Understanding the Cedar Shake Roofing Phenomenon
In the vast landscape of roofing, a common scenario encountered, especially in multi-family homes, is the presence of 1-2 layers of asphalt shingles layered over Cedar Shake roofing. Beneath these Cedar Shakes, one typically finds furring strips. These are 4-inch wide boards spaced several inches apart, designed to support cedar shakes while ensuring they have adequate ventilation.
However, when it comes to asphalt shingles, this setup poses a challenge. Asphalt shingles are crafted to be affixed to plywood, a material devoid of gaps. The spaces present in a furring strip roof imply that a significant number of nails in an asphalt roof won’t secure to any wood. Furthermore, placing asphalt shingles over a Cedar roof can reduce their lifespan. The combined weight and trapped attic heat can accelerate the decay of asphalt shingles.
Addressing the Core Issue: Plywood Over Furring Strips
Merely adding another layer to the roof might seem like a quick fix, but it’s a temporary solution that doesn’t address the root of the problem. At Home Evolution, our approach is thorough. We strip away all the layers until we reach the furring strips. Our next step is to lay a 1/2” CDX plywood deck over these strips.
Why plywood, you ask? Plywood serves a dual purpose:
- Gap Filling: Plywood effectively fills the voids left by the furring strips.
- Strength and Support: The 1/2” plywood is robust, crafted to support the weight of heavy asphalt shingles.
Once the plywood foundation is firmly in place, it paves the way for the installation of essential underlayments and flashing.
Cost Implications and Long-Term Benefits
There’s a common misconception that integrating extra plywood will significantly inflate the roof replacement cost. While it’s true that there’s an added expense, it’s crucial to view this as an investment. Addressing the foundational issue ensures that any subsequent roofing layers or fixes have longevity.
By solidifying the base of your roof, you’re not just ensuring a longer life for the roof but also peace of mind for yourself. At Home Evolution, in collaboration with IKO, we offer our clients a comprehensive 50-year warranty on a full roof replacement. This warranty isn’t limited to just the shingles; it’s an assurance of our impeccable workmanship.
Why Choose Home Evolution?
As a leading roofing company in Albany NY, our commitment is to provide top-notch solutions that stand the test of time. Our track record speaks for itself, with numerous multi-family roofs installed in the region. Our dedication to quality and our partnership with industry leaders like IKO ensures that when you choose Home Evolution, you’re opting for excellence.
In Conclusion
Roofing is more than just layering materials; it’s about understanding the nuances of each layer, the materials involved, and ensuring that the foundation is robust. Whether you’re considering a new roof or addressing issues with an existing one, always remember the importance of the foundation. And when in doubt, always trust the experts at Home Evolution, one of the premier roofing contractors in Albany NY.