If you’re thinking about replacing your roof, consider installing a wood roof. Wooden roofs have an elegant look that never goes out of style. Because it’s not a common choice for roofing material, it also serves as a bold statement.
Aside from being good-looking, wood roofs are also durable, eco-friendly, and energy efficient. Because it lasts such a long time, a wood roof is a good investment. Curious about the pros and cons of having a wooden roof? Read on for more.
Advantages of wooden roofs
- Durability
If properly installed and maintained, wooden roofs can last upwards of 50 years. Compared with asphalt shingles, which typically have a lifespan of about 20 years, wood roofs are a better investment.
- Aesthetics
Wood roofs have a sophisticated look with a somewhat rustic feel. The gorgeous natural tones of wood shingles or shakes are unparalleled in their natural beauty.
Though wooden roofs look great when first installed, age only serves to highlight their lovely appearance. Unlike most other roofing materials, wood actually ages beautifully instead of looking duller.
- Uniqueness
Unlike asphalt shingles, metal, and even slate, wood roofs are quite an uncommon choice for roofing material. Because of the unique grain and pattern of each wood shake or shingle, no two wooden roofs are ever the same.
- Hassle-free maintenance
Should wooden shingles fall off or become loose, they are easy to replace.
- Energy efficiency
Wooden roofs provide more natural insulation than other roofing materials. This type of roof will significantly lower your cooling and heating bills.
- Sustainability
Sustainably sourced wood shakes or shingles have a much lower environmental impact than roofing materials made from petroleum products or metals. To ensure that your wooden roof is environmentally friendly, work with professional roofers who use FSC-certified wood roofing materials.
Disadvantages of wooden roofs
Though wooden roofs are lovely and long-lasting, there are several drawbacks to using this type of roofing material.
- Insects
Anything made from wood will attract insects that want to eat it or live in it. Depending on your location, your wooden roof may be susceptible to termites, wood borers, and other insects.
- Moss
If your wooden roof is not treated properly, moisture and cold weather can lead to algae and moss growth. Algae and moss can create gaps in the wood shingles. These gaps can lead to leaks, which may cause extensive water damage in your roof as well as the interior of your home.
- Cost
The final cost will depend on the size of your roof and the quality of the materials, but, in general, wood shakes are the most expensive option if you want to shingle your roof. The cost of wood shingles is sometimes more than double the cost of asphalt shingles.
- Susceptibility to moisture
Even if a wooden roof is stained and painted, moisture can still seep into the material, causing the shingles to swell or warp. This will lead to leaks, water damage, and rot, and will severely shorten the lifespan of your roof.
