What Is a Cedar Shake Roof: Benefits, Types, and Maintenance

Cedar shake roofs are a traditional roofing option prized for natural beauty, durability, and insulating properties. This article explains what a cedar shake roof is, explores types and installation methods, outlines costs and maintenance, and offers guidance for homeowners considering this classic roofing material.

Feature	Overview
Material	Cedar wood, typically Western Red Cedar or Alaskan Yellow Cedar
Appearance	Rustic, textured planks with variable widths and thicknesses
Lifespan	25–50+ years with proper maintenance
Cost	Higher upfront cost than asphalt; varies by grade and installation
Maintenance	Periodic cleaning, staining or sealing, and inspections

What Is A Cedar Shake Roof?

A cedar shake roof is made from split cedar wood shakes rather than sawn shingles. Shakes Are Split From Logs To Create A Rough, Rustic Texture that differs from the smoother profile of sawn cedar shingles. Traditionally hand-split, modern shakes may be machine-split to maintain a more consistent size and thickness.

How Cedar Shakes Differ From Cedar Shingles

Cedar shakes are thicker and have a more rugged, textured surface compared to cedar shingles, which are sawn for a uniform appearance. Shakes Provide Greater Insulation And A Distinctive Aesthetic, while shingles tend to be thinner, lighter, and offer a cleaner look suited to some architectural styles.

Common Types Of Cedar Used

Western Red Cedar and Alaskan Yellow Cedar are the most common species for shakes. Western Red Cedar Is Popular For Its Warm Color And Natural Decay Resistance, while Alaskan Yellow Cedar is denser and more weather resistant but usually more expensive.

Grades And Sizes Of Cedar Shakes

Cedar shakes are graded by appearance and durability, commonly labeled as #1, #2, or Premium (or Clear) grades. Higher Grades Have Fewer Knots And Longer Expected Lifespans. Sizes typically range from 16 to 24 inches in length with varied thicknesses, often 3/8 to 1 inch at the butt.

Benefits Of A Cedar Shake Roof

Cedar shake roofs offer several advantages: natural beauty, insulation, and longevity when properly maintained. They Also Provide Natural Resistance To Rot And Insects due to cedar’s oils and cellular structure. Additionally, cedar shakes age to a pleasing silver-gray patina if left untreated.

Energy Efficiency And Insulation

Cedar has natural insulating properties that can reduce heat transfer through the roof. When Combined With Proper Ventilation, Cedar Shakes Can Improve Energy Efficiency by reducing cooling loads in hot months and retaining warmth in winter.

Architectural Styles That Suit Cedar Shakes

Cedar shakes complement Craftsman, Colonial, Tudor, Cape Cod, and rustic cabin styles. Their Textured Appearance Enhances Historic And Natural Designs, making them a preferred choice for homeowners seeking traditional charm and character.

Installation Process And Best Practices

Cedar shake roofing requires experienced installers familiar with wood roofing practices. Key steps include underlayment selection, correct nailing patterns, starter course setup, and proper spacing for attic ventilation. Proper Installation Is Critical To Maximize Lifespan And Prevent Water Intrusion.

Underlayment And Flashing

High-quality felt or synthetic underlayment and durable flashing at chimneys, valleys, and eaves are essential. Modern Synthetic Underlayments Offer Improved Moisture Resistance While Allowing The Roof To Breathe.

Nailing, Spacing, And Securement

Cedar shakes are typically nailed with stainless steel or copper nails to avoid corrosion. Fasteners should be placed correctly to prevent splitting, and shakes must be spaced to account for shrinkage. Incorrect Nailing Or Tight Butting Can Lead To Leaks And Shorter Service Life.

Cost Factors And Budgeting

Cedar shake roofs have higher upfront costs than asphalt shingles due to material price and labor intensity. Typical factors influencing cost include grade, species, roof complexity, and geographic labor rates. Homeowners Should Budget For Periodic Maintenance Costs Along With Installation.

Maintenance Requirements

Routine maintenance extends the life of cedar shake roofs and includes cleaning debris, removing moss and algae, and checking for damaged shakes. Applying A Preservative Or Stain Every Few Years Can Protect The Wood And Maintain Appearance.

Cleaning And Moss Control

Soft washing with low-pressure cleaners and appropriate wood-safe detergents removes biological growth without damaging shakes. Zinc or copper strips near the ridge can reduce moss accumulation. Avoid Pressure Washing, Which Can Erode The Wood Fibers.

Repairs And Replacement Of Damaged Shakes

Localized repairs involve replacing individual shakes and resealing flashings as needed. Timely Replacement Of Damaged Or Split Shakes Prevents Water Entry And Structural Damage.

Expected Lifespan And Weather Performance

A well-maintained cedar shake roof typically lasts 25–50 years, depending on climate and maintenance. In dry, temperate regions, longevity leans higher. Extreme Weather, High Humidity, Or Persistent Shade Can Reduce Lifespan by accelerating rot and biological growth.

Fire Risk And Code Considerations

Cedar is combustible, so fire rating and local building codes affect whether shakes are permitted. Treatments can improve fire resistance, and some municipalities require Class B or A fire ratings for wood