What to Expect During a Cedar Shake Roof Removal

Cedar Shake Roof Removal

Thinking about removing your cedar shake roof and replacing it with a modern asphalt roofing system? Before you dive into the process, it’s essential to understand how the job will go and what to expect on installation day. At Mattsson Roofing, we recently completed a cedar shake roof removal in Saddle River, NJ, and we’re here to share some key insights to help you prepare.

What Makes Cedar Shake Removal Different?

Cedar shake removal is a more intensive process compared to a standard roof replacement. Here’s what you need to know:

Extra Messy and Dusty:
Removing cedar shakes generates significantly more debris, including wood shards and dust, which can spread throughout your property.
Noisy Work Environment:
Without a plywood decking surface in place, the removal process can be much louder than typical roofing projects.
Additional Preparation:
Your roofing contractor should have a detailed plan to manage the mess, such as laying down tarps to protect your property from falling debris.

The Removal Process Explained

Protecting the Property:
At the start of the job, tarps are carefully placed to shield landscaping, walkways, and other areas from debris.
Removing the Cedar Shakes:
As the cedar shakes are pried off, individual pieces and wood dust will fall through attic spaces. Homeowners should be prepared for extra cleanup inside and around their home.
Installing New Decking:
Once the cedar shakes are removed, new sheets of plywood are installed over the existing lath strips. This step creates the decking surface necessary for an asphalt roofing system.
Final Installation:
After the plywood is secured, the asphalt shingles are installed, completing the transformation from cedar shake to a durable and modern roofing system.

What Homeowners Should Expect

Interior Preparation:
Be aware that the process may cause vibrations and dust inside your home, particularly in the attic area. It’s a good idea to cover items stored in the attic and temporarily move any fragile belongings.
Noise Levels:
The absence of plywood initially amplifies the sounds of removal. Prepare for a noisier-than-usual workday, especially if you’re at home during the project.
Expert Coordination:
A trusted roofing contractor, like Mattsson Roofing, will ensure a smooth process from start to finish, minimizing disruptions and protecting your property.

Why Choose Mattsson Roofing?

With years of experience in Bergen County, NJ, Mattsson Roofing specializes in cedar shake roof removal and asphalt roof installation. Our process is:

Thorough and Professional: We prioritize property protection and cleanup.
Solution-Oriented: We ensure every step is executed for long-term durability.
Locally Trusted: Serving Saddle River and beyond, we’re Bergen County’s go-to roofing experts as shown by our 270+ 5 Star Google Reviews.