FAQs

Why should I clean and preserve my Cedar Roof?
A wooden shingle or shake roof once represented one of the few types of roofs available. Today, it is a premium product that costs the homeowner five times as much money to purchase and install than the more common asphalt shingle roof. The rising costs of cedar in the years to come will make wood roofs an expense few will have the luxury to afford.

How long will my cedar roof last?
In southeastern Pennsylvania the average life of a cedar roof ranges between 16 to 20 years. With proper maintenance, a cedar roof can last up to 50 years.

At what age should I start preserving my roof?
We recommend preservation after 10 to 12 months of product installation. By starting maintenance this early, not only are you protecting your roof but you save money by eliminating the need to have your wood roof power cleaned prior to preservation. Generally speaking the sooner preservation takes place in the life of your roof the longer you can expect it to last.

How long does the treatment last?
Your first treatment will last between five and six years. Subsequent treatments can last as long as 6-7 years. Remember, you can save money on all your preservation treatments by eliminating the power clean stage by staying within your maintenance period.

Why must my roof be cleaned prior to treatment?
It is necessary for your wood to be cleaned to allow the preservatives to be absorbed. Mold, Mildew, and dead wood fibers would stop the wood from absorbing the preservatives.
(See process)

How does the cost of preservation compare to a re-roof?
Preservation costs are relatively inexpensive compared to a re-roof. With the cost of cedar continuing to rise, preservation just makes sense.
(See graph)

Can power washing damage my wood roof?
Yes, in the wrong hands a power washer can damage the wood. Using the proper wood restorer, the correct pressure, and the right fan tip, power washing is the only way to completely clean the roof.

How can I expect the preservatives to perform?
The preservatives give complete protection against moisture and sunlight: your roofs greatest enemies. You can expect your tinted preservative to hold its color protecting your roof from damaging UV Rays. The "free" oils fill in the spaces in the wood that open up through the aging process. This closes off any openings for destructive growths. TWP Shake and Shingle is the #1 rated and preferred roof treatment product in the United States.
(See TWP Process: The Best Buy in Wood Preservation)

Can any power washing company clean and preserve my roof?
The Cedar Shake and Shingle is unlike any other wood surface including cedar decking. Your wood roof requires both specific knowledge and skill. Variables on every job include, proper roofing, equipment, type of shingle, specific cleaning chemicals, and wood restoratives, and necessary water pressure and fan tips. Only the knowledge of these variables and how they relate to each other can assure you of a successful job. Our company is an approved maintenance technician of the Cedar Shake and Shingle Bureau. Remember, for your protection, only workers with the proper insurance should work on your roof. The Cedar Roof Preservation Co. carries the necessary coverages.

Additional information can be found at:

http://www.cedarbureau.org

http://www.cedar-guild.com