Cedar Roof Elements: Ridge Caps
Ridge Caps: The First Line of Defense for Cedar Roofing Systems
If you’re interested in getting a cedar roof but don’t know some of the specific aesthetic choices, we recommend simple, functional attributes.
The ridge caps of a roof often receive positive attention for their good looks, but there is much more to them than their charming good looks; ridge caps serve a very functional purpose, too.
Form and Function
A cedar shingle roof features all types of aesthetically-pleasing grooves and patterns. The ridge caps add character and variation to the lines in a roof. In addition, the caps also provide some extremely effective means of protecting the rest of the roof, and the right care can yield fantastic benefits for the life of a cedar roof.
Ridge caps protect the roofing system at the apex – where the roof is most vulnerable. Without ridge caps, roofs would be particularly susceptible to weathering, rotting, and leaks.
Proper Care Makes the Difference
Although the ridge cap may be very effective at protecting a cedar shingle roof when first installed, their condition must be monitored, and they must be cared for properly for continued protection over the years.
With the correct care, ridge caps can continue to protect (and look great) for between 10 and 15 years. However, poor care can result in premature rotting; splitting and separating of cedar; and large scale decomposition of sizable sections of a cedar roof.
Needless to say, it is most certainly worthwhile to take proper care of the ridge caps of a cedar roof. They may be the unsung hero, but they are not invincible.
The Cedar Roofing Experts™ at Shake Guys are industry leaders in all-things cedar and have the experience necessary to treat your cedar wood roof with the roofing maintenance and preservation it needs.
Contact our experts for all your cedar roofing questions and concerns, or to learn how you can get the most out of your cedar wood roof system.