Wood shake roofs in Central Texas, explained

Most wood roofs are Western Red Cedar, with redwood and cypress also used. Shakes are hand split and rugged. Shingles are sawn and smoother. Both come treated or untreated, and both weather to a soft silver gray over time unless stained.

Wood suits cottages, cabins, and rustic or historic homes.

• Moisture Wood absorbs moisture without proper treatment or ventilation. It suits shaded, well ventilated roofs where it can dry out between wettings.
• Upkeep Regular inspections for mold, mildew or rot, periodic treatment to preserve resistance to moisture and insects, and debris cleared so the roof can dry.
• Fire Untreated wood burns, and fire retardant treatments exist. In College Station, materials used for residential re-roofing must carry a minimum Class C fire rating, so ask for the rating of the specific product.
• Weight and soil Wood is a light roofing material. Brazos Valley soils include expansive clay, which swells when it takes on water and shrinks as it dries out. A slab that moves takes the structure with it. A lighter covering asks less of the structure.

Texas does not issue a state license for roofing contractors. The Roofing Contractors Association of Texas runs a voluntary program as a trade association, not a government agency, so ask for the things you can check.

• Wood experience How many wood roofs they have installed, and how they handle ventilation and spacing.
• Treatment Whether the product is treated for fire and moisture, and what upkeep the treatment needs.
• A workmanship warranty in writing The term, what it excludes, and the name of the company that honors it.
• Proof of insurance from the source A certificate of insurance sent to you directly by the agent or carrier, showing general liability and workers compensation.
• What the scope says What comes off, what goes on, how penetrations and flashings are handled, and what happens if the decking underneath is compromised.

If you have this kind of roof or are weighing one, call (979) 406-5431, every day except major holidays, 7:00am to 6:00pm. A roof inspection from us comes as a written report with photographs and no price.

This page explains a roofing material for Texas homeowners. It is a guide, not a list of services.