Cedar Roof Inspection: 7 Common Signs of Damage

Cedar roofs are a beautiful and durable roofing material, often praised for their natural charm and longevity. However, like any roof, cedar shingles are vulnerable to wear and tear over time. If you’re a homeowner with a cedar shake or shingle roof, regular maintenance and timely cedar roof inspections are key to preserving its stunning appearance and durability.

But how do you know if your roof is in trouble? Here are seven common signs of damage to look out for during a cedar roof inspection:

• Cracked or Broken Shingles
• Cupping and Curling Shakes
• Moss, Mold, or Algae Growth
• Splitting or Fraying
• Discoloration or Fading
• Moisture Damage or Rot
• Loose or Missing Shingles

Understanding these signs will help you determine when it’s time to call in a reputable roofing contractor to restore or repair your wood roof. Let’s dig into each of these signs in detail.

Cracked or Broken Shingles

One of the most obvious indicators that your cedar roof needs attention is the presence of cracked or broken shingles. Cedar shingles are designed to withstand harsh weather, but constant exposure to rain, UV rays, and wind can weaken the material over time.

Why Does This Happen?

Cracked shingles often occur due to extreme temperature fluctuations or prolonged exposure to moisture. For example, during winter, freezing and thawing cycles may cause the wood to expand and contract, eventually leading to cracks.

Why It Matters

Unlike other roofing materials, cedar relies on its structural integrity to protect your home. Cracked or broken shingles leave your roof vulnerable, as water can seep into the gaps and cause structural damage to your home. A professional roofing contractor can replace damaged shingles quickly to prevent further issues.

Cupping and Curling Shakes

Have you noticed your cedar shingles no longer lying flat against the roof? This noticeable warping of the wood, known as cupping or curling, is a common issue with older cedar roofs.

What Causes Cupping and Curling?

Cupping often results from moisture imbalances. Excess water can saturate one side of the shingle while the other side dries out under the sun, creating uneven tension and causing the wood to warp. Curling, on the other hand, may occur from improper installation or aging of the material.

How Serious Is This Problem?

Cupped and curled shakes compromise the natural water-shedding pattern of your cedar roof, making it more susceptible to leaks and water damage. During your cedar roof inspection, professional roofing contractors should evaluate the extent of the damage and suggest repair options.

Moss, Mold, or Algae Growth

While a cedar roof naturally ages into a lovely silvery-gray color, the appearance of moss, mold, or algae can signal potential issues.

Why Growth Spreads on Cedar Roofs

Cedar is a porous wood, which makes it a great roofing material but also makes it prone to retaining moisture. If your wood roof stays damp for long periods (especially in shaded areas or humid climates), moss, mold, and algae can thrive.

Why It Can’t Be Ignored

This growth doesn’t just harm the aesthetics of your roof; it poses structural risks, too. Moss and algae trap water, speeding up the decay of your cedar shingles. Additionally, mold can damage indoor air quality if left unchecked. This is why routine cedar roof inspections, including proper cleaning to remove growth, are essential.

Splitting or Fraying

Splitting or fraying shakes are other signs of wear and tear that indicate it may be time to repair or replace your cedar roof. These problems are particularly noticeable along the edges of individual shingles.

What Causes Splitting?

Splitting happens when cedar shingles dry out and lose their natural oils, reducing their flexibility. This is typical as the material ages. Fraying, on the other hand, results from the constant abrasion of environmental factors like wind and rain.

Why Prompt Action is Needed

Splits and frays not only diminish the visual appeal of your roof but also make it less effective in repelling water. Left untreated, these imperfections can grow into larger problems, such as leaks or structural rot.

Discoloration or Fading

Your cedar roof is continually exposed to the elements, and over time, you may notice discoloration or fading.

Why Does Cedar Discolor?

• This issue can stem from exposure to sunlight, water, or pollutants. Natural cedar roofs age into a soft gray shade, but darker areas of discoloration may indicate mold or water damage.

What It Means for Your Roof

• While some natural fading is unavoidable, uneven discoloration often signals trouble. A thorough cedar roof inspection can determine whether there’s hidden damage that requires repair.

Moisture Damage or Rot

Wood roofs are particularly susceptible to moisture damage if they’re not properly maintained. This is one of the most serious issues you can encounter with cedar shingles.

Signs of Moisture Problems

Look for dark patches, soft spots, or areas that feel spongy or damp to the touch. These are clear indicators of rot in the wood. You may also notice peeling paint or stains on ceilings and walls inside your home, which can be a sign your roof isn’t keeping water at bay.

Why This is Critical

Rot weakens the structural integrity of your roof, often requiring significant repairs or replacements. Professional roofing contractors can assess the damage and recommend appropriate treatment to prevent the rot from spreading.

Loose or Missing Shingles

Loose or missing shingles are visible signs that your cedar roof is not performing as it should.

Common Causes

Poor installation, storm damage, or aging can cause shingles to loosen or fall off entirely. High winds or heavy rain can lift shingles, especially on older roofs.

Immediate Risks

Even a single missing shingle can impact the overall durability of your cedar roof. Gaps allow water to seep in, leading to leaks and potential water damage inside your home. A prompt cedar roof inspection can identify weak areas before they turn into costly repairs.

How to Identify Cedar Roof Damage in 7 Simple Steps

During a cedar roof inspection, there are specific steps you can take to identify damage on your own before calling a professional roofing contractor for help.

1. Inspect From the Ground

👓 Use binoculars to look for obvious issues like missing shingles or warped shakes.

2. Check for Cracks

🏚️ Look for visible splits or fractures on shingles and shakes.

3. Examine Individual Shakes

🔍 If possible, closely inspect shakes for signs of warping, fraying, or curling.

4. Spot Growth

🌱 Identify moss, algae, or mold on shingles, especially in shaded areas.

5. Look for Rot

🧽 Carefully watch for spongy or moisture-saturated shingles that may indicate rot.

6. Check the Interiors

💧Look for water stains or peeling paint on ceilings and walls to spot potential leaks.

7. Call a Professional

📞 If you detect any of these warning signs, it’s best to involve a professional roofing contractor for a thorough assessment.

Why Choose Shake Guys for Your Cedar Roof Needs?

At Shake Guys, we understand that a cedar roof is not just a roofing material—it’s an investment in your home’s beauty, durability, and value. That’s why we specialize in cedar roof inspections, restoration, and maintenance.

Our roofing experts have years of experience in working with wood roofs, so we can quickly identify and fix issues before they escalate. Whether it’s replacing broken shingles, addressing moisture damage, or cleaning up moss and algae, we take a comprehensive approach to ensure your cedar roof stays in top condition for years to come.Don’t wait for minor damage to turn into costly repairs. Schedule your free cedar roof inspection with Shake Guys today! Our expert roofing contractors are ready to help you safeguard your home and enjoy the timeless elegance of a perfectly maintained cedar roof. Contact us now for a consultation!