Key Takeaways

Wood shake roofs bring natural charm to your home but need regular care to prevent issues like cracking, rot, and mold.
Spotting small problems like curled or cracked shakes early can save you thousands in repairs—and a lot of headaches.
Repair or replace? It all depends on your roof’s age, condition, and repair history.
At Apex, we make wood shake roof care stress-free, keeping your roof gorgeous, strong, and built to last.

Caring for the Charm of Wood Shake Roofs

Wood shake roofs are the crowned jewel of rustic home design—stunning, unique, and full of character. But let’s be honest: they demand a little extra TLC compared to other roofing materials.

Understanding their unique quirks and repair needs can save you from costly fixes and future headaches.

After all, protecting your investment shouldn’t feel like pulling teeth—it should feel like a smart, rewarding move for your home.

Apex Restoration & Roofing: Your Roofing Specialists in Colorado

Located in Englewood, Colorado, Apex Restoration & Roofing offers expert residential and commercial roofing services. With over 27 years of experience, we specialize in roof replacements, repairs, and storm damage restoration, using only the highest quality materials. Our A+ BBB rating and a 5-star rating on Google from satisfied customers ensure your project meets the highest standards of quality and satisfaction.

See the Apex difference today!

Wood Shake Roofs: An Overview

Wood shake roofs are strong, natural, and stylish. Hand-split from cedar, redwood, or pine, they bring a rustic charm and top-tier insulation that synthetic materials can’t compete with.

But let’s not sugarcoat it—being all-natural means wood shakes can fall prey to rot, insects, and weather damage.

The good news? With regular maintenance, these beauties can hold their own for up to 30 to 40 years, keeping your home protected and Pinterest-worthy for decades.

Why Choose Wood Shake Roofs?

Keeps your home cool in summer and cozy in winter.
Boosts curb appeal like no other material.
With proper care, can outlast asphalt roofs by years.

UV rays are relentless—drying and cracking your wood shakes over time.

Common Problems with Wood Shake Roofs & How to Spot Them

1. Weather-Related Drama

Rain loves to sneak into cracks, which swell and weaken the wood.
UV rays dry, crack, and warp your shakes with their relentless energy.
Windstorms can turn shakes into confetti if they’re not properly secured.

2. Environmental Intrusions

High humidity is mold and mildew’s favorite playground, leading to rot.
Fallen leaves and tree debris trap moisture, fast-tracking decay.

3. Tell-Tale Signs of Trouble

Shakes curling like an old paperback book.
Discoloration that screams “too much moisture.”
Exposed felt peeking through damaged shakes (the roofing equivalent of frayed jeans).

Pro Tip: Got a storm? Grab a coffee and a pair of binoculars. Inspect your roof for cracks or missing shakes right after. Fixing small issues early means dodging the hefty repair bill later.

A clean roof and clear gutters are your first line of defense.

Prolonging the Life of Your Wood Shake Roof

1. Give It the Spa Treatment

Every few years, treat your shakes with high-quality wood preservatives. This keeps water, fungi, and pesky insects at bay. Bonus? It’ll make your roof look good as new.

2. Keep It Debris-Free

Leaves, twigs, and gunk are the sworn enemies of wood shakes. Clear them off with a soft broom (or, better yet, buy gutter guards). Clean gutters mean happy roofs.

3. Let It Breathe

A stuffy attic can warp your wood shakes faster than you can say “repair bill.” Make sure there’s good airflow to keep things cool and dry.

4. Keep an Eye Out

Twice a year—or after a rough storm—take a stroll around your home and inspect your roof. Look for cracks, curling, or discoloration. Spotting small issues early saves big bucks later.

Pro Tip: Want to stay ahead of the game? Snap some photos of your roof during inspections. It’s the easiest way to track changes over time!

Small repairs, big results—keep your roof in top condition for $300–$1,500.

Repair or Replace? Making the Right Choice

When to Repair:

The damage is minor, like a few cracked shakes or a small leak.
Your roof is still in its prime (under 15 years old).
The structure beneath is solid and problem-free.

