Not long ago, I was looking at a beautiful home in Nichols Hills with an original wood shake roof that had been part of the home’s character for decades.
From the street, the roof looked fairly good.
Once we got on top of it, the story changed.
Several shakes were cracked. Others had begun curling. Some areas had significant weathering from years of Oklahoma sun, hail, and wind exposure. The homeowner wasn’t calling because of a leak. They were calling because their insurance company had started asking questions about the roof’s age and condition.
That conversation is becoming more common throughout Nichols Hills.
Many of the homes in Nichols Hills were built with premium materials and unique architectural details that still stand out today. Wood shake roofing was often selected because of its natural appearance and upscale character. While wood shake can be beautiful, it also presents challenges as the roof ages.
Today, homeowners are balancing three important concerns:
• Maintaining curb appeal
• Keeping insurance coverage affordable
• Protecting their home from Oklahoma weather
Understanding how those three factors work together can help homeowners make better decisions before a roofing emergency occurs.
Why Wood Shake Roofs Were So Popular
For many years, wood shake roofing represented a premium roofing system.
The material provided:
• Natural beauty
• Excellent texture and dimension
• High-end architectural appearance
• Strong curb appeal
In neighborhoods like Nichols Hills, these characteristics matched the custom design of many homes.
The problem is that every roofing material has a lifespan.
Wood shake roofs require ongoing maintenance and eventually reach a point where repairs become less practical than replacement.
How Oklahoma Weather Affects Wood Shake Roofing
Oklahoma is one of the most demanding environments for any roofing system.
A roof in Nichols Hills may experience:
• Hailstorms
• Straight-line winds
• Extreme summer temperatures
• Heavy rainfall
• Winter ice events
• UV exposure year-round
Wood naturally expands and contracts as temperatures change.
Over time, this can lead to:
• Cracking
• Splitting
• Curling
• Moisture intrusion
• Deterioration of underlying components
While newer roofing materials are designed to better handle these conditions, aging wood shake roofs often become increasingly vulnerable.
Insurance Companies Are Paying Closer Attention
One of the biggest issues facing Nichols Hills homeowners today involves insurance coverage.
Insurance carriers have become much more selective when evaluating older roofing systems.
In many cases, homeowners are seeing:
• Increased premiums
• Roof inspections requested by carriers
• Actual Cash Value coverage instead of Replacement Cost Value
• Restrictions on older roofing systems
• Requests for replacement before policy renewal
Many homeowners assume their roof is fully covered until they receive a notice from their insurance company.
By that point, options may be limited.
This is one reason we encourage homeowners to understand the condition of their roof before renewal season arrives.
Common Problems Found on Older Wood Shake Roofs
When we inspect aging wood shake roofs, we frequently discover issues that aren’t visible from the ground.
Some of the most common include:
Cracked Shakes
Years of sun exposure can dry out wood and create cracks that allow moisture penetration.
Curling Shakes
As wood ages, edges often begin to curl, creating pathways for water intrusion.
Moss and Organic Growth
Shaded areas may trap moisture and encourage biological growth.
Fastener Issues
Nails and fastening systems can deteriorate over time.
Flashing Failures
Flashing around chimneys, valleys, skylights, and walls often becomes the first point of water entry.
When Repairs Make Sense
Not every wood shake roof requires immediate replacement.
Repairs may be appropriate when:
• Damage is isolated
• Most of the roof remains in good condition
• Underlying decking is sound
• The roof still has useful life remaining
The key is identifying issues early before they spread.
When Replacement Becomes the Better Investment
Replacement is often the better option when:
• Repairs become frequent
• Insurance concerns continue increasing
• Storm damage is widespread
• The roof has reached the end of its service life
• Homeowners want lower maintenance requirements
A replacement may cost more initially but often provides long-term savings through reduced maintenance and improved durability.
For help planning the next step, review our Nichols Hills wood shake replacement service and roof inspection service. Bring the inspection findings, material choices and proposed scope together before deciding on repairs or replacement.
Modern Roofing Options for Nichols Hills Homes
One concern we hear frequently is:
“I don’t want my house to lose its character.”
Fortunately, today’s roofing products offer several excellent options.
CertainTeed Belmont
Belmont shingles provide a high-end appearance that complements luxury homes while offering modern performance.
Class 4 Impact Resistant Shingles
These products are designed to better withstand hail impacts and may qualify for insurance discounts.
Stone-Coated Steel Roofing
Stone-coated steel combines the appearance of traditional roofing materials with the strength of metal.
Standing Seam Metal Roofing
Standing seam systems provide exceptional longevity and clean architectural lines.
Many Nichols Hills homeowners are surprised by how attractive modern roofing systems have become.
The Importance of Proper Installation
Material selection is only part of the equation.
A roofing system performs best when installed correctly.
At Top View Roofing, our installations include:
• Six nails per shingle
• Ice and water shield in valleys
• Synthetic underlayment
• Starter strips
• Drip edge
• Proper ventilation systems
• Code-compliant installation practices
These components work together to create a complete roofing system.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are wood shake roofs still insurable?
Some are, but many insurance companies are becoming more restrictive as roofs age.
Can a wood shake roof be repaired?
Yes, depending on the condition and extent of damage.
What replacement option looks most similar to wood shake?
Certain premium architectural products and stone-coated steel systems can provide a similar appearance.
Will impact-resistant shingles lower my insurance premium?
Some insurance carriers offer discounts, although coverage varies by company.
How often should a roof be inspected?
At least every one to two years and after major storms.
Final Thoughts
Nichols Hills is known for beautiful homes and distinctive architecture. Roofing decisions should protect both the appearance and value of those properties.
Whether you’re dealing with an aging wood shake roof, insurance concerns, storm damage, or simply planning for the future, understanding your options can help you make a confident decision.
If you have questions about the condition of your roof, a professional inspection is often the best place to start.
Top View Roofing
405-543-2920
Get an instant estimate:
https://lead.topviewroofing.com/discount_roofing
Serving Nichols Hills, Oklahoma City, Bethany, Yukon, Edmond, Moore, Norman, Newcastle, and surrounding communities.
