09/23/2026
IS YOUR OLD CEDAR ROOF READY FOR ANOTHER BC RAINY SEASON?
Cedar roofs are common across Surrey, White Rock, Delta, Langley and the Lower Mainland—but they take a beating from our climate.
Months of rain, damp shaded areas, moss, falling needles and leaves, coastal exposure and blocked gutters can all shorten the life of an older cedar shake roof.
The good news: not every old cedar roof needs replacement. A few damaged shakes, one flashing issue or a blocked valley may still be repairable. The key is catching problems before water gets underneath the roof.
Here are 10 things homeowners can safely look for from the ground, with binoculars or zoomed-in photos:
1. Moss, algae, leaves or debris building up—especially in valleys and on north-facing slopes.
2. Split, broken, loose or missing cedar shakes.
3. Curling, cupping or lifted shake edges near the gutter line.
4. Frayed, thin, soft or crumbling cedar ends.
5. Cracked, loose or missing ridge and hip caps.
6. Valleys that are packed with debris, mossy, stained or visibly deteriorated.
7. Flashing problems around chimneys, skylights, wall transitions, vents or dormers.
8. Exposed, rusted or backing-out fasteners.
9. Overflowing gutters, water running behind gutters, stained fascia or wet roof edges.
10. Interior warning signs: ceiling stains, musty odours, damp attic insulation or visible water intrusion.
A simple rule of thumb:
• One or two isolated issues: schedule maintenance or a small repair.
• Several issues in one area: get a professional repair assessment.
• Widespread curling, splitting, frayed cedar, repeated leaks or interior moisture signs: start planning and budgeting for replacement.
IMPORTANT: Don’t walk on an old cedar roof. Aged shakes can be brittle and slippery. Take photos safely from the ground or from a properly secured ladder at the gutter line.
At True North Strong Contracting, we help homeowners understand whether a roof needs maintenance, a targeted repair or replacement planning—without the pressure or vague answers.
We serve Surrey, South Surrey, White Rock, Delta, Langley and the Lower Mainland.
Call (604) 375-8672 or visit tnscontracting.ca to book a roof assessment.