Wood Roof Recoloring: Is It Right for Your Gainesville Home?

If you’ve got a cedar shake or wood shingle roof on your home in Gainesville or nearby areas like Dahlonega, Buford, or Cumming, you probably chose it for its natural beauty. But over time, even the best wood roofs can fade, weather unevenly, or lose their curb appeal. That’s where wood roof recoloring comes in.

At L&L Roofing & Construction, we’ve worked on plenty of cedar roofs throughout north Georgia. Here's what you need to know before you decide whether to recolor—or replace—your wood roof.

What Is Wood Roof Recoloring?

Recoloring is the process of applying a specially formulated stain, pigmented preservative, or treatment to a wood roof to restore its original color—or give it a new one. Unlike paint, which seals and can suffocate wood, high-quality stains are breathable and allow the cedar or wood shakes to age naturally while enhancing color uniformity.

When Recoloring Makes Sense

Not every wood roof needs to be recolored. But it can be a great option if your roof is:

• Structurally sound and has life left in it

• Faded or blotchy from sun and weather

• Covered in moss, mildew, or black streaks

• Looking older than it actually is

If you’re dealing with missing or warped shakes, though, recoloring won’t fix the deeper problem. In that case, a full inspection and possible repairs—or even a roof replacement—may be the better call.

The Right Way to Recolor a Cedar or Wood Roof

Here’s what a proper wood roof recoloring project should include:

✅ Step 1: Full Roof Cleaning

Remove dirt, moss, and old surface buildup using low-pressure washing or certified wood-safe cleaning agents. High pressure can split or damage wood shingles.

✅ Step 2: Dry Time

The roof needs to dry completely—usually 48 to 72 hours—before any stain or preservative is applied. Trapped moisture can lead to decay.

✅ Step 3: Recoloring

A professional-grade, breathable oil-based or water-repellent stain is applied by brush or sprayer. These products often include UV inhibitors, mold resistance, and water repellents.

✅ Step 4: Optional Maintenance Plan

Your recolored roof can last 5–7 years or more depending on exposure. A simple maintenance plan (cleaning and touch-ups) will keep it looking sharp and lasting longer.

Risks of DIY Recoloring

We’ve seen plenty of well-meaning homeowners damage their roofs trying to recolor them. Here's why it’s best left to professionals:

• Using the wrong product can seal the wood and cause premature rot

• Pressure washing can crack or delaminate shakes

• Application on a moist roof can trap water and shorten lifespan

• Unmatched color blending can make the roof look worse, not better

At L&L Roofing, we use Certi-label™ cedar products and industry-approved treatment methods recommended by the Cedar Shake & Shingle Bureau.

When Recoloring Isn’t Worth It

Recoloring is a cosmetic fix—not structural. If your cedar or wood roof is:

• Over 30 years old

• Soft, spongy, or brittle to the touch

• Missing multiple shakes or has widespread rot

• Letting in water or causing attic issues

…then recoloring will just buy you time, not peace of mind.

We’ll always give you an honest opinion. Sometimes, the right thing is a full roof replacement, and we’re here to walk you through every option.

FAQ: Wood Roof Recoloring in North Georgia

How much does wood roof recoloring cost?
Pricing depends on roof size, pitch, and condition—but it’s typically cheaper than a new roof and ranges from $1.75 to $3.50 per sq ft for cleaning and staining.

Can I change the color of my cedar roof?
Yes—but keep it natural. Darker stains tend to blend better and last longer. Lighter colors may fade quicker under Georgia sun.

Does stain protect the roof from rot or mold?
A good-quality stain can include mildewcide and water-repellent agents that offer some protection—but it’s not a substitute for regular inspections.

Trust L&L Roofing to Do It Right

At L&L Roofing & Construction, our team doesn't just slap on a coat of color. We take pride in preserving the craftsmanship of every wood and cedar roof we work on. We’ll inspect your roof first, explain your options clearly, and never upsell you something you don’t need.

Want your cedar shake roof to look great again?

📞 Call us at (770) 874-0372 or contact us here to schedule a free inspection.