Installing or Replacing Wood Shake or Composite Roofing

Wood shake and composite roofing are popular choices among homeowners for their natural beauty and durability. Both options offer unique benefits and can enhance the overall appearance of your home. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the differences between wood shake and composite roofing, their benefits, and the steps involved in installing or replacing these roofing materials.

Benefits of Wood Shake Roofing

1. Natural Aesthetic: Wood shake roofing provides a rustic, natural look that enhances the charm of any home. The varying textures and colors of the wood create a unique, visually appealing roof.
2. Durability: When properly maintained, wood shake roofs can last 30-40 years. They are resistant to wind and impact, making them a sturdy choice for many climates.
3. Insulation: Wood has natural insulating properties, which can help regulate your home’s temperature, reducing heating and cooling costs.
4. Eco-Friendly: Wood shakes are biodegradable and can be recycled at the end of their lifespan, making them an environmentally friendly option.

Benefits of Composite Roofing

1. Versatility: Composite roofing materials can mimic the appearance of wood shakes, slate, or clay tiles, offering a wide range of aesthetic options.
2. Durability: Composite roofs are designed to withstand harsh weather conditions, including heavy rain, snow, and high winds. They are also resistant to mold, mildew, and pests.
3. Low Maintenance: Unlike wood shakes, composite roofs require minimal maintenance. They do not warp, crack, or split over time.
4. Long Lifespan: Composite roofing can last 40-50 years or more with proper installation and care, making it a cost-effective long-term investment.

Steps to Install or Replace Wood Shake Roofing

1. Preparation and Safety: Ensure you have the necessary safety gear, including gloves, safety glasses, and a harness if working on a steep roof. Check the weather forecast and choose a dry day for the installation.

2. Remove the Old Roof: If you’re replacing an old roof, start by removing the existing roofing material. Use a roofing shovel or pry bar to lift the shingles and underlayment. Dispose of the old materials responsibly.

3. Inspect and Repair the Roof Deck: Check the roof deck for any damage or rot. Replace any compromised sections with new plywood or OSB (oriented strand board). Ensure the deck is clean and free of debris.

4. Install the Underlayment: Lay a waterproof underlayment over the roof deck to provide an extra layer of protection against moisture. Roll out the underlayment horizontally, starting from the bottom edge of the roof and overlapping each row by a few inches. Secure it with roofing nails or staples.

5. Install the Starter Course: Begin at the eave (bottom edge) of the roof by installing a starter course of wood shakes. Lay the shakes with a slight gap between them to allow for expansion and contraction. Secure each shake with two corrosion-resistant nails.

6. Lay the Field Shakes:

   • Begin at the bottom edge of the roof, just above the starter course.
   • Lay each shake with a 3/8 to 1/2-inch gap between them, ensuring they overlap the row below by at least 1.5 inches.
   • Use two nails per shake, placing them about 1 inch from the edges and 2 inches above the exposure line.
   • Continue laying the shakes in rows, working your way up the roof and maintaining consistent overlap and alignment.

7. Install Ridge and Hip Shakes:

   • For ridges and hips, use specially cut ridge and hip shakes.
   • Lay them over the top of the roof, overlapping each other to ensure watertight coverage.
   • Secure each ridge or hip shake with nails or screws, and use a compatible roofing adhesive or mortar to ensure a secure fit.

8. Secure Flashing: Install metal flashing around chimneys, vents, skylights, and valleys to prevent water infiltration. Ensure the flashing is properly integrated with the shakes to maintain a watertight seal.

9. Inspect the Finished Roof: Once the installation is complete, inspect the roof for any loose shakes, gaps, or imperfections. Ensure that all seams and edges are properly sealed to prevent leaks.

Steps to Install or Replace Composite Roofing

1. Preparation and Safety: As with wood shake roofing, ensure you have the necessary safety gear and choose a dry day for the installation.

2. Remove the Old Roof: Remove the existing roofing material and dispose of it responsibly. Inspect the roof deck for any damage or rot and replace as needed.

3. Install the Underlayment: Apply a waterproof underlayment over the roof deck. Roll it out horizontally, starting from the bottom edge of the roof and overlapping each row by a few inches. Secure it with roofing nails or staples.

4. Install the Starter Course: Begin at the eave of the roof by installing a starter course of composite shingles or tiles. Secure each piece with nails or screws according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

5. Lay the Field Shingles or Tiles:

   • Start at the bottom edge of the roof, just above the starter course.
   • Lay each shingle or tile with the recommended overlap and secure it with nails or screws.
   • Continue laying the shingles or tiles in rows, working your way up the roof and maintaining consistent overlap and alignment.

6. Install Ridge and Hip Shingles or Tiles:

   • For ridges and hips, use specially designed ridge and hip shingles or tiles.
   • Lay them over the top of the roof, overlapping each other to ensure watertight coverage.
   • Secure each piece with nails or screws, and use a compatible roofing adhesive or mortar if recommended by the manufacturer.

7. Secure Flashing: Install metal flashing around chimneys, vents, skylights, and valleys. Ensure the flashing is properly integrated with the shingles or tiles to maintain a watertight seal.

8. Inspect the Finished Roof: Once the installation is complete, inspect the roof for any loose shingles or tiles, gaps, or imperfections. Ensure that all seams and edges are properly sealed to prevent leaks.

Maintenance Tips for Wood Shake and Composite Roofing

• Regular Inspections: Inspect your roof at least twice a year for any signs of damage, loose shingles or tiles, or debris.
• Clean the Roof: Remove leaves, branches, and other debris from the roof surface and gutters to prevent water buildup.
• Address Issues Promptly: Fix any loose shakes, shingles, tiles, or damaged flashing immediately to prevent more extensive damage.
• Avoid Walking on the Roof: Minimize walking on the roof to prevent damage. If you need to access the roof, use a ladder and walkboards to distribute your weight evenly.

When to Call a Professional

While installing or replacing wood shake or composite roofing can be a DIY project for experienced homeowners, certain situations may require professional assistance:

• Complex Roof Design: If your roof has multiple angles, valleys, or penetrations, a professional roofer can ensure proper installation and sealing.
• Structural Concerns: If the roof deck has extensive damage or if you’re unsure about the structural integrity, it’s best to have a professional assess and repair it.
• Safety Concerns: If you’re uncomfortable working at heights or lack the necessary safety equipment, hiring a professional ensures your safety and the quality of the installation.

Conclusion

Wood shake and composite roofing are excellent choices for homeowners seeking a durable, attractive, and long-lasting roofing solution. Whether you’re installing a new roof or replacing an old one, following the steps outlined in this guide will help ensure a successful project. Remember to perform regular maintenance to keep your roof in top condition and consider hiring a professional for complex installations or repairs. With proper care, your wood shake or composite roof can provide reliable protection and enhance the aesthetic appeal of your home for many years.