Although metal and various other construction materials are gaining popularity these days, wood and in particular western red cedar (cedar shingles for roofing) still remains one of the most preferred options for many homeowners. There is definitely something about them that makes them so cozy, mystical and comfortable. Just imagine a country home, where roofs are made using cedar shingles and walls, stairs, and floors are made using various species of wood.

For this reason, there are many homeowners who still love to use cedar shingles for roofing. It is due to its various advantages and inherent beauty. Wood has been known as a long lasting material for centuries. As long as wood is not exposed to too much moisture, it can last for decades. Even if cedar shingles are prone to fire, they can still provide much better insulation during the cold winter months .

cedar shinglesIf you are looking to replace your roofing shingles, cedar shingles are an excellent way to enhance the curb appeal of your house while increasing its value. It’s not difficult to understand why somebody would like to add cedar shingles to their house. Cedar is very beautiful when compared to any other roofing material, but how do you choose the kind of cedar shingles for the roof  on your house? Well, it is not that difficult, we will explain  in the following paragraph.

Cedar shingles that are available on the market are either CCA (chromated copper arsenate) treated or they are not CCA treated. CCA is a kind of preservative that helps in driving insects away from your cedar roof. Therefore, CCA cedar can enhance the life of your cedar roof. You can also get Cedar shingles that are fire treated, but they will have to be specially ordered by your roofer. Cedar shingles that are CCA treated will normally cost about 16-20 percent more than the non CCA cedar. The majority of cedar roofs are not treated using CCA.

Cedar shingles are resistant to the elements and this is the primary reason why they are widely used across varied climatic conditions. These cedar shingles are available in various qualities including white cedar and red cedar. The red cedar shingles have tight grained particles that are saturated with tannic acids which is a natural preservative. These cedar shingles are also dipped in creosote for preventing corrosion and are highly preferred by homeowners as they add to the looks of one’s property.

Long Term Investment

Using cedar roof shingles is definitely a good investment decision as this roofing lasts for about thirty to seventy years. The actual longevity of the cedar shingles will depend on various factors, including the roof slope, climate and the roof preservation methods  used by the homeowners.

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Generally, cedar shingles used in roofs with steep slopes are less prone to damage as the slope prevents any accumulation of snow or rain thereby lowering any chances of damage to the wood. Flat or a roof with less slope will allow elements to build up and can cause added weight on the roof structure. Excessive weight is not ideal for the roof structure and can cause numerous problems including the need for replacing the cedar shingles within few years of installation.

After the installation of your cedar shingles, your house roof will have a more natural covering, which will last for decades, because wood can withstand various types of elements and other natural occurrences, and cedar shingles will need minimal maintenance as the years go by. With age, they will develop a more rustic look which will add a touch of class to any home.

The Benefits of Using Cedar Shingles for your roofing

Due to the inherent property of cedar wood, cedar shingles are a desired addition to any home, for the folowing reasons. First, they are totally odor free. They can easily absorb moisture due to their porous ability and can also absorb a significant amount of noise as well. This quality makes cedar wood perfect for the insulation of your home and cedar shingles perfect for the roof structure.

cedar shinglesThe smell of cedar wood can drive insects such as moths, away from roofs made using cedar shingles. This helps in extending the life of the cedar roofs by decades. Cedar shingles contribute to much better circulation of air within the house. They help the house to breathe naturally without trapping the moisture inside the house. Therefore, you can maintain the structure of your house in much better shape for a long time. Cedar shingles are strong and durable. They have a much higher resistance to bugs and cedar shingle roofs can easily withstand the elements.

The color of cedar shingles matures with the passing years and this makes them even more beautiful and desirable. With a cedar roof, you can easily add a distinct charm to your house. You can get cedar from many suppliers or lumber yards and you don’t need too much expertise or tools for installation. Depending upon their specifications, cedar roofs can be a good green roofing option for you. Installing roofs using Cedar Shingles UK can cut down your cooling and heating bills due to the enhanced insulation of your house against the cold weather.

Roofs made using cedar shingles can last for 40-70 years with the proper maintenance. Therefore, you can easily minimize your repair and installation costs for decades. However, you will have to take the usual maintenance precautions to keep your cedar roof in excellent condition. For instance, if you are living in  areas with a humid climate, roofs should be treated with fungicides after one year of use. This helps in preventing the growth of fungus and mildew. If you are living in a fire-prone area, you can add fire-retardant properties to your cedar roof to extend its life.

