how to repair first course cedar shake roof

Now follow these steps to make your cedar shake roof leak repair:

• Place a wooden block flat on the roof below the area of repair to protect the shakes immediately below from damage.
• Hold downward pressure against the block with the bar. Cut off the roofing nails at the underside of the shake with a...
• Put on work gloves and use pliers to fold under the opposite corners...

Full Answer

What is the difference between cedar shingles and cedar shakes?

Cedar shingles are regularly used on walls, but cedar shakes are more common on roofs. So, what’s the difference? Shingles are sawn on both sides and thinner than shakes. Shakes are thicker, and split on one or both sides.

Why are cedar roofs on the decline?

Use these modern methods and materials to create a timeless and durable wood roof. Synopsis: Cedar roofs, once relatively common, have been on the decline due to the rising cost of cedar and the growing popularity of metal.

What is the difference between a shingle and a shake?

Shingles are sawn on both sides and thinner than shakes. Shakes are thicker, and split on one or both sides. There are two types of wood used for shakes: western red cedar and Alaskan yellow cedar. Alaskan yellow cedar is actually a kind of cypress and is harder than red cedar.

Can you repair cedar shake roof?

Cedar shake roofs are well-known for being durable and long-lived. However, even cedar roofs will eventually need repair and replacement. While many cedar shake repairs are simple, they must be performed the right way to be effective and to avoid compromising the roof.

How do you repair cedar shingles on a roof?

1:193:47Marley cedar Shingles fixing guide - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipFixings should be positioned 19 millimeters in from the edge of the shingle to avoid splitting. AndMoreFixings should be positioned 19 millimeters in from the edge of the shingle to avoid splitting. And 38 millimeters up from the butt of the course above. An independent test witnessed by the NFRC.

Should you seal a cedar shake roof?

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.

Can you repair shake roof?

Use the same type of shakes or shingles to replace the damaged ones. If a ridge shingle is damaged, use a new specially cut ridge shingle instead of trying to make do with regular shingles. To repair a wooden shake roof: Step 1: Use hammer and sharp chisel to split damaged shake.

How do I start my cedar shingles course first?

1:067:01How to Install Cedar Shingle Siding | This Old House - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipAnd then gently push it against it with a little bit of an air gap. Don't force it tight you want toMoreAnd then gently push it against it with a little bit of an air gap. Don't force it tight you want to have a little bit of a gap there. All.

What is the lifespan of a cedar shake roof?

Cedar roofs are always working hard to fight off the elements. The minimum cedar shingle roof life expectancy is 30 years — however, when you regularly maintain it, it can last an astounding 50 years or more. We've even seen some Cedar roofs last over 90 years!

Can you pressure wash a cedar shake roof?

Cedar shake siding will grow algae and mold if it's not cleaned once in a while. Algae and mold will cause deterioration and discoloration to your cedar siding. Much like a wooden deck, you can use detergents and a pressure washer to blast the grime away and reveal the beautiful cedar color within.

What do you seal cedar shakes with?

Using stain and clear coat does protect the wood and gives you a longer life for the roof or siding. The other finishing option is paint. You can paint the cedar to whatever color you wish. The natural oils in the cedar can discolor paint so be sure to apply a oil based primer coat to seal it.

How do I know if my cedar shake roof is bad?

These are signs to look out for in order to avoid costly repairs or a full roof replacement.Leaks. The most common problem that Portland homeowners face when they have a damaged roof is leaks. ... Curling. ... Split Shingles. ... Moss/Rot. ... Missing or Damaged Shingles.

Should you treat cedar shakes?

Without treatments, cedar shakes can degrade over time, with constant exposure to the sun's UV rays, the elements, and water, of course. It also means that the cedar shakes can suffer from fungus and algae growth without proper treatment. Most importantly, without treatment, cedar shake shingles can catch on fire.

How much does it cost to replace a cedar shake roof?

Cedar Shake Roof Cost The average price range to install a 3,000-square foot shake roof is between $18,000 and $20,000, or about $600 to $670 per square. Low cost for installation is around $16,000 and high cost is about $27,000.

Do cedar shake roofs leak?

Cedar shakes expand in moist weather and contract in warm weather. Over time, this can cause some of the shakes or the roofing paper underlayment to deteriorate, which may result in a leak.

What is the difference between cedar shakes and cedar shingles?

So, what’s the difference? Shingles are sawn on both sides and thinner than shakes. Shakes are thicker, and split on one or both sides. There are two types of wood used for shakes: western red cedar and Alaskan yellow cedar. Alaskan yellow cedar is actually a kind of cypress and is harder than red cedar. Alaskan yellow cedar, although popular on the West Coast, is relatively unheard of in the eastern

Why are cedar roofs on the decline?

Synopsis: Cedar roofs, once relatively common, have been on the decline due to the rising cost of cedar and the growing popularity of metal. But the rustic look is unmatched, which is why the homeowners in this article wanted their replacement roof to look exactly like their old one.

Is yellow cedar popular in Alaska?

Alaskan yellow cedar, although popular on the West Coast, is relatively unheard of in the eastern. United States. The responsibility of deciding the grading standards and installation details for red- and yellow-cedar roofs falls to the Cedar Shake and Shingle Bureau (CSSB).

Is cedar roof rare?

Cedar roofs have become pretty rare in my neck of the woods. The rising cost of cedar and the increased popularity of metal have turned what was once a relatively common roof type in the early 20th century into a boutique option. It doesn’t help that I’m a few thousand miles from the nearest western red cedar tree.