Key Takeaways
- Wood shake roofs can last 20 to 40 years—if you treat them right.
- Curling, cracking, missing shakes, or leaks? Your roof’s throwing red flags—ignore them, and repairs get pricey fast.
- Moss, mold, and algae speed up roof decay. The longer they sit, the worse it gets.
- At 25+ years, replacing your wood shake roof may save you more in the long run.
- At Apex, we make roof care simple. From inspections to replacements, we handle the hard part—so you don’t have to.
Is Your Wood Shake Roof Trying to Tell You Something?
Your wood shake roof has been standing strong for years—but is it starting to whisper (or scream) for help? If it’s curling, cracking, or missing a few pieces, it isn’t just an aesthetic issue. It’s your home’s way of waving a red flag before things get expensive.
Let’s break down what to watch for before your roof stages a full-on rebellion.
| 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! |
How Long Should Your Wood Shake Roof Last?
| Factor | Impact on Lifespan |
| Regular maintenance | Adds 10+ years to its life. |
| Severe weather | Can shave off 5-10 years—hail, storms, and extreme temperature don’t play nice. |
| Poor ventilation | Traps moisture, leads to premature rot and decay. |
| Skipping repairs | That tiny crack? It’ll turn into a big, expensive problem. |
How to Keep Your Roof Going Strong
- Inspect it twice a year (spring and fall).
- Keep it clean. Leaves and debris trap moisture—a fast pass to roof rot.
- Apply a wood preservative.
- Ventilation matters. Without it, your roof is basically aging in fast-forward.
Fact Check: A well-maintained wood shake roof can last about 20 to 40 years. If your roof is creeping past 25 years and looking rough, it’s time to start thinking about a replacement.
Top Signs Your Wood Shake Roof Needs Attention
1. Curling or Warped Shakes
- Why it happens: Wood isn’t a fan of extreme weather swings. Hot, cold, wet, dry—it expands, contracts, and before you know it, the shakes start curling like potato chips.
- Why it’s a problem: Curled shakes expose the underlayment. That’s basically an open invitation for water to sneak in and cause leaks.
- What to do: If your shakes are doing the wave, it’s time to call in a pro. A quick inspection will tell you whether it’s a small fix or a bigger issue waiting to happen.
2. Splitting & Cracking
- Why it happens: Sun, rain, repeat. Over time, UV rays and moisture cycles turn wood shakes dry and brittle, making them crack.
- Why it’s a problem: Cracks let water in, which leads to leaks and potential mold takeover.
- What to do: Swap out cracked shakes ASAP before they turn a small fix into a full-blown roofing disaster.
3. Moss, Mold, or Algae Growth
- Why it happens: Damp, shaded areas are perfect conditions for moss, mold, and algae to throw a party—and they never leave.
- Why it’s a problem: These uninvited guests trap moisture, speed up wood rot, and can turn your roof into a rotting, slimy mess.
- What to do: Gently scrub moss away with a soft brush and a mild water-and-vinegar mix. For long-term prevention, improve ventilation and trim overhanging branches.
4. Loose, Missing, or Rotting Shakes
- Why it happens: Strong winds, storms, and old age can make shakes loosen, go missing or start rotting.
- Why it’s a problem: Missing shakes sneaks water in, leading to roof deck damage.
- What to do: If more than 20% of your shakes have called it quits, it’s time to stop patching and start thinking about replacement. Trust us—you’ll thank us in the long run.
5. Leaks in the Attic or Ceiling Stains
- Why it happens: Missing or damaged shakes leave gaps, and water loves an easy way in.
- Why it’s a problem: That innocent-looking stain? It’s your warning sign. Water damage weakens structural supports, invites mold, and can turn a small fix into a costly disaster.
- What to do: Don’t wait until your ceiling sags. If you see stains or feel a drip, schedule an inspection ASAP.
Should You Repair or Replace Your Wood Shake Roof?
A Repair May Be Enough If:
- The damage is minor. A few curls or cracks? No big deal.
- Most shakes are holding strong. Just a little touch-up needed.
- Your roof is under 20 years old. It’s got life left—don’t write it off yet.
Replacement Is the Better Option If:
- Your roof’s missing more shakes than it has. Gaps mean big trouble.
- Repairs are becoming a monthly routine. If you’re constantly fixing, it’s time to rethink.
- It’s pushing past 25 years. At that age, it’s not “character”—it’s a liability.
Pro Tip: If repair costs are stacking up, replacing your roof may save you money in the long run. (And save you from the stress of endless patch jobs.)
When Your Roof Speaks, Listen—And Act Fast
Your wood shake roof is working hard to protect your home. But like anything else, it needs a little TLC. Ignore the warning signs, and you can be signing up for big-time repairs.
The fix? Stay ahead of trouble. Catching minor issues early keeps your roof in top shape and your wallet happy. A quick inspection today can save you from a stressful, budget-busting nightmare down the road.
The Apex Approach: How We Help
At Apex, we make roof care easy, stress-free, and seamless. No guesswork—just solid solutions that keep your home protected.
Here’s why homeowners choose us:
- Free, No-Obligation Roof Inspections
- Expert Repairs & Replacements
- Insurance Assistance
“I worked with Jacob of Apex Roofing, and I could not have had a better experience. Our roof was destroyed in last year’s hail storm, and the insurance company was fighting us on repair vs. replacement. Jacob did all the negotiating with the insurance company and got us a new tile roof. Not only did he do all the work, but he saved us 1000’s of dollars as well. I couldn’t be happier with the work they did and with the way Jacob handles our contract.” – Matt S.
Dealing with claims? We’ll handle the red tape so you don’t have to. Call us today for a free inspection!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What are common signs that my wood shake roof needs attention?
If your shakes are curling, cracking, or straight-up missing, your roof is crying for help. Other red flags? Moss taking over, attic leaks, or ceiling stains—all signs that water is sneaking in where it shouldn’t.
How often should I inspect my wood shake roof?
Twice a year is the sweet spot, ideally in spring and fall. If a major storm rolls through, don’t wait—inspect ASAP. The sooner you spot damage, the better your chances of stopping leaks and costly fixes before they start.
What should I do if I notice leaks or water stains inside my home?
Don’t ignore it! If you see water spots or feel a drip, it means your shakes aren’t doing their job anymore. Call in a pro immediately to find the source before you’re dealing with mold, rot, or a full-blown disaster.
When should I consider replacing my wood shake roof instead of repairing it?
If your roof needs more patches than a biker jacket, it may be time to say goodbye. Consider replacing if:
- More than 20% of shakes are missing, cracked, or rotting.
- Repairs are adding up like a bad subscription service.
- Your roof is over 25 years old and looking rough.
- Leaks keep coming back no matter how many times you fix them.
Thinking about a new roof? Let us handle it with expert craftsmanship and zero guesswork. Get a free inspection today!
Are moss and algae growth harmful to my roof?
Absolutely. Moss and algae trap moisture, speed up rot, and wreck your shakes from the inside out. The fix? A little TLC: gently scrub them away with a soft brush and a mild water-and-vinegar mix. And if shade is the culprit, improving ventilation and trimming overhanging branches can help.