exteriors

Established in 1992, Alpine Roof Care has been providing the greater Seattle area including Mill Creek, Arlington, Edmonds & Renton professional, punctual and affordable roof cleaning services. With the ability to service all aspects of roof maintenance including roof repair, roof sealing, reroofing, and roof cleaning there is no need to bounce around from company to company. Instead, get all your clean roof needs met here and keep your family warm and dry.

We are a forward-thinking company and is proud to be one of the first in the area to implement green roofing. Our green roofing program recycles 90% of its tear-off materials accumulated during a roofing repair or roof replacement service. Along with the use of environmentally safe products, we strive to give you the best possible reroof and roof replacement services while taking care of the environment.

We proudly serve the greater Seattle area including:

Read Also: How To Extend A Roof

Gentle Cedar Roof Cleaning Process

  • Removingthe sources of remains accumulation, lichen, and moss and mold growth.
  • Removingover hanging branches and trees that are on the roof can minimize growth oflichen on cedar roofs.
  • Wash-downthe roof with a soft cleaner.
  • Soakthe roof in sodium per carbonate as the active ingredient. Oxygen or chlorinebleach solutions rapidly kill external molds and algae.
  • Asthe fungus is removed the wood changes color from a dirty gray to buff tan.
  • Overtime the ultraviolet emission in sunlight will partly damage wood surfaces.
  • Thebleach solution will then take away some weathered wood fibers from thesurface. It is the best method to use but it takes effect after 6 months.
  • Cleaningcedar roof soft wash process is a better option. Apply specially formulatedsolution in the Cedar roof to kill the fungus.

    Growthof lichen is widespread in areas of periodically dump cool weather conditions.Roofs that experience a lot of sunlight have less lichen compared to those withless sunlight on the roof. Organicmatter like leaves, twigs or debris on the roof speed up growth of lichen onthe roof. More lichen grows on surfaces that are moist and shaded.

    Cleaningcan be tiresome especially when there is no remedy to prevent future growth oflichen. Prevention can be done by keeping the surfaces roof surfaces dry by useof âexternal water repellant.â Always trim branches hanging on the roof andkeep the roof clean.

    • TAGS

    Cleaning A Cedar Roof

    If your cedar roof appears faded, stained, dirty or moss covered you may be interested in cedar roof cleaning. A properly cleaned cedar roof is both beautiful and durable, with a higher wind and impact resistance and better insulation value than other roofing materials. Cedar is also naturally rot-resistant and can last 50 years or more with recommended maintenance.

    Even if your roof already exhibits signs of decay on the butt-end of the cedar shake/shingle, it may still be a good candidate for cleaning. In situations where this type of roof rot is present, the removal of the decay is an important step in stopping the loss and preventing further damage.

    Dont let debris like this sit on your cedar roof

    Dont trust just any roof cleaning service to wash your cedar roof, though. In the wrong hands, a power washer can damage the shake/shingles. Using a cedar roof expert to evaluate and clean your cedar roof is the only way to assure it receives the proper wood restorer, the correct pressure and the right fan tip, to completely and safely wash your cedar roof.

    Also Check: Hydro Stop Roof Coating Cost

    Custom Calculators With Homewyse Lists

    Service Professionals: create a reusable estimating app that is 100% customized to your business. Start with a template or build your own :

    For a basic project in zip code 47474 with 500 square feet, the cost to Clean Cedar Shake Roof starts at $0.23 – $0.38 per square foot*. Actual costs will depend on job size, conditions, and options.

    To estimate costs for your project:

    1. Set Project Zip Code Enter the Zip Code for the location where labor is hired and materials purchased.

    2. Specify Project Size and Options Enter the number of “square feet” required for the project.

    3. Re-calculate Click the “Update” button.

    NOTE: *Input the total of the finished surface area AND the area of any openings enclosed by the finished area.

