Why Cedar & Pine Shakes Deteriorate in Alberta
Natural wood shakes are among the most aesthetically appealing roofing materials available — but they’re also among the most vulnerable to Alberta’s climate. Here’s what works against them year after year:
UV Radiation
Intense summer sun bleaches and degrades wood fibres, causing surface brittleness and cracking
Freeze-Thaw Cycles
Moisture trapped in wood expands and contracts repeatedly each season, splitting shakes
Moisture & Rain
Untreated wood absorbs water, accelerating rot, warping, and structural decay
Biological Growth
Algae, moss, lichen, and mould take root in damp wood, creating additional surface damage
Wind & Hail
Physical impacts break down the outer protective layer of shakes
Without treatment, most cedar and pine shake roofs in Alberta age far faster than their potential lifespan — requiring full replacement years ahead of schedule.
GoNano Wood Saver — How It Works
The GoNano Wood Saver treatment uses advanced nano-technology to penetrate deep into wood fibres — not just coating the surface, but protecting from the inside out.
Unlike traditional sealers and stains that sit on top of the wood and eventually peel or flake, GoNano’s penetrating formula bonds at a molecular level, creating a breathable, long-lasting barrier that repels water, resists UV damage, and slows biological growth.
Key Product Properties:
- Penetrating nano-formula — bonds to wood at the fibre level, not just on the surface
- Hydrophobic barrier — water beads and runs off rather than soaking in
- UV-resistant protection — significantly reduces sun-related fading and surface degradation
- Breathable application — allows moisture vapour to escape, preventing internal wood rot
- Anti-microbial properties — inhibits the growth of algae, moss, and mould
- Natural appearance — maintains the organic, textured look of cedar and pine shakes
Treatment Options — Which Plan Is Right for Your Shakes?
Like our shingle protection program, we offer multiple GoNano Wood Saver treatment tiers based on the current condition of your cedar or pine shake roof. Our certified technicians will inspect your roof and recommend the right plan.
| Wood Saver Defend | Best for newer or recently installed shake roofs in good structural condition. Applied proactively to lock in the wood’s natural strength before Alberta’s climate takes its toll. Includes full hydrophobic seal and UV treatment. |
| Wood Saver Restore | Designed for shakes showing early to moderate signs of weathering — surface greying, minor cracking, or early moisture absorption. Cleans, conditions, and re-seals the wood to restore protective performance and slow further aging. |
| Wood Saver Renew | For older shake roofs still structurally sound but visibly weathered. This intensive treatment deeply penetrates deteriorated wood fibres, stabilizing the shake structure and providing a new waterproof, UV-resistant barrier. |
Not sure which option your shakes need? Our team provides a free roof inspection and will recommend the right treatment — no pressure, no guesswork.
Benefits of Treating Your Cedar & Pine Shakes
Investing in GoNano Wood Saver treatment today protects your roof from costly repairs and premature replacement down the road.
| ✔ Extended shake lifespan | ✔ Preserves natural wood appearance |
| ✔ Reduced maintenance costs | ✔ Breathable formula prevents interior trapping |
| ✔ Moisture and rot prevention | ✔ One treatment — years of protection |
| ✔ UV fade protection | ✔ Backed by GoNano warranty |
| ✔ Mould & algae resistance | ✔ Eco-friendly, non-toxic formula |
Our Simple 4-Step Protection Process
1
Roof Inspection
We assess the condition of your cedar or pine shakes, identify vulnerable areas, and document any existing damage.
2
Treatment Recommendation
Based on your shake age and condition, we recommend the appropriate Wood Saver tier and provide a transparent, no-obligation quote.
3
Professional Application
Our certified technicians apply the GoNano Wood Saver system carefully, ensuring full penetration and even coverage across all shake surfaces.
4
Long-Term Protection
Your shakes are now shielded from moisture, UV damage, biological growth, and freeze-thaw deterioration. We provide warranty documentation and follow-up support.
Ideal For
Residential homes with cedar or pine shake roofing
Older shake roofs approaching mid-life that still have structural integrity
Heritage or character homes where replacing shakes with alternatives isn't desirable
Vacation properties, cabins, and secondary homes in mountain or rural Alberta
Cedar or pine shake siding and exterior cladding
Frequently Asked Questions — Cedar & Pine Shakes
How long does the GoNano Wood Saver treatment last on shakes?
Treatment longevity depends on the shake condition at the time of application, local environmental exposure, and which tier is applied. Our technicians will provide realistic performance expectations and warranty terms during your free inspection.
Will treatment change the look or colour of my shakes?
No — the GoNano Wood Saver formula is designed to maintain the natural appearance of cedar and pine. It does not leave a film, gloss, or artificial look. Shakes retain their organic texture and colouring.
Can you treat shakes that have already started to grey or weather?
Yes. Depending on the level of weathering, the Wood Saver Restore or Renew treatment can condition and re-seal weathered shakes, slowing further deterioration and restoring surface protection.
Is the treatment safe for my home and landscaping?
GoNano Wood Saver is a non-toxic, environmentally responsible product. It does not contain harmful chemicals that could affect your lawn, gardens, or surrounding surfaces.
Protect Your Cedar & Pine Shakes Before Damage Sets In
Alberta’s climate is tough on natural wood. The longer cedar and pine shakes go untreated, the faster they deteriorate. A single GoNano Wood Saver treatment can add years of life to your roof — at a fraction of the cost of replacement.