Rustic Wood Roofing Finish: How to Get That Authentic Look & Lasting Protection

Wood roofing—especially cedar shake or shingle—has timeless appeal. But if you're aiming for that rich, weathered, rustic look, it's not just about choosing the right material. It’s about applying the right finish.

This guide walks you through how to apply a rustic wood finish for your roof that looks beautiful and performs in Colorado’s and Georgia’s extreme weather conditions.

Why Apply a Rustic Wood Finish?

• Enhances natural wood texture

• Improves weather resistance

• Extends roof lifespan

• Delivers that aged, country-style aesthetic

Whether you're in the dry climate of Colorado or the humid zones of Georgia, a proper finish can make or break the performance of a wood roof.

Step-by-Step: How to Apply a Rustic Finish on Wood Roofing

1. Choose the Right Wood Roofing Material

For the best rustic appearance and durability:

• Use Certi-Split® cedar shakes for a rough, hand-split surface

• Consider Alaskan Yellow Cedar for a lighter tone and good resistance to decay

Avoid using smooth-sawn products if you want that rugged look.

2. Prepare the Wood Surface

Before applying any finish:

• Let cedar shakes or shingles dry properly (especially in humid areas)

• Remove dirt, sap, or factory coatings

• Sand lightly to open the grain, if needed (for shingles, not split shakes)

3. Choose the Right Finish

Look for:

• Oil-based stains or semi-transparent wood preservatives

• Products that allow the wood to breathe and avoid trapping moisture

Avoid film-forming finishes like paint or thick acrylic sealers. These will flake over time and don't suit rustic looks.

Recommended color tones:

• Driftwood gray

• Barnwood brown

• Weathered cedar

4. Apply the Finish

• Use a brush for control or a low-pressure sprayer for speed

• Coat all sides of the shake or shingle if possible, especially in high-moisture areas like Georgia

• Apply finish in dry, mild weather (avoid extreme heat or humidity)

5. Recoat & Maintain

Expect to reapply the finish every:

• 3–5 years in Colorado (dry sun exposure)

• 2–3 years in Georgia (high humidity and mold potential)

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Applying finish on wet or dirty surfaces

• Using solid paint or clear sealers that trap moisture

• Not finishing cut edges or undersides of shakes

• Skipping maintenance checks every couple of years

FAQ: Wood Roofing Finish

What’s the best stain for cedar shake roofs?

Use a penetrating, oil-based wood preservative or stain that resists UV damage and mildew. Look for products labeled specifically for cedar or wood roofing.

Can I use a pressure washer before applying the finish?

You can, but use low pressure (under 1,200 PSI). High-pressure washing can damage wood fibers and reduce lifespan.

Should I use a fire retardant with wood roofing?

In wildfire-prone areas like Colorado, yes. Use fire-retardant-treated wood shakes that meet Class B or C requirements, or better, Class A when installed with a specific underlayment system.

Call Roof Nuts for Help

Need help restoring or applying a rustic finish to your wood roof?

Roof Nuts CO (Colorado): 303-276-2403
Roof Nuts GA (Georgia): 404-476-6851

We work with premium cedar roofing products and apply finishes designed to last.

🔗 Get your free estimate today