    The Roof Cleaning Process

    Cedar Shake Roof Cleaning Near Me

    Cleaning a roof boosts curb appeal, removes organic growth that deteriorates roofing materials, and reduces damage to shingles and sealing. While some companies may offer to pressure wash your roof for you, this can cause far more damage than benefit. Using pressure to clean a roof voids warranty, remove granules, and break shingles. Not to mention, only the surface layer of organic material is removed, and any pores still remain on your roof. The correct approach to clean a roof is by using a soft wash system. This way, a biodegradable solution is gently sprayed on your roof that removes moss, algae, lichen, mold, streaks, and dirt buildup. After letting our special formula dwell, we rinse it off to reveal a brand new roof underneath.

    You May Like: How Much For Shingle Roof

    With Power Comes Responsibility

    Keep your eyes open and watch where you’re spraying. Don’t directly spray light fixtures, windows, vents, or eaves. The high pressure of the water could cause serious damage when aimed poorly.Once you’re done, move onto the next pressure washing adventure. Clean your decking, strip off old paint, or even clean your sidewalks.

    We Make Buying Technical Products Simple

    Keep The Roof Free Of Debris

    One of the most helpful tips for protecting cedar roof shingles is to remove leaves and any other debris. Tree needles, moss and any lichens that may be growing can retain moisture, which can cause cedar shingles to develop wood-decaying fungus and become weak. If unattended, the shingles can quickly become very brittle, making them less resistant to water and other forms of damage.

    It is also a good idea to keep low-hanging branches from resting on the cedar shingle roof. While the cover of vegetation can act as a good barrier from UV rays, it also reduces the shingles’ ability to dry once they become wet. Additionally, low-hanging branches can pose a serious fire hazard, and an overgrown tree with weak limbs can pose a safety risk during a storm.

    Climbing onto your roof to clear debris can be dangerous, but do not ignore the issue. Call the professionals at Cedar Roof Coatings to keep your cedar shingle roof clear of debris and free of damage.

    You May Like: Cost Of New Roof California

    Why Moss On A Cedar Roof Is A Problem

    Moss is one of the most prominent threats to cedar shake roofing. Over time, moss buildup can block the flow of water and lead to leaks. Moss also absorbs moisture and soil, meaning it can damage cedar shake roofing if left without removal for an extended period.

    There are efficient and affordable ways to safely remove moss on a cedar roof. Because of the delicate nature of the shingles, it’s important to work carefully with whatever method you choose. Below are some tips and key considerations we’ve compiled for removing moss from cedar shake roof.

    Improving The Appearance Of Your Cedar Shake Roof

    Cedar Shake Roof Cleaning and Staining

    Cedar is naturally beautiful, so all that is required to return your roof to its former glory is removing the organics that have begun to grow on top of it. While some cedar roofs have clumps of moss scattered around, almost every cedar shake roof in the lower mainland becomes infested with algae and lichen. These infestations cause the roof to look stained and old.

    Also Check: Add Overhang To Side Of House

    Keep Your Cedar Shingles In Top Shape With Cedar Roof Coatings

    Cedar Roofing Coatings is a family-owned and operated business dedicated to saving you money by maintaining your roof to help preserve its ideal condition. We offer only quality services and professionalism and provide only the best roofing maintenance possible. We have built our reputation with our longstanding customers on a foundation of honesty, transparency and genuine care.

    Our team will guide you towards the best steps for preserving your cedar roof. You can rest assured that we will not tell you to replace your roof if repairing it is an efficient solution. Our goal is to inspect every roof and determine the amount of care it needs to keep it looking and functioning at its best.

    We provide several cedar roofing services, including the following:

    • Replacing ridge caps

    • Replacing rotted, damaged or curled shingles or shakes

    • Assessing, repairing and replacing vents, valleys and flashings as needed

    • Complete roof inspections

    Shingle Cleaning From Cedar Roof Coating

    In the northeastern part of the United States, inclement weather is a fact of life. With the cold and often rainy winter months, cedar shingles are a feature to cherish with their insulating properties. That said, cedar shingles need to be cleaned from time to time to protect their quality and ensure the longevity of their wood.

