If you've outgrown the current asphalt shingles you have on your home, it's time to invest in wood shake shingles. If you live in an area that's prone to wildfires, you might be worried about an increased fire risk, which can occur with older, untreated wood shingles. That's where pressure-treated wood shingles come into the picture. Pressure-treated wood shingles provide increased fire resistance, which ensures increased protection for your home. However, once you invest in a wood shingle roof, you need to take steps to protect that investment. Here are four steps that will protect your new wood shingle roof.

Apply Protective Sealants

If you've decided to invest in a wood shake roof for your home, and you want to protect that investment, start an application of protective sealants. Sealants provide waterproofing protection for your wood shake shingles. However, the protection goes beyond waterproofing. Sealants also provide protection against sun rot, buckling, fungus, and premature aging. To ensure maximum protection for your new wood shake shingle roof, request the application of protection sealants at the time of installation. 

Keep Tree Branches Away

If you have trees in your yard, and those trees are near your home, pay attention to the branches. If there are branches that are close enough to brush the roof, your new roof may be at risk for damage. You might not know this, but those branches pose a variety of risks for your wood shake shingle roof. First, the branches can generate moisture that can lead to mold and fungus growth. Second, wind movement can loosen the wood shingles. Finally, heavy branches can break off and damage your roof. To avoid those risks, remove the overhanging branches before you have your wood shake shingles installed. 

Deep Clean the Shingles

If you plan to choose wood shake shingles for your new roof, you will want to extend the life of your investment for as long as possible. Unfortunately, dirt and debris can do considerable damage to wood shingles, which is why proper cleaning is so important for your new roof. First, remove debris on a regular basis. This includes leaves and pine needles. Second, use a power washer to clean your wood shake shingles at least once a year. Remove dirt and debris from the surface of your wood shake shingles will help to protect your roof. 

Monitor Shingle Damage

If you want to get the most out of your new wood shake shingle roof, stay on top of the repairs. You might not realize this, but a lack of repair can create serious problems for you. Luckily, your roofing contractor can help you with the repairs. They can also provide the annual maintenance your new wood shingle roof will need. Contact a local roofing company, such as Rainbow Roof Maintenance, to learn more.

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