Some people prefer the smell and feel of wood. They like the look of it. They prefer not only wood furniture but live in house of log or wooden siding. Some even have wood roofs. In fact, they use cedar shakes. While Cincinnati roofing companies may handle all types of roofs, including shakes, they may also recommend, when it comes to replacing, the owner may do him or herself a favor by switching from cedar shakes to asphalt shake shingles.
What Are Asphalt Shake Shingles?
Asphalt shingle shakes are a relatively new product. They tend to be composites. They usually combine asphalt with a rubberized polymer or other type of strengthening or reinforcing material. The intent is to mimic the style and look of cedar or other wood shakes while providing a roof with all the advantages of asphalt shingles. Products available include Woodcrest and StormMaster. These type of asphalt shingles are sometimes referred to as architectural roofing material.
The Problem with Cedar Shakes
While cedar shakes are electable to look at, they do have certain issues that require maintenance. Wood shakes are quite susceptible to certain types of weather. As any roofing company can tell you they do have certain issues, generally related to colder weather. In Cincinnati, cedar shake roofs may suffer from:
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Cracking
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Splitting
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Warping
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Shrinking
Other issues concerning cedar shakes include the price. Cedar shakes are easily twice as expensive as the current composite asphalt shake shingles. They also are not immune to fire. In some cities and regions, cedar shake shingles are not legal anymore. They must be replaced with something that is fireproof.
Why a Roofing Company May Recommend Asphalt Shake Shingles
If you wonder why a Cincinnati roofing company may recommend asphalt shake shingles, the answers are simple. Companies suggest this type of tile over the original cedar shake for any of several reasons. These include:
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Cost: This is a very cost-effective means of roofing your home
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Durability: they are able to withstand many different types of weather
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Longevity: Asphalt shake shingles can last for as long as 20 years
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Easy to maintain
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Fireproof
When it comes time to replace your current roof, while you may think about the beauty and clarity design of wood shakes, it may be better to look for a viable alternative. The beauty of cedar shakes can fade. The weather may prove to be devastating. As a result, if you want the look and feel of wood shakes, a Cincinnati roofing company may recommend you turn to asphalt shake shingles as a durable and very suitable replacement.
