If you need to replace your asphalt shingles soon, you should consider using durable materials that last. Wood is one of the best alternatives to use, but you will want to choose the right materials and do the right improvements when installing cedar shake roofing. The following guide will help ensure the wood roof you install on your home will last for a long time:

1. Remove the Old Asphalt Shingles and Expose the Roof Decking

The old asphalt shingles on your roof will need to be removed when you replace them with cedar shakes. Once they are off your home, a roofing contractor should inspect your roof so they can repair the damaged decking. This needs to be done quickly to install the moisture barrier and protect your home from leaks while the replacement is being done. Therefore, larger projects may need to be done in phases to avoid leaving your home exposed if it rains.

2. Address Issues with Watershed 

The watershed of your roof design can be a big problem when installing wood shakes because this is usually the area where water collects or puddles. Therefore, before you install cedar shake roofing, you will want to talk to your roofing contractor about improvements to prevent water traps and problems with a watershed that can damage the new shakes.

3. Install a Durable Moisture Barrier Underlayment

Many different durable moisture barriers options can be installed on your roof. The most common type of roof moisture barrier is an asphalt felt paper, which is used to protect wood roof decking from damage due to condensation. Today, you can consider some alternatives such as synthetic moisture barriers that can improve the energy efficiency of your home.

4. Correctly Install and Maintain the New Cedar Shakes

The correct installation of cedar shake roofing is important. They need to have space to break and let moisture escape. Therefore, you can either install them over slates or use strips of felt paper to separate rows and prevent problems with moisture due to condensation getting trapped beneath the shakes.

These are some of the things that you will want to consider when replacing the asphalt shingles on your roof with durable cedar shakes. If you are ready to replace worn shingles, contact a local roofing company such as Liberty Exteriors LLC ​and talk to them about using cedar shakes for your new roof soon.