Hicksville Roofing: Article About Protecting Wood Shingles From Moisture
Wood preservative is a water-based or oil-based liquid that restores the natural oils to the fibers of the wood, protects from moisture-related damage and protects from the sun's harmful UV rays. Wood preservative also helps the shingles combat stress from the environment.
Hicksville roofing contractor answers a question: What is the difference between wood shingles and shakes?Wood roofing shingles are manufactured to be uniformly sized and are cut to be smooth on both sides. Wood shakes are manufactured in various, irregular sizes and are cut to be rough on one side and smooth on the other. Both shingles and shakes are manufactured from cedar or spruce lumber.
Do you have wood shingles on your roof? If so, any experienced roofer will tell that it is very important to tackle small issues before they grow into large problems. Because wood roofing shingles are typically manufactured from a natural material like white cedar, red cedar or spruce, they are particularly susceptible to damage caused by moisture. If you neglect the maintenance of your Hicksville roofing material, trapped moisture can begin to start all sorts of nasty problems with your shingles.
The most effective thing you can do to avoid water-related issues from occurring is to keep your roof clear of anything that attracts moisture. When leaves, needles, acorns or other debris sit on your wood shingles for too long, they attract moisture. This moisture will eventually seep into the wood, unless you periodically remove the debris. Use a long-handled broom to sweep off these moisture-carrying culprits. It is also a good idea to keep tree branches trimmed back so they do not hang over your wood shingles. This will cut down on the amount of debris that falls from trees on to your roof. Plus, shade from overhanging tree branches make it more difficult for your roof to dry out completely. Keep in mind that, even if there are no branches hanging over your rooftop, wind can carry plenty of leaves to your roof. This means you need to take a few minutes to sweep your roof at least a couple times each year, regardless of whether or not there are trees overhead.
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Each year, in early spring, walk the perimeter of your house to visually inspect your shingles. This will give you a heads up about any winter-related damage that needs to be repaired. Also, try to get a closer look from up on the roof every three years or so.
Even if you are diligent about sweeping off your roof, moisture can happen. How will you know if it has started affecting your wood shingles? One of the earliest signs of mildew or fungus growth is the appearance of black spots and streaks on your shingles. If you see any black marks forming, it is time to take action. Mix a gallon of hot water with one cup of bleach and one cup of laundry detergent. Spray it on the affected shingles until they are saturated, then scrub the black marks away. After scrubbing, rinse them off with a garden hose. If possible, try to do this on a sunny day so the wet shingles will dry faster.
Every five years or so, apply a fresh coat of wood preservative to your wood shingles. This helps protect the shingles from moisture rot. When you keep your shingles treated with preservatives and you regularly sweep off your roof, you will be putting up your best defenses against moisture-related damage.
