Fieldnotes: Wood Roofing
Naturally Beautiful Roofing Material
Wood roofs are some of the most beautiful roofing choices for homes and are an essential architectural detail of many American homes. Wood roofs can last over one hundred years with regular maintenance. When repairing a wood roof, working with a contractor with experience in wood shingles can identify the different types of material used historically.
Common Problems
Why do wood roofs fail?
Wood roofs fail because of a lack of care and maintenance. Typically wood roofs fail for three flashing failures, moss build-up, and deteriorated shingles.
Flashing Failure: Original flashing around plumbing penetration, valleys, and chimneys may be rusted or corroded. This can lead to homes in highly vulnerable areas.
Moss Buil-Up: It can be charming, but moss and lichen buildings hold moisture on the roof, which can cause roofing shingle to rot and decay.
Deteriorated Shingles: Deteriorated shingles from rot, UV rays, hail, and wind can fall off or be displaced, allowing water to infiltrate the home and cause additional damage to framing and interior finishes.
“The roofer must be knowledgeable about traditional craft practices.”
Maintenance
How do I maintain my wood roof?
First, inspect the roof regularly from inside the attic, looking for signs of moisture (leaks and condensation). Second, trim back tree limbs to prevent contact with tiles. Finally, clean and remove all debris from the roof regularly. Do not allow leaves, branches, and trash to accumulate on the roof.
Repair
How do I repair my wood roof?
Wood roof repairs should be completed by a contractor that specializes in wood roofing:
A contractor must take special precautions not to cause additional damage.
All structural repairs must be complete before missing or broken tiles are repaired.
The roofing professional should replace broken tiles with salvaged or replica tiles.
Special attention should be made to repair and service metal flashing.
Replacement
When should I replace my tile roof?
Wood roofs should be replaced when the repair of flashing, framing, or deteriorated shingles will exceed 50% of the overall surface area. If replacement tile is required for the project, it should match the original shingle as closely as possible since an original wood roof is likely to be one of the building's most significant features. In addition, natural wood roofs have the inherent variations, texture, and color that is so important in defining the character of a wood roof. Thus, only traditionally shaped shingles are appropriate for replacing a historic wood roof.
What does a new tile roof cost?
The cost of a new tile roof can easily exceed $50,000 on a typical home.
Old Home Rescue is Oklahoma's only general contractor that specializes in traditional and historic exteriors. Please contact us to begin restoring and remodeling your home's unique exterior character.