Top Rated Wood Roofing Contractor in Austin, Texas

Wood Roof Installation in Austin, Texas

Let’s Learn About Wood Roofs

There are many viable options for roofing material choices in the modern construction environment. Depending on taste, price, availability, and your typical weather conditions, you can choose asphalt shingles, metal variations, even clay, or tile slate. So with all of those other options on the market, why would you go with wood as your choice? What is it about wood that makes it a premier choice for homeowners all over the country?

There are many reasons homeowners prefer wood to other formats of roof covering. Let’s take a few minutes to review these advantages so you will be informed and comfortable when it’s time to make the decision of what type of roof you will install on your home.

Cedar Wood Roof Options

Wood roofs are almost always made from cedar. Cedar has amazing qualities that make it perfect for roofing, which we will get to in a moment.

There are two variations of wood styles -- shingles and shakes. Shingles are machine-milled, at a factory. They are uniform in appearance, shape, size and even weight. They give your home a smooth, uniform roof that still retains that pleasing wood style that so many homeowners prefer.

Shakes, on the other hand, are hand-split. Each one is slightly different, and give your roof a rustic, handmade appearance, making it uniquely yours. Shakes need to be properly installed due to their irregular shapes and sizes, but done correctly they provide a uniquely styled roof that will be safe and durable for years to come.

What are the Advantages of Wood Roofs in Austin, TX?

First, wood roofs are a relatively light option, especially in comparison to heavier title roofs, and even asphalt roofs. Most homes can easily support a wood roof, and don’t need to be reinforced to support the heavier materials.

Second, for a long time people were hesitant about wood shingles due to concerns about fire hazards. Modern wood shingles, however, are treated with fire retardant, making them safe, and eliminating concern that they are less desirable than other, more naturally flame resistant options, such as asphalt, metal, clay, or tile.

Third, cedar roofs have a long and reliable lifetime. Depending on your local weather conditions, and the quality of your shingles or shakes, you can expect to get up to 25 or even 30 years from your cedar roof.

Wood roofs are also excellent at moisture resistance, meaning they fight mold and water issues. Cedar is one of the best coverings for water resistance.

Wood roofs are also highly desirable for energy efficiency. They’re made from natural, biological materials, not asphalt or metal. They allow energy transfer between the outside and your home, allowing your home to breathe and circulate air, but also giving good insulation. Ask any local installer or roofing company that works with wood, they’ll be able to give you good estimates on what a wood covering should offer you for energy conservation in your home.

Are There Downsides to Wood Roofs in Austin, TX?

As with all materials, there are upsides and downsides when you choose a new roof. Let’s look at the most common concerns people have about wood roofs.

Since wood roofs are a biological material -- wood -- they do require upkeep and maintenance. They should be regularly treated with fungicide, flame retardants, and preservatives. If they aren’t properly maintained, even good cedar roofs can be attacked by fungus, insects, and mildew, which can lead to cracking and warping. The maintenance isn’t extensive, but wood roofs do need some regular care to keep them healthy and long-lasting.

Cedar shingles and shakes need air and sun to stay dry and high-performing. Which means you need to clear debris, moss, fungus, leaves and and other elements which can allow moisture to collect, and keep the sun from drying the wood after rains.

Choosing a Wood Roof in Austin, TX

As with all roofs, there are many considerations that go into choosing your materials, be it asphalt, slate, metal, clay, or wood. For those who appreciate the beauty and originality of a well-installed wood roof, there are many advantages that far outweigh the required maintenance a wood roof needs. Weather conditions where you live go a long way to determining the durability of your roof, but ultimately, the loveliness of wood may be well worth other considerations for many homeowners.



Call us at any time. We love to talk about the in’s and out’s of roofing choices, and would be very happy to go over more details of choosing a wood roof in central Austin!