    In Fairfield County, CT, Westchester County, NY and the surrounding areas, Cedar Roof Coatings is the most trusted name among residents for roof cleaning services. Our family-owned and operated business comes with more than 35 years of experience, as well as a team of fully bonded, licensed and insured professionals to meet your home’s roofing needs.

    If you need cedar roof cleaning and coating, call us at 203.847.5740 or contact us online today.

    Read Also: How Much Does A Roof Cost In California

    Things You Should Know

    • To gently clean your cedar shingles, try rinsing them with a low-pressure hose, or scrub them with a soft-bristled brush if they need a little more cleaning.
    • If you have stubborn moss or mildew growing on your shingles, try spraying your roof with a citric-based cleaner or a diluted bleach and detergent mixture.
    • Use a long-handled broom or pole to clear leaves, sticks, and debris from your roof to help prevent moss, mold, and lichen from growing on your shingles.
    • Brighten your roof by spraying it with a 5% solution of oxalic acid.

    Clean The Cedar Shingles

    How to Clean Cedar Shingles: 11 Steps (with Pictures ...

    To help your cedar roofing shingles last a long time and even restore them to their former color, get a professional cleaning done. We recommend having our professionals clean your cedar roof every five to seven years for the greatest benefits.

    Taking time to clean the shingles thoroughly can help maintain your roof’s longevity. A good cleaning will remove any moss, debris, lichens or weaker wood. There are a few recommended ways to clean cedar shingle roofs. One way to clean them is to hire a professional power washing service to blast away any harmful growth and debris. Never power wash cedar roofs yourself as it can remove excessive amounts of wood and damage your shingles if done improperly.

    Another method uses special cleaning solutions, such as chlorine bleach or oxygen bleach, mixed with water. Solutions containing oxygen or chlorine bleach will quickly kill molds and algae growing on cedar shingles. Such solutions can also remove weathered wood fibers from the surface. When selecting a cleaning solution, it’s essential to choose a cleaner of the appropriate strength as excessively strong solutions can strip too much of the surface fiber.

    Read Also: Shed With Overhang Roof

    Cleaning Cedar Roof Shingles: What You Need To Know

    If you drive through a neighborhood of houses and most of them have cedar shingles, you might notice a pattern. Chances are, the homes with the best-kept yards also have the most attractive cedar shingles. The reason for this, of course, is that these are the same homeowners who keep their shingles clean. Simply put, you’ll find the best looking cedar roof shingles are rooftops that get cleaned on a periodic basis. Cedar roof cleaning can take your home to the next level.

    What Do You Use To Protect Cedar Roofing Shingles

    Treatments are highly recommended to maintain a durable and long-lasting cedar shingle roof. While cedar is considered to be naturally water-resistant, it is not enough alone. Treatments help preserve the cedar shingles from damage done by UV rays, water and other elements. Various treatments are used for cedar roofing protection.

    Some cedar shingles can be treated with bleaching oil. This treatment is typically made with linseed oil and bleach crystals. Bleaching oil protects cedar shingles from decay and contamination and helps keep the shingles from blackening, which can happen as the result of mildew and other natural substances in the wood. The treatment also lends cedar shingles a weathered look, which many people find to be visually appealing.

    Water-repellent preservatives are a clear finishing treatment that penetrates into the cedar wood shingles. Adding a protective layer against water damage, this treatment helps keep shingles in good condition. While WRPs do not have any pigment to change the shingles’ color, they do enhance their natural appearance by giving them a nice shine.

    Keep in mind that the texture of the cedar roofing shingles will determine how much product they absorb. Smooth shingles will absorb less of the treatment finishes and require reapplication more frequently. Rough and saw-textured shingles will absorb an abundance of treatment products and will need to be recoated much less often.

    You May Like: How Much Roof Overhang On Shed

    RELATED ARTICLES

    Most Popular

    How Much To Coat A Flat Roof

    Can You Finance A Metal Roof