Cedar shake roofs are a popular choice for homeowners who desire an attractive and natural look for their homes. However, one concern often raised by potential buyers and homeowners is how cedar shake roofs withstand severe weather conditions like hailstorms. In this article, we will delve into the characteristics of cedar shake roofs and discuss their ability to endure hailstorms.
Understanding Cedar Shake Roofs
Before we explore how cedar shake roofs fare in hailstorms, let’s understand what makes them a popular roofing choice. Cedar shakes are wooden shingles cut from cedar logs. They offer a timeless and classic appearance, adding rustic charm to any home. Additionally, cedar is durable and possesses natural resistance to insects, decay, and rotting.
The Resilience of Cedar Shake Roofs
Cedar shake roofs are known for their ability to withstand various weather elements, including strong winds, heavy rains, and even snowstorms. Their resilience largely stems from the type of wood used and the installation techniques employed. However, when it comes to hailstorms, homeowners often worry about the potential damage due to the impact of hailstones.
Hailstorms and their Impact
Hailstorms can be a significant threat to any roofing material, including cedar shakes. Hailstones can vary in size, ranging from small pellets to golf ball-sized projectiles. The larger the hail size, the greater the potential damage it can cause. When hailstones impact a roof, they can cause dents, cracks, and split shakes, compromising the integrity and waterproofing of the roof.
Factors affecting Cedar Shake Roof Durability
While hailstorms can pose a risk to cedar shake roofs, several factors play a role in determining their durability:
- Cedar Quality: The quality of the cedar used plays a significant role in the roof’s ability to withstand hailstorms. Cedar shake roofs made from high-quality, aged cedar are generally more resistant to impacts and damage.
- Shake Thickness: Thicker shakes offer better resistance to hailstones compared to thinner ones. Thicker shakes have more material to absorb the impact, making them more durable.
- Installation Techniques: Proper installation is crucial to ensure roof durability. A well-installed cedar shake roof with quality underlayment and correct fastening techniques can better withstand hailstorms.
Mitigating Hailstorm Damage
While it’s impossible to completely eliminate the risk of damage during a hailstorm, homeowners with cedar shake roofs can take certain steps to mitigate potential harm:
- Regular Inspections: Regularly inspecting the roof for signs of damage such as cracked or split shakes will allow homeowners to identify and repair any vulnerabilities before a hailstorm occurs.
- Maintenance and Treatment: Regular maintenance and treatments, such as the application of wood preservatives and sealants, can enhance the overall durability of the cedar shake roof.
- Impact-Resistant Measures: Consider investing in impact-resistant underlayment or padding, designed to absorb the impact of hailstones. These additional layers can provide an extra line of defense against hailstorm damage.
Cedar shake roofs are generally durable and resistant to various weather conditions. While they may be vulnerable to the impact of hailstones during hailstorms, the quality of cedar used, shake thickness, proper installation techniques, and regular maintenance practices all influence their ability to withstand such events. Homeowners who opt for cedar shake roofs should be proactive in inspecting and maintaining their roofs to ensure they can endure hailstorms and remain as a long-lasting roofing choice.