Rockville Roofing: Article About Advantages and Disadvantages Of Shake Shingles
The term wood shingles refers to a specific type of shingle made from wood. Unlike shake shingles, manufacturers of wood shingles use machines to saw and cut the shingles into the sizes needed.
Rockville MD roofers FAQ: What are recycled shake shingles?One of the newest types of shingles available to homeowners is a recycled shake shingle. Though this shingle looks similar to traditional shake shingles, it features a construction made primarily from recycled materials. Manufacturers break down rubber from old tires and other products and use molds or hand cutting methods to shape the material into the shingles.
When most people think of Cape Code style homes and cottages, they think of shake shingles. Also known as wood shake or cedar shake, manufacturers typically make the material from larger pieces of cedar that they cut into thinner sheets and later slice into the shapes needed. Shake shingles originally came from wood logs that companies cut by hand, which gave the edges a slightly rough appearance. Many manufacturers still use saws and cut the shingles by hand, but other companies use machines and later add detailing to create the handmade look. Rockville roofing companies know that, while this material has a nice look, it also comes with some potential issues. Contractors may walk homeowners through the pros and cons of this material.
The first thing homeowners should know is that cedar shake is one of the few environmentally friendly building materials used today. Companies that make the shingles by hand use less electricity. Many manufacturers use sustainable harvesting practices, which means that they only cull the wood from areas that have not been heavily forested and where new trees are planted following a harvest.
Shake is a good choice for those who like changing the look of their homes every few years. A fresh coat of paint can restore the wood and make it look beautiful again.
The roofers from Seneca Creek Home Improvement of Rockville MD would be happy to answer any question you have about gutters or doors.
Homeowners should keep in mind, however, that wood will require more maintenance and that they'll need to hire someone to paint the shingles when the roof develops a faded look.
Other benefits of shake include its durability and resistance to environmental conditions. Though the wood will require some regular maintenance, it can last for 30 years or longer. Proper maintenance will also prevent mold or mildew from affecting the wood.
While cedar shake does come with some disadvantages, it is generally stronger and more durable than wood shingles. Traditional wood shingles develop cracks and holes from exposure to rain and wind, but cedar shake resists many of those same problems.
Those looking at shake shingles should check local building codes. As the material isn't resistant to fires, some cities and states will only let homeowners use cedar shake as a decorative element on the walls of their homes and not as a roofing material. Other disadvantages include the high cost of the shingles and the fact that it's harder to install than other materials. Licensed contractors can install a new roof made from cedar shake or use those shingles in a decorative way.
