When it comes to cedar shake roofs, timing is everything. Replace it too early, and you might be spending money unnecessarily. Wait too long, and you risk leaks, rot, and expensive damage to your home. So how do you know when your cedar roof has reached the end of its life — and when is the right time to replace it?
Signs It Might Be Time to Replace Your Cedar Roof
Cedar roofs are beautiful and durable, but they do wear out. On average, you’ll get 20–30 years out of a cedar shake roof in the Pacific Northwest — but only if it’s been properly maintained.
Here are some common signs your roof may be nearing the end:
- Curling or splitting shakes
Large sections of curling, cracking, or brittle shakes are clear signs of age and weather damage. - Heavy moss, mold, or algae growth
Some moss is normal in our climate, but when it becomes thick or grows under the shakes, it can trap moisture and speed up decay. - Granule-like debris in your gutters
As cedar breaks down, it leaves behind fibrous debris. If your gutters are filling up with it, your shakes are deteriorating. - Interior leaks or ceiling stains
Water spots, peeling paint, or bubbling drywall often mean underlayment failure — especially if they appear after rain. - Frequent patchwork repairs
If you’re constantly having to fix small areas, the roof is probably ready to be replaced as a whole. - 20+ years old with no treatment history
A cedar roof without regular maintenance may not last as long as expected. If you don’t know the last time it was treated, it’s time to get it evaluated.
The Role of Treatment and Maintenance
This is where many homeowners get caught off guard.
Cedar roofs must be maintained to reach their full lifespan. In the Pacific Northwest, untreated cedar may last only 15–20 years. But with proper care — cleaning, moss removal, and applying cedar treatments every 5 to 7 years — that life can be extended to 25 or even 30+ years.
A neglected roof may look okay from a distance, but once you inspect it up close, it might be much further along than you thought.
What’s the Best Time of Year to Replace a Cedar Roof?
In Western Oregon, the ideal season is late spring through early fall — roughly May through October. This gives you:
- More consistent dry weather
- Better conditions for removing and installing materials
- Less chance of exposing the roof deck to moisture during the project
- A smoother installation timeline without weather-related delays
However, if your roof is leaking or actively failing, it’s better to act immediately — even during the rainy season. Experienced crews can still replace roofs year-round, but expect a bit more prep and cost for weather protection.
Should I Wait Until It Leaks?
No. Cedar roofs tend to fail gradually, and by the time you notice a leak or ceiling damage, the internal structure of your roof — including the plywood deck — may already be compromised.
This is especially important for older cedar roofs that may have been installed without proper sheathing underneath. In those cases, new decking may need to be added, and that adds time and cost. Planning ahead helps avoid surprises.
What If I’m Planning to Add Solar or Gutter Guards?
If you’re thinking about solar panels, new gutters, or gutter guards — always address the roof first. It’s much easier and more cost-effective to replace the roof before those systems are installed.
Otherwise, you’ll end up having to remove and reinstall everything, and that can lead to coordination issues, extra labor, or damage to your new system.
Final Thought: Don’t Guess — Get a Straight Answer
Even if your roof looks okay from the ground, the cost of waiting too long can be far higher than planning early.
A quick, no-pressure roof inspection can give you the clarity you need. That doesn’t mean getting “sold” — it just means having someone walk the roof, check the condition, and give you a straightforward opinion.
If you live in Western Oregon and are unsure about the state of your cedar roof, we’re happy to take a look and let you know where you stand — no pressure, no pitch.