Wood shingles add character that no other roofing material can match. The natural grain patterns, warm tones, and the way they weather over time create aesthetics that homeowners prize. But wood demands attention that other materials don't require.
San Diego's climate treats wood roofs relatively well compared to wetter regions, but UV exposure and occasional storms still take their toll.
Recognizing When Replacement Is Needed
Individual shingle damage is normal. A few cracked, split, or missing shingles don't indicate roof-wide failure. These localized issues warrant targeted replacement—pull the damaged shingle, slide in a matching replacement, and secure it properly.
Pattern damage tells a different story. When shingles across a large section show similar wear—curling, splitting, or erosion—the roof is reaching end of life. Replacing individual pieces becomes a losing game against systemic deterioration.
Check for these warning signs:
- Shingles that lift easily or feel soft
- Widespread moss or lichen growth
- Heavy granular debris in gutters (for treated shingles)
- Multiple bare patches where shingles have detached
- Visible daylight through the deck from inside the attic
Fire safety concerns deserve serious attention in San Diego. Older untreated wood roofs create fire hazards during our dry season and Santa Ana wind events. If your wood shingles don't have current fire-retardant treatment, replacement with rated materials should be a priority, especially if you live in a designated fire hazard area.
The Replacement Process
Single shingle replacement is straightforward for anyone comfortable working at height. Cut or break the damaged shingle into pieces small enough to remove. Use a flat bar to extract nails holding the shingle above. Slide the new shingle into position, nail it where the overlapping shingles will hide the nail heads, and seal exposed nail heads from the removed piece above.
Matching replacement shingles to weathered existing ones challenges even experienced roofers. New shingles will darken over time, but they'll look obviously different initially. Reclaimed shingles from specialty suppliers offer better matches for partial replacements.
Section replacement involves more complexity. When multiple adjacent shingles need replacement, the crew works in courses, weaving new shingles into existing patterns while maintaining proper exposure and overlap.
Full roof replacement follows a familiar sequence. Strip the old material, inspect and repair the deck, install new underlayment, and apply shingles from eaves to ridge. The difference with wood is in the details—proper spacing for expansion, correct nail placement, and appropriate flashing techniques specific to wood roofing.
Material selection affects longevity. Western red cedar remains the standard choice, with natural oils that resist rot and insects. Treated products offer fire resistance that untreated wood lacks. Pressure-treated shingles penetrate deeper than spray-applied treatments and maintain protection longer.
Maintenance for Maximum Life
Wood roofs need more care than composite alternatives. Annual inspection catches problems early. Clearing debris—leaves, branches, moss—prevents moisture retention that accelerates decay. Overhanging branches should be trimmed to reduce debris accumulation and abrasion damage.
Treatment renewal extends wood roof life significantly. Fire-retardant and preservative treatments wear off over time. Reapplication every five to seven years maintains protection. This ongoing maintenance cost should factor into your decision when choosing wood roofing.
Cleaning requires care. Pressure washing damages wood shingle surfaces. Chemical cleaning with appropriate products removes moss and algae without erosion. Work with contractors experienced specifically in wood roof care.
