The roof of your home is an essential aesthetic element, but it also offers protection and security for your family. A secure roofing system is the first line of defense against nature’s elements and pesky intruders, so selecting the right roofing material for a roof replacement is paramount.
For the longest time, cedar shake roofing was the go-to choice for many homeowners across the country. Cedar shake roofing offered a woodsy, rustic appeal while also staying extremely cost-effective and offering longevity that was hard to beat. However, cedar roofing is now going out of style due to a variety of factors. Here are a few reasons to switch it up when it’s time for your next roof replacement. A roof evaluation in Kansas City by a local roofing contractor can help you determine when the time is right to replace your roof.
An Increase in Safety
One of the most prominent reasons that cedar shake roofs are a thing of the past is that cedar shingles present a fire hazard. After all, cedar is wood, and wood can catch fire in the right conditions. While cedar is highly resistant to threats such as insects and strong winds, it simply doesn’t stand a chance when it comes to lightning strikes. Instead, materials like asphalt or metal offer a reasonable alternative. Hiring a roofer in Kansas City is a great way to get the ball rolling and figure out how to make your new roof safer and more secure.
Warranty and Insurance Options
The fact that cedar shakes have the potential to be a fire hazard means that warranty options are limited. Additionally, insurance premiums could be impacted based on your roof’s material makeup. Understandably, manufacturers and insurance conglomerates want to minimize risk as much as possible, so opting for something more risk-averse can protect you in the long run.
A Nod Toward the Environmentally Conscious
Recent climate concerns have placed the spotlight on environmentally conscious decisions. Concerns about forest preservation have rendered cedar shake roofs nearly obsolete. In fact, many roofing companies featuring specialty roofing in Kansas City may not even offer this option anymore. Regardless, when you select a reputable roofer in Kansas City, you’ll receive guidance on the best roofing selection for you and your family.
City Restrictions
Lastly, many neighborhoods have begun to ban the use of cedar shake shingles for new roofs because of the fire hazard associated with them. This restriction includes many parts of Johnson County, so make sure to ask about this when contemplating the construction or replacement of a roof. If you live in Johnson County and are due for a roof replacement, city codes may require that you go with asphalt shingles or some other fire-resistant roofing material.
Shamrock Roofing is Your Go-To for a Roof Evaluation in Kansas City
There’s a lot to consider when replacing your roof. While it’s clear the trend is moving away from cedar shake shingles, the variety of roofing materials and styles of shingles on the market requires a trusted roofer’s expertise. Let Shamrock Roofing and Construction help you navigate the possibilities. Contact us today for an estimate!