Why Homeowners in Minneapolis, Minnesota Should Replace Their Shake Roofs
Wood shake roofs were once a popular choice for homes throughout Minneapolis, valued for their rustic charm and natural look. But in today’s world of extreme weather, rising insurance costs, and modern building codes, shake roofs have become more of a liability than a benefit.
At Smart Builders Group, we help Minneapolis homeowners upgrade their shake roofs with long-lasting, low-maintenance materials like CertainTeed shingles, metal roofing, and Brava synthetic shake — all built to handle Minnesota’s toughest seasons.
1. Mold, Mildew & Leaks: Common Problems with Shake Roofs
Minnesota's weather — from summer humidity to winter freeze-thaw cycles — causes shake roofs to absorb moisture. Over time, this leads to:
- Mold and mildew growth
- Rotting wood
- Warping, cracking, and splitting
- Leaks that damage your attic and walls
Because of the natural gaps in wood shakes, shake roofs are far more prone to leaks than modern roofing systems. If your roof is leaking or showing signs of mold, it’s time to replace it before small issues become major damage.
2. Cracking, Splitting & Pest Problems
As shake roofs age, the wood becomes brittle and begins to crack and split, especially in Minneapolis’s freeze-thaw conditions. These gaps create easy entry points for:
- Carpenter ants
- Termites
- Rodents and birds
Pests can chew through insulation, wires, and wood framing — leading to costly repairs. At Smart Builders Group, we recommend pest-resistant roofing materials like Brava synthetic shake, CertainTeed shingles, and metal roofsthat keep your home sealed and secure.
3. Fire Hazards & Insurance Issues
Older shake roofs — especially those untreated for fire resistance — are a major fire risk. In dry summers or lightning storms, they can ignite quickly, putting your home and family in danger.
As a result, many insurers in Minnesota:
- Increase your home insurance premiums
- Require frequent inspections
- Deny coverage for homes with untreated shake roofs
Smart Builders Group installs Class A fire-rated materials like CertainTeed and Brava that give you the protection and insurability you need.
4. High Maintenance = High Costs
Shake roofs require regular upkeep:
- Cleaning mold, moss, and algae
- Replacing cracked or missing shakes
- Treating for moisture and bugs
In Minneapolis, where ice, snow, and storms are frequent, this maintenance adds up fast. By switching to low-maintenance roofing optionslike metal, Brava, or CertainTeed shingles, you’ll save time, money, and stress for years to come.
5. Poor Energy Efficiency in Minnesota’s Climate
Wood is not an effective insulator. With a shake roof, heat escapes during the winter and enters during the summer — which leads to:
- Higher heating and cooling bills
- Increased strain on your HVAC system
At Smart Builders Group, we install roofing systems engineered for energy efficiency, helping homeowners in Minneapolis stay comfortable while saving on utilities year-round.
6. Increased Home Value & Curb Appeal
Let’s be honest — a weathered, mossy shake roof makes your home look dated. Replacing it instantly improves curb appeal and can increase property value.
- Brava synthetic shake offers the look of cedar with none of the rot or mold.
- CertainTeed Landmark® shingles come in a wide range of colors and styles with strong warranties.
- Metal roofing gives your home a sleek, modern appearance and can last 50+ years.
Whether you're planning to sell or just want peace of mind, a new roof makes a big impression.
Smart Builders Group: Trusted Shake Roof Replacement in Minneapolis
At Smart Builders Group, we specialize in removing outdated wood shake roofs and replacing them with premium, high-performance materials that meet today’s building codes and insurance standards.
We proudly install:
- CertainTeed Landmark® and Landmark Pro® shingles
- Brava synthetic shake roofing
- Durable, energy-efficient metal roofing
- We serve homeowners across Minneapolis, St. Paul, and the greater Twin Cities metro area, providing expert craftsmanship and honest, straightforward estimates.
- 📞 Get a Free Shake Roof Replacement Estimate in Minneapolis
- Is your shake roof showing signs of mold, leaks, or wear? Tired of constant maintenance or high insurance costs?
- Let the experts at Smart Builders Group inspect your roof and show you modern, cost-effective alternatives that protect your home for decades.
- Call Smart Builders Group today or fill out our online form to schedule your free roof inspection and quote in Minneapolis, Minnesota.
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