Cedar Roofing in Edgewater, MD and Surrounding Areas

Discover The Beauty of Cedar Roof Systems

As a homeowner or business owner, you want a roofing material that not only looks great but also lasts long. Cedar roofs are a popular choice among homeowners and business owners alike, thanks to their high-quality materials, durability, and beauty. If you’re considering a new top roofing material for your property, but you’re not interested in another synthetic roofing material, you’ve come to the right place! 

Cedar roofing company, Thunder Bay Roofing, the leading residential and commercial roofing contractors in Edgewater, is here to share everything you need to know about cedar roofing. Contact us today by calling 410-956-7663 or keep reading to learn more.

What is a Cedar Roof?

A cedar roof is crafted from the natural wood of the cedar tree. Cedar roofs are renowned for their natural beauty and durability, making them a popular choice for residential and commercial properties, especially custom homes.

Why Choose Thunder Bay Roofing

Thunder Bay Roofing, a trusted cedar roofing contractor with 30+ years of collective industry experience, offers top-tier materials and installations tailored to each client’s unique needs. They prioritize customization and quality and their dedication to exceptional customer service includes free consultations and close collaboration throughout the project. 

Plus, they provide worry-free warranties that adhere to installation guidelines, ensuring clients’ peace of mind. Choose Thunder Bay Roofing for their expertise, customized solutions, quality, outstanding service, and reliable warranties.

Benefits of Cedar Roof Systems

Durability

Cedar roofing is naturally resistant to decay and insect damage, making them a durable, long-lasting roofing option. With proper maintenance, cedar roofing can last decades, often 30 years or longer.

Energy Efficiency

Cedar roofing is energy efficient, meaning it can help you save money on energy costs by providing insulation for a building. The thickness of cedar roofing helps to trap air between the cedar roofing shingles and the interior of the building, which can help regulate temperature and reduce both heating costs and cooling costs.

Aesthetics

Cedar roofing materials are known for their natural beauty and can give your house a warmer, more rustic appearance than synthetic roofing materials. They can enhance the curb appeal of your property and add value to your home or business.

Environmentally Friendly

Cedar roofing material is a renewable resource, meaning that it can be harvested and replanted without causing long-term damage to the environment. Additionally, cedar is a natural biodegradable material, so unlike synthetic roofing products, it can break down over time without harming the environment. When a cedar roofing material reaches the end of its life, it can be easily disposed of without causing harm to the environment.

Options for Cedar Roof Systems

Cedar roofing comes in many different styles that can be tailored to your home. Common options for cedar roofing include:

• Cedar Shingles – Cedar wood shingles are sawn on both sides and tapered for a smooth finish, imitating the look of an ax or mullet cut. Cedar roof shingles are often used for steep-sloped roofs and have a classic, timeless look.
• Cedar Shakes – Cedar shakes are split from the log and have a rough, textured finish. They are thicker than shingles and can offer more insulation. Cedar shake roofs are often used in homes with a rustic, natural aesthetic by homeowners who want a more rugged appearance. 
• Cedar Panels – Cedar panels are large, prefabricated sheets of cedar that can be professionally installed quickly and easily. They’re often used for commercial buildings and can provide a sleek, modern look.
• Hand-Split Cedar Shakes – Hand-split cedar shakes are created by splitting the wood by hand, which gives them a rough, textured finish. They’re thicker than machine-made shakes and can offer even more insulation.
• Tapersawn Cedar Shakes – Tapersawn cedar shakes are created by sawing the wood on both sides and then tapering the thickness. They have a smoother finish than hand-split shakes but still offer a natural, rustic look.
• Fancy-Cut Cedar Shingles – Fancy-cut cedar shingles are sawn on both sides and cut into various shapes and patterns, such as diamonds or fish scales. They can be used to create unique, eye-catching designs on a roof.

Types of Cedar Roofing

On top of the types of cedar roofing available, it’s important to know that there’s more than one kind of cedar you can choose from. Options for the type of cedar you can choose from include:

1. Red Cedar (Western Red Cedar)
   • Red cedar is a popular choice for roofing due to its natural resistance to decay and insects. It has a rich, reddish-brown color that weathers beautifully over time. Red cedar shingles or shakes are known for their durability and rustic charm.
2. White Cedar (Eastern White Cedar)
   • White cedar is a lightweight and aromatic wood commonly used for roofing in the northeastern United States and Canada. It’s prized for its natural resistance to decay and its pale, almost white appearance when freshly installed.
3. Yellow Cedar (Alaska Yellow Cedar)
   • Yellow cedar is known for its exceptional strength and resistance to decay. It’s often chosen for roofing in regions with harsh climates, such as Alaska and the Pacific Northwest. Despite the name, it can range in color from yellow to light brown.
4. Port Orford Cedar:
   • Port Orford cedar is valued for its fine grain, durability, and pleasant aroma. It’s a popular choice for roofing in the western United States. It can vary in color from creamy white to pale yellow and has excellent resistance to rot and insects.

Cedar Roof Maintenance

Clean Roof Regularly

Cedar roof systems can accumulate debris such as leaves, twigs, and dirt, which can lead to the growth of algae and moss. To prevent this, it’s best to clean the roof regularly. This can be done using a soft-bristled brush or a low-pressure power washer. Avoid using high-pressure washing, as this can damage the wood.

Repair Damaged Areas

Inspect the roof regularly for signs of damage, such as cracked or missing shakes or shingles. Replace any damaged shakes or shingles as soon as possible to prevent further damage to the roof. If you’re not comfortable making repairs yourself, hire a professional roofer to do the job.

Prevent Damage

Trim overhanging branches to prevent them from rubbing against the roof and damaging the shakes. Avoid walking on the roof, as this can cause damage to the wood. Install gutters and downspouts to prevent water from pooling on the roof and causing damage.

Apply Treatments

Cedar roofs can be treated with oils or sealants to help protect the wood from the elements. These treatments can help to prevent the wood from drying out and cracking, as well as preventing the growth of algae and moss.

Inspect the Attic

Inspect the attic regularly for signs of moisture or water damage. If you notice any signs of damage, such as water stains or mold, address the issue immediately to prevent further damage to the roof.

Frequently Asked Questions