Barn Roof Replacement: Converting from Cedar Shake to Asphalt Shingles or Metal Panels

Many property owners throughout the Inland Northwest are evaluating barn roof replacement as aging materials begin to fail. Whether your barn roof is showing signs of wear, storm damage, or long-term exposure to harsh weather, replacing it with a more durable roofing material can protect the entire building for decades to come.

At Russell Quality Roofing, we help property owners convert aging cedar shake barn roofs to modern asphalt shingles or standing seam metal systems built to perform in high winds, snow, and seasonal temperature changes.

Why Consider Barn Roof Replacement?

Barn structures face unique challenges compared to residential homes. Larger barns often have steep roof pitches, wide spans, and exposure to wind and snow loads that place stress on the roof structure over time.

Common reasons property owners pursue barn roof replacement include:

• Water intrusion and recurring leaks
• Missing shingles or deteriorating shakes
• Rot in roof decking or rafters
• Storm damage from high winds
• Aging materials nearing the end of their lifespan

When a barn roof is left exposed to ongoing moisture, stored goods, equipment, livestock areas, and the structural integrity of the entire building can be affected.

Signs Your Barn Roof Needs Repair or Replacement

Sometimes barn roof repair is sufficient. In other cases, a full replacement is the safer long-term solution.

Watch for these warning signs:

• Loose or missing shingles
• Rusting or loose metal panels
• Soft spots in plywood decking
• Visible sagging between rafters
• Mold or moisture in the attic space
• Evidence of water damage on interior walls

If structural issues are present, addressing them early reduces risk and prevents further deterioration.

Converting from Cedar Shake to Modern Roofing Materials

Older barns were often covered in cedar shake. While visually appealing, cedar has limitations in areas exposed to harsh weather, snow, and wind.

Modern materials offer improved durability and reduced maintenance.

Option 1: Architectural Asphalt Shingles

Architectural asphalt shingles provide a cost-effective option for many barns in good structural shape.

Benefits include:

• Reliable performance in wind and snow
• Easier installation on steep roof pitches
• Traditional appearance that suits many agricultural buildings
• Readily available roofing materials
• 50-year product warranty and 25-year labor warranty

Asphalt shingles are often a practical solution when replacing aging materials on barns that do not require heavy-duty steel systems.

Option 2: Standing Seam Metal Roofing

For larger barns or structures exposed to frequent wind and snow, a metal roof system offers long-term value.

Standing seam metal roofing provides:

• Strong resistance to high winds
• Excellent performance under snow load
• Durable steel panels securely fastened with screws
• Reduced maintenance compared to wood
• MBCI SSR Certified Installation

Metal panels are commonly selected for agricultural buildings because of their durability and ability to protect large structures over time.

 

Asphalt vs Metal for Barn Roof Replacement

The right roofing material depends on several factors:

• Condition of the existing roof
• Structural capacity of rafters and decking
• Steepness of the roof
• Intended use of the building
• Long-term maintenance expectations

Asphalt may be appropriate for smaller barns in good shape. Metal roofing is often preferred for larger barns requiring enhanced durability.

During your inspection, we assess the roof deck, rafters, and ventilation components to recommend the best solution for your specific structure.

What to Expect During a Barn Roof Replacement

Every barn roof replacement project begins with a professional inspection of the entire building.

Inspection & Assessment

We evaluate:

• Roof decking and plywood condition
• Rafters and structural support
• Existing flashing and ridge vents
• Evidence of leaks or water intrusion

Removal of Old Roofing Materials

If performing a full replacement, we carefully remove old shingles, cedar shake, or damaged metal panels to prepare the structure for installation.

Installation of New Roofing System

The new system may include:

• Synthetic underlayment
• Ice and water protection in vulnerable areas
• Proper flashing around roof penetrations
• Ridge vents where appropriate
• Secure fastening of shingles or steel panels

Proper installation is essential to protect the building from wind, snow, and moisture over the long term.

Protecting Agricultural Buildings for the Long Term

A barn roof protects more than the structure itself. It safeguards:

• Equipment
• Stored goods
• Livestock
• Feed and materials

Replacing an aging barn roof reduces risk of mold, rot, and water damage that can compromise the entire building.

Is Barn Roof Repair an Option?

In some cases, localized barn roof repair may be sufficient. If the structure is in good shape and damage is limited to small areas, targeted repair can extend the roof’s lifespan.

However, if aging materials are widespread or structural components are compromised, a full barn roof replacement is often the safer long-term investment.

Schedule a Barn Roof Inspection

If you’re considering barn roof replacement or want to evaluate the condition of your existing barn roof, contact Russell Quality Roofing for a professional inspection.

We provide honest assessments and clear recommendations based on the condition of your structure and the demands of Inland Northwest weather.

Contact us today to schedule your evaluation and protect your barn for years to come.