Frank
Cedar shake roofs are gorgeous, but they need special care to keep looking their best. If you’re lucky enough to have one, you probably already know that it’s not just another roof—it’s a living, breathing part of your home. So before you grab a power washer or dump chemical cleaners on it, stop! Let’s talk about the right way to clean and care for your cedar shake roof.
Understanding Cedar Shake Roofs
What Are Cedar Shakes?
Cedar shakes are a type of roofing material made from natural cedar wood, hand-split or sawn into tapered pieces. They’re thicker and more rugged than traditional shingles, offering a more natural and rustic aesthetic.
Why Homeowners Choose Cedar Shake Roofs
People love cedar shakes for their durability, insulation properties, and of course, their unique look. They age beautifully—if you take care of them properly. And that’s where cleaning comes in.
Why Cleaning Cedar Shake Roofs Requires Special Attention
The Nature of the Wood
Cedar is organic. That means it reacts to moisture, mold, sunlight, and even the products you use on it. If you’re not careful, cleaning it the wrong way can shorten its lifespan dramatically.
Environmental Sensitivity
Because cedar is biodegradable and comes from nature, it’s important to treat it with products that are kind to the environment. Plus, runoff from your roof goes straight into your yard—or your neighbor’s.
1. Inspect Before You Clean
Look for Damage or Rot
Before anything else, do a thorough inspection. Check for soft spots, missing shakes, or signs of dry rot. Cleaning without repairing these can cause more harm than good.
Note Moss, Algae, or Mold Growth
Cedar is a magnet for moss and algae, especially in shady or humid areas. Identify where it’s growing so you can treat it correctly.
✅ Checklist for Roof Cleaning
Don’t go in blind—have a game plan. Following a roof cleaning checklist ensures you cover everything from safety gear to cleaning methods.
2. Choose Eco-Friendly Solutions
The Importance of Biodegradable Products
Harsh chemicals can kill the natural oils in cedar, leading to cracking and decay. Instead, look for biodegradable cleaners specifically made for wood roofs.
🌿 Eco-Friendly Roof Cleaning
🌎 Biodegradable Cleaning Products
These not only protect your roof but also your garden, pets, and the local environment.
3. Avoid High-Pressure Washing
How Pressure Can Damage Shakes
Power washers might make quick work of dirt, but they can splinter your cedar and force water into places it shouldn’t be. That’s asking for mold, leaks, or worse.
🚫 Delicate Roof Techniques
Instead of blasting away grime, opt for soft washing or hand-cleaning techniques that are gentle on your roof.
4. Use Specialized Tools for Gentle Cleaning
Brushes, Sprayers, and Soakers
A good cedar shake cleaning kit includes soft bristle brushes, low-pressure sprayers, and garden soakers. The goal is to lift the grime, not scrape it away.
🧰 Roof Cleaning Tools & Products
The right gear makes all the difference. If you’re not sure what to use, check out this page for a breakdown of professional-grade tools.
5. Apply Treatments to Preserve the Wood
Natural Oils and Protective Coatings
Once your roof is clean, it’s time to condition and protect it. Think of this as moisturizer for your shingles. Apply cedar oil or specialized sealants to keep the wood hydrated and rot-resistant.
🛡️ Maintenance & Safety Guidelines
These treatments not only preserve the appearance but extend the life of your roof significantly.
6. Ensure Safe Access and Ladder Placement
Ladder Safety Guidelines
Let’s not forget about you! Cleaning a cedar shake roof usually means climbing a ladder and walking on a sloped surface. One wrong step and it could be a trip to the ER.
⚠️ Ladder Safety Tips
🧯 OSHA Roof Safety Standards
Follow OSHA rules and never clean a roof alone. Your safety is just as important as your roof’s.
7. Consider Hiring a Professional Roof Cleaner
What to Look For in a Roof Cleaning Pro
Sometimes the best choice is calling in the pros. Look for companies with cedar experience, the right tools, and a portfolio that proves they know their stuff.
🧠 Roof Cleaning Hiring Tips
💼 Benefits of Professional Service
Hiring a pro ensures proper methods and saves you the headache—and the risk.
Final Thoughts on Cedar Shake Roof Care
A cedar shake roof is an investment. Like anything valuable, it needs routine care. Whether you’re going DIY or calling in professionals, cleaning it the right way ensures it will continue to protect and beautify your home for decades to come.
For more expert guidance on roof cleaning techniques, visit our in-depth guide here:
🔗 Roof Cleaning Techniques
Also, explore the basics of roof cleaning to ensure you’re not missing a step:
🔗 Basics of Roof Cleaning
FAQs
1. How often should I clean my cedar shake roof?
Ideally, once every 2–3 years, depending on climate and tree coverage.
2. Can I walk on my cedar shake roof while cleaning?
It’s best to avoid it. If you must, use boards to distribute your weight evenly and never walk on wet shakes.
3. What’s the safest way to remove moss from cedar shakes?
Use a soft brush and apply a biodegradable moss remover designed for wood.
4. Do cedar shake roofs need sealing after every cleaning?
Not every time, but a protective treatment every 4–5 years helps preserve the wood.
5. What’s the difference between cedar shingles and shakes?
Shingles are sawn for a smoother look, while shakes are split for a more rustic finish.
6. Is professional cedar roof cleaning expensive?
It depends on the size of your roof, but average prices range from $0.60 to $1.50 per sq ft.
7. Will insurance cover damage from improper roof cleaning?
Usually not. That’s why hiring a professional or following best practices is critical.