Roof & exterior
Care for a wood shake or shingle roof
Cedar roofing performs best when it can shed water and dry freely. Regular professional observation and prompt removal of moisture-trapping debris can help prevent premature deterioration.
Recommended timingInspect every spring and fall; after major storms
What to do
- From the ground, look for missing, displaced, badly curled or broken shakes; wide splits; exposed underlayment; damaged flashing; sagging; and changes in the roofline.
- Have a qualified cedar-roof professional inspect the roof every year—or more often when exposure, age or prior concerns justify it—and after severe wind, hail or falling branches.
- Have leaves, needles, branches, dirt and other debris removed from the roof, valleys and gutters. Cedar needs airflow, and trapped organic material holds moisture against the wood.
- Trim overhanging branches to reduce debris, abrasion and shade while preserving safe clearance from the roof; use qualified tree and roofing professionals rather than working from the roof.
- Have moss, algae or lichen evaluated and cleaned with methods appropriate for cedar. Do not scrape, pressure-wash or apply household bleach or an improvised chemical mixture yourself.
- Never seal or waterproof a cedar roof. If a topical preservative or water-repellent treatment is considered, use a cedar-roof specialist and a product that meets Cedar Shake & Shingle Bureau guidance and the installed product warranty.
- Keep records of the shake or shingle type, treatment, installer, repairs and any cleaning or preservative products used.
Do not walk on a wood roof. Weathered shakes can be brittle, loose and slippery, and improper foot traffic or cleaning can damage the roof. Use a qualified professional experienced with cedar roofing.
Official guidance and sources
Product instructions and local requirements take priority for the equipment or material installed at your home.