Rustic Wood Finish Application on Wood Roofing

A Homeowner’s Guide from L&L Roofing & Construction

At L&L Roofing & Construction, we’re not just installing roofs—we’re helping protect and beautify your home with time-tested craftsmanship and honest guidance. If you're drawn to the timeless character of cedar shake roofing, a rustic wood finish can highlight its natural charm while preserving it for decades.

Here’s how to apply that finish the right way.

Why Homeowners Love Rustic Wood Roofs

Rustic cedar shakes give your home a rich, weathered look that fits perfectly in Gainesville and surrounding areas like Dahlonega and Flowery Branch. But beauty aside, untreated wood can weather inconsistently—leading to early decay or uneven coloring.

That’s where a well-applied finish makes all the difference. It brings out the texture, deepens the natural grain, and protects the cedar from UV, moisture, and fungal growth.

1. Start with the Right Product

If you're using Certi-label™ cedar shakes from the Cedar Shake & Shingle Bureau, you're off to a good start. These are handsplit and resawn, giving that authentic rough-hewn appearance homeowners love.

Look for:

• Certi-Split® or Certi-Sawn® products for a rustic texture

• Kiln-dried or air-seasoned shakes (check with your installer)

• Wood treated for fire and decay resistance, if required by code

Make sure the label reads "Certi-label™"—not just any blue label. This ensures third-party inspection and top-grade material.

2. Prep the Surface — Don’t Skip This

Before applying any finish:

• Let the cedar dry out on-site if it's freshly milled

• Remove dirt, dust, and mill glaze

• Test moisture levels—finish adheres best when wood is below 15% moisture content

Tip: Use a brush or low-pressure sprayer to clean the shakes. Never pressure wash—too much force can scar the wood.

3. Choose a Finish That Enhances and Protects

There are two general finish types for that rustic look:

• Oil-based penetrating stains: Deep, natural tone that ages beautifully

• Semi-transparent water-based stains: More UV resistant, easier cleanup

Avoid solid paints—they trap moisture and hide the natural grain.

Pick a color that matches your vision:

• Driftwood Gray for weathered charm

• Rich Cedar Brown for deep rustic warmth

• Light Natural Tones for a sun-bleached cabin feel

Whichever you choose, be sure it's UV-resistant, breathable, and rated for exterior cedar application.

4. Apply It the Right Way

You want even saturation and proper drying:

• Use a brush for best penetration on hand-split textures

• Work in shade to avoid flash-drying

• Apply one coat, then assess if a second is needed (depends on the porosity of the shake)

• Back-brush to work finish into rough surfaces and joints

Pro Tip: Apply the finish on-site before installation for full 360° protection. This prevents moisture absorption from the back side.

5. Maintain It Over Time

Rustic wood roofing isn’t high-maintenance, but it’s not set-and-forget either. Plan for:

• Re-coating every 5–7 years depending on exposure

• Annual inspections for moss or debris buildup

• Gentle cleaning as needed with a soft brush

Staying proactive keeps your investment strong for decades.

FAQs

How long does a rustic finish last on cedar roofs?
With proper prep and application, most finishes last 5–7 years before reapplication is needed.

Do I need to seal cedar shakes?
A breathable, penetrating stain is preferred over film-forming sealers, which can trap moisture and lead to rot.

Can I apply finish after installation?
Yes, but it’s harder to reach all surfaces. Pre-finishing each shake before install gives the best protection.

Do finishes affect warranty on Certi-label™ products?
Some treatments can impact warranties. Always check with the shake manufacturer and installer.

Trust the Pros at L&L Roofing

We’ve installed and finished cedar shake roofs throughout Gainesville and surrounding communities. Our team knows how to bring out the best in natural wood—honestly, carefully, and with your home’s long-term protection in mind.

Need help with your cedar roof or want to schedule an inspection? Call us today at (770) 874-0372.

We do the right thing—because it’s the right thing.