When to Replace:

Rot and damage have taken over like an uninvited houseguest.
Your shakes are pushing 30 and showing their age.
Repairs are becoming a monthly budget line—and it’s no longer worth it.

Cost of Repairing Wood Shake Roofs

Minor Repairs

$300–$1,500 to replace a small section of shakes.
Perfect for fixing those “oops” moments like cracked or missing pieces.

Moderate Repairs

$1,500–$5,000 for water damage or multiple problem areas.
These are mid-level tune-ups to keep things running smoothly.

Full Replacement Costs

$6-$8 per sq ft; can run $20,000 or more depending on the size of your roof.
A bigger investment upfront, but it’s like hitting the reset button on your roof’s lifespan.

Curious what drives replacement costs? Check out “What Factors Influence the Cost of a Roof Replacement” for a detailed breakdown!

The Apex Repair Process: How We Restore Wood Shake Roofs

1. Thorough Inspection

We start with a thorough inspection of your roof’s condition, pinpointing every crack, curl, or weak spot—and the “why” behind them.

2. Strategic Repairs

This is where we shine. From replacing damaged shakes to sealing and waterproofing, every fix is handled with precision. Got exposed felt? We’ll secure it with shims to keep your roof strong and sturdy for years to come.

3. Final Touches

This is the finishing flourish. We clear away debris, treat the wood, and leave your roof looking fresh and ready to weather whatever comes its way.

4. Your Satisfaction, Guaranteed

We don’t just pack up and go. Before we call it a day, we’ll walk you through the results, making sure you’re thrilled with the work. Your roof isn’t just a project—it’s our promise.

Protecting Your Investment, One Shake at a Time

Your wood shake roof is a statement, a protector, and an investment in your home’s charm. Like any masterpiece, it deserves care and attention. With regular maintenance and timely repairs, you can keep it looking stunning and working hard for decades.

The key? Addressing issues early and teaming up with pros who know their way around wood shakes.

With Apex, your roof is in the hands of experienced professionals.

At Apex, we know wood shake roofs like the back of our hand. Don’t let a tiny crack turn into a costly headache—schedule your free inspection with us today!

“I worked with Robert Lopez. He was always responsive, professional, and followed through on everything he said he would do for us. I would recommend Robert and Apex Roofing to all my friends and family. What a breath of fresh air you don’t get customer service like this anymore!” – Renee A.

We’ll handle the hard work while you sit back and enjoy the peace of mind that comes with knowing your roof is in expert hands.

Together, we’ll restore your wood shake roof to its former glory and make it stronger than ever!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What are the common signs that my wood shake roof needs repair?

Keep an eye out for curling, cracked, or split shakes. Spot discoloration from water or fungi? That’s another sign your roof needs attention. And if you see exposed felt peeking through damaged shakes, don’t wait—fixing these early can save you big time later.

How often should I perform maintenance on my wood shake roof?

Your wood shake roof is a classic car—it needs a tune-up every 2 to 4 years to stay in prime condition. Give it some love with wood preservatives, clear off debris, and keep the attic airflow in check. A little care goes a long way in keeping your roof stunning and strong.

What are the cost considerations for repairing a wood shake roof?

Repair costs can vary, but here’s the rundown:

Minor fixes, like replacing a few shakes, run $300–$1,500.
For mid-level repairs, such as addressing water damage or multiple problem spots, expect $1,500–$5,000.
Need a full roof reset? Replacements cost $6-$8 per sq ft, with most homes totaling $20,000 or more. It’s an investment, but it pays off with peace of mind.

When should I consult a professional for wood shake roof repairs?

If your roof’s looking rough—widespread damage, serious rot, or even structural issues—it’s time to call the pros.
At Apex, we know wood shake roofs like the back of our hand. We’ll handle the hard work, spot hidden issues, and make sure your roof is stronger than ever. Oh, and did we mention free inspections?