Cedar Shingles Installed the Professional Way

The decision to install cedar wooden roofs is done in a meticulous way by professionals who have expertise in the installation of roofs made from cedar shingles. These professionals will also advice you on ways to maintain the overall look and quality of your cedar shingle roof.

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If you are considering remodeling the outside of your home, cedar shingles is a great choice. These shingles are like no other, as cedar has characteristics which many other woods do not have. Western Red Cedar carries a rustic color which may turn silver to the eye once it ages.  Either way, cedar looks beautiful on any building or home. It is used by most roofers in Canada, and is very popular in the United States as well as here in the UK. Some benefits of using cedar shingles:

  1. Great Insulation
  2. Repels Bugs
  3. Beautiful
  4. Durable
  5. Long Lasting

 Lower Energy Bills

Cedar Shingles UKOwning a home can mean high heating costs, unless it is built efficiently with materials such as cedar. A timber such as cedar will insulate the home, keep out the cold, and making energy bills far cheaper. By using cedar on the sides and roofing of the home, your bills will decrease dramatically. Placing cedar shingles on your roof, will not only make your home look good, but you will also be saving money.  Cedar shingles are not very expensive, and you will make your money back on them through lowe heating costs.

Repels Bugs

Never worry about bugs getting into your home again. Nobody likes bugs, and for the ones which somehow make their way into your home, it can be an anxious time for some. However, by installing cedar on your house, you don’t have to worry about bugs making their way into your home.  Many roofs are damaged due to bugs eating away at the materials, however with cedar shingles on the roof and sides of a building, bugs will be repelled keeping your home safe from these unwanted nuisances.

Cedar Shingles uk

Durability

If you are looking to change your roof, chances are it’s not made with cedar shingles. This is because cedar shingles are very durable, and can withstand most any weather. If you’re having a heavy downpour your shingles will happily see you through it. Cedar is so durable, it will prevail through snow, hail, heat and other conditions which are known to damage roofs.  Although cedar is more of a soft wood, it is very durable and can withstand just about anything which it is put up against. A roof covered in cedar can last up to forty years and more, so it is worth every penny spent on it.

Cedar is a wood which does not easily deteriorate, and will hold on for a very long time.  If you don’t plan on changing your roofing for a while, cedar shingles are a great choice for roofing.

Cedar Shingles Leads to Cheaper Insurance

Because the condition of a home is one of the leading factors in determining the cost of home insurance,  having cedar shingles on your home can decrease insurance costs.  As stated above, shingles are durable against hail storms, but even more-  they have been recognized in some states in the US as being able to repel hail during some of the heaviest hail storms.

After being put through an “impact” test, which is a test given to determine what a material can withstand. This test determines if the shingles can  qualify for UL-2218 Class 3 & 4 impact resistance ratings. As a result, cedar shingles passed, giving insured individuals up to a class 4 impact discount, which meant because of the durable qualities, and less chance of damage, insurance prices were decreased.  Though insurance companies vary, and whether they currently have such discounts  may be questionable, this test showed just how durable cedar shingles are.

Adding Color to Your Shingles

While cedar can range in color from a yellowish to a reddish brown, most will have a more rustic appearance.  However, if you would like your shingles a bit darker, using clear stains will accomplish this. There are stains which are specially made for the wood, to keep in line with its natural color and beauty. Cedar can be dense, which makes it difficult for normal wood stains to penetrate through. However the specially made stains will get around this. Stains are available in clear, semi transparent, semi solid and solid colors. This is by far the best way to paint and treat shingles.

While clear stain is nothing more than  making the shingles look wet, the semi transparent stain adds a hint of color while still giving off a clear appearance.  For those looking for a bit of actual color, the semi color stain, which is a step above the semi transparent, provides natural and more subtle tones. Even though cedar looks great naturally, some individuals prefer color. For this, solid color stain is available.

Cedar Shingles UK – The Best Option for Shingles

Cedar Shingles are a great choice, if you are looking to save money on your heating bills, beautify your home, or keep unwanted pest out.  As one of the most durable woods available, cedar provides customers with a quality wood that lasts for years.  With all of it’s benefits, cedar will be even more popular in years to come.

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