What are Timber Shingles?Otherwise known as timber cladding, timber shingles are commonly seen on mountain-style cabins and American-style homes. The popular roof covering ensures that moisture from wet climates and snowfall has less chance of damaging a roof’s solidarity. Rather than using outdated slate, timber shingles are fabricated using high-quality woods such as Western Red Cedar. Slate and other alternatives to shingles are too porous and prone to high liquid absorption. Slate-like materials, unlike cedar, are prone to staining and easily corrode being exposed to moisture. Western Red Cedar shingles and shakes are favoured due to their safeguarding quality and beautiful, vibrant colour. Shakes are an old-fashioned variation of a timber shingle. These shingles have a rustic, rough-hewn appearance, as they are made from split logs rather than sawn logs. High-grade, blue label cedar shakes are often used for roofing, while lower-grade shakes are used for siding purposes. Shingles, such as the Western Red Cedar variation, are usually much more refined than shakes. They are finished with a specialized process that makes them appear more modern and attractive. However, untreated shingles can become less durable than shakes, especially in wet climates. Both shingles and shakes are great choices for roofing or siding in Sydney. Our humid, subtropical climate allows timber shingles and shakes to be the perfect choice of safeguard on your roof. MLR Slate Roofing offer a large selection of high-quality shingles and shakes, providing the perfect solution for any new roof. Contact us to discuss the installation of timber shingles and shakes on your home. Timber Shingle MaintenanceWhen correctly maintained, a timber shingle roof will last over 30 years. In contrast, the longevity of asphalt shingle roofs span to 10 years before requiring replacement or repairs. When installing a timber shingle roof, you need to be aware of its unique maintenance process to ensure it remains effective and aesthetic for years to come. Here’s what you need to know:Yearly debris removalTwigs, leaves, and other debris gathers in the gaps between timber shingles and can retain moisture. In turn, this can result in increased moisture retention – which spurs the growth of moss, algae, and even fungus. These organisms can be harmful to your wooden shingles, as well as the roof cavity and home. For this reason, a yearly debris removal is recommended before the wet season begins. This significantly reduces the impact of moisture from debris. Chemical cleaning compoundsThere are a wide variety of cleaning compounds available that can remove dirt and stains, and help keep your roof looking brand-new and beautiful. You can choose to apply these yourself, or partner with cleaning professionals. Compound treatments prevent the growth of moss, mold, and algae, and other organisms. Usually, they must only be applied every few years, but they should be applied more often if you regularly clean your roof.