Why do Cedar Trees Make Such Good Shake Roofs?

Very large, evergreen trees that are members of the Cupressaceae family, cedar trees commonly grow to some 50 feet and have been known to hit 100 feet or more. You will typically find them in forested areas that enjoy a decent amount of yearly rainfall, and they flourish in moist soil with limestone under it. Cedar trees have a long life span, part of that being due to genetics and part to their habitat being very moist and free from fire.

Cedar wood resists disease and has a very pleasant smell to it, as well, due to its natural oils that also repel insects and fungus. This is why cedar wood chips are often used in closets and dressers, to keep away pests and impart a nice aroma, too. People have used cedar trees for building purposes for hundreds of years. Native Americans actually used the trees for building everything from structures, canoes and other boats to weapons, bowls, boxes and baskets. The bark of the cedar tree served as an excellent source of fuel and is used today to make pencils and other tools.

Up on the roof
Despite metal and other types of materials gaining ground as materials for roofing, wood remains the most sought after materials. The look of a wood roof is appealing while the durability of a cedar roof, specifically, is remarkable. Cedar makes excellent roofing material for variety of reasons. One of the nicest things about it is that the wood absorbs noise because of its grain and density, making it ideal to use for family structures. There is little need to worry about termites or other harmful wood-eating pests because they do not like the cedar. Choosing cedar over a different wood roof can extend the roof's lifespan up to 25 years (if properly maintained).

This is not the only way to minimize your repair costs with cedar. Some other wood roofs have the potential to grow moss or other fungi that can damage the roof and reduce its useful life, but with cedar roofs you are far less likely to see any of this due to those protective oils that the cedar tree produces. They act like natural repellents against these pesky growths, just as they do against insect pests.

Shakes that don't rattle or roll
A shake roof has a more traditional, even rustic look to it, but can be customized easily to complement a wide range of architectural styles. Another big advantage to cedar shake roofs is the fact that they resist UV damage, have a strong surface and can withstand heavy storms and hail. Cedar shakes should remain flat, undergo little shrinkage and suffer few splits or breaks throughout their lifetimes. If a roof is installed properly it should not lose many shakes during heavy weather. Finally, many cedar shake manufacturers treat them with a fire-resistant chemical to add yet another kind of protection to the home.

Due to its density, cedar has more than a little insulating efficiency, too. Even a cedar roof acts as an insulator and, in combination with other insulation -- including some kinds that are make with (you guessed it) ground cedar wood -- can keep a home warm even in the harshest winter conditions. Cedar can also help keep your home cool in the summer for the same reasons. Other materials can accomplish the same thing, but its combination of advantages ranging from the practical to the cosmetic make cedar an excellent choice for many homeowners.

Invest in the home
In this day and age, with all the concerns about energy use and conservation, doing everything you can to reduce home heating/cooling costs is not an option, but an economic necessity. No single project, upgrade or device will magically eliminate your utility bill. However, a plan that includes new insulation, perhaps some solar panels, a set of new home-dweller habits and an efficient cedar roof just might shave some dollars off that monthly power company payment.

In fact, its proponents think that a cedar shake roof can be one of the best investments you can make for you home. Not only are they very beautiful and appealing, they last for many years and that saves you both money and many headaches. If you plan to look into cedar roofing for your home, it is always best to speak with several experts. They can give you helpful tips and advice on whether or not a cedar shake roof is a good choice for your home.