Wood Roof Inspection: What Every Gainesville Homeowner Should Know

Wood roofs—like cedar shake or shingles—are prized for their natural beauty, insulation, and longevity. But to truly protect your home in Gainesville or nearby areas like Dawsonville or Flowery Branch, regular inspection is critical.

Here’s how you can stay ahead of costly problems with practical, honest insights from our team at L&L Roofing & Construction.

Why Wood Roofs Require Special Attention

Wood is a living material. Even when it’s cut, dried, and shaped into shingles or shakes, it continues to respond to:

• Humidity

• Sun exposure

• Rain cycles

• Insect activity

Here in north Georgia, we see plenty of that—hot summers, rainy springs, and even the occasional freeze. That’s why wood roofs need a routine inspection schedule and thoughtful upkeep.

What We Look For During a Wood Roof Inspection

When you schedule an inspection with L&L Roofing, here’s what we’re checking:

✅ Curling or Splitting Shakes

This usually means the wood is drying unevenly, often caused by poor ventilation or intense sun. Curling can lead to water penetration.

✅ Moss, Algae, or Fungus Growth

Common in shaded or tree-covered homes. These hold moisture, which accelerates rot and shortens the life of your roof.

✅ Nail Pops or Loose Fasteners

If nails are backing out or fasteners are corroding, shingles can become loose—leading to wind damage or leaks.

✅ Insect or Animal Damage

We’ve seen cases where squirrels or carpenter bees compromised entire sections of shake roofs. If they find a way in, water follows.

✅ Rotted or Brittle Sections

This is one of the biggest red flags. Rotted shakes often need full replacement, and it's usually a sign of poor drainage or prolonged neglect.

How Often Should You Inspect a Wood Roof?

We recommend the following:

• Annually: Schedule a professional inspection once a year, preferably after storm season.

• After Severe Weather: Anytime a major storm rolls through Gainesville, it’s wise to do a visual check from the ground.

• Before Selling or Buying: A pre-sale inspection helps avoid surprises.

Extend the Life of Your Wood Roof: 4 Simple Tips

1. Clean Off Debris – Remove leaves and branches regularly.

2. Ensure Proper Ventilation – Poor attic airflow leads to trapped moisture.

3. Trim Overhanging Trees – This helps prevent moss and critter access.

4. Seal & Treat When Needed – Use only manufacturer-recommended products for wood preservation. Never guess.

FAQ: Wood Roof Inspection in Gainesville

How long do wood roofs last in Georgia?
With regular maintenance, cedar shake roofs can last 25–30 years. Some treated or high-grade shakes may go 40+ years.

Can wood roofs be repaired, or do they need to be replaced?
Minor damage can be repaired. But if 20–25% of the roof is compromised, full replacement is usually more cost-effective.

Does my wood roof need cleaning?
Yes, especially if it has moss or algae. We use safe, approved methods that won’t damage your shakes or shingles.

Why Trust L&L Roofing & Construction?

We’re not here to upsell—we’re here to do what’s right. That’s why homeowners across Gainesville and Hall County trust us with their homes. Whether your roof needs a few shakes replaced or a full evaluation, you’ll always get honest advice, clear pricing, and faith-driven service.

Give us a call at (770) 874-0372 to schedule your inspection. We serve Gainesville, Cumming, Dawsonville, Buford, Dahlonega, and Flowery Branch with pride and integrity.