Cleaning and Stain Coating Cedar Shakes Roof

Proper maintenance of cedar shake roofs requires specialized knowledge and products to preserve the natural beauty and longevity of the wood. Our professional approach combines biological cleaning with premium penetrating oils to protect your investment.

Cedar Shake Roof Before Cleaning - Showing Black Algae ("Cyanobacteria") Growth

Cedar Shakes After D2 Cleaning — After D2 Cleaning - Algae Removed, Natural Wood Restored

Finished Cedar Shake Roof — Completed Project - Protected and Beautified Cedar Shakes

D2 Biological Cleaner Application — D2 Biological Cleaner - Gentle No-Rinse Formula

Milwaukee Battery Backpack Soap Applicator — This Soap Applicator Did Great for Uniform and Thorough Coverage

Milwaukee Battery Backpack Water Sprayer — This Water Sprayer Was Useful for Cleaning Excessive Algae/Lichen

Penofin Brazilian Rosewood Oil - Premium Protection

Pump for Applying Penofin Oil Coating — Pump for Application of Penofin Penetrating Oil

Pressure Set to 30 PSI — Pressure Gauge (Set to 30 psi Works Well), We Used Viton Seal in Pump Handle

Penofin Brazilian Rosewood Oil Colors — Oil Colors (We Used Sable, Other Colors May Be Hard to Source)

Professional Cleaning with D2 Biological Cleaner

We use D2 biological cleaner as our primary cleaning solution because it offers significant advantages over traditional pressure washing:

Biological Action: Uses enzymatic formulas to safely break down black algae, moss, and lichen without damaging the wood
No Pressure Washing Required: Gentle application preserves the wood's natural protective lignin coating
Preserves Lignin: Unlike harsh chemicals, D2 doesn't eat away at the wood's natural protective outer layer
Environmentally Friendly: Biodegradable formula is safe for surrounding landscaping

Premium Protection with Penofin Brazilian Rosewood Oil

After thorough cleaning, we apply Penofin Brazilian Rosewood penetrating oil for long-lasting protection:

Breathable Protection: Allows wood to naturally expand and contract while repelling moisture
Deep Penetration: Rosewood oil carries UV-blocking pigments deep into wood fibers
Enhanced Longevity: 2-5 years protection on low-slope roofs, up to 5-10 years on steep-slope roofs
Natural Beauty: Enhances wood grain while providing superior weather protection

Understanding Cedar Aging and Maintenance

Cedar shakes naturally age and change appearance over time:

Initial State: Fresh cedar has warm, rich wood tones with visible grain patterns
Natural Aging: Over time, cedar develops a silver-grey patina from lignin exposure
Lignon Protection: This silver-grey coating is actually the wood's natural protective layer
Heavy Growth: If extensive algae or lichen has developed, gentle scrubbing with nylon brushes may be necessary, which can remove some of the protective lignin coat

Professional Roof Access and Safety

Many professional roofing contractors consider it acceptable to walk on cedar shake roofs when necessary, provided proper safety protocols are followed:

Full PPE Required: Fall protection harness systems are mandatory
Proper Footwear: Soft-soled shoes to minimize damage to shakes
Strategic Walking: Stepping on butt-ends of shakes where they're nailed, not in the middle
Minimal Impact: Careful movement patterns to preserve roof integrity

Why Choose Professional Cedar Shake Maintenance?

Proper cedar shake maintenance extends the life of your roof while preserving its natural beauty. Our systematic approach ensures your cedar roof receives the care it needs without compromising its structural integrity or aesthetic appeal. Regular maintenance with quality products like D2 and Penofin can add decades to your roof's lifespan.