Currently, the appeal of a wood shake or wood shingle roof
system principally is associated with its appearance. Other
steep-slope roof coverings can imitate wood's textures, colors and
shapes but rarely are mistaken for the genuine article.
Material property changes resulting from wood's interaction with
the environment—referred to as "weathering"—are largely
responsible for its aesthetic character. However, these same
weathering effects provide indications of a wood roof system's
physical condition. Early detection and appropriate response to
certain conditions resulting from weathering can make a difference
between a wood roof system's need for repair or complete
replacement.
Wood degradation results from the cumulative effects of
ultraviolet (UV) light, stresses from changing moisture content,
leaching of natural wood preservatives and decay caused by fungi.
The deterioration rate depends on roof slope, roof orientation,
shading, climate, air circulation available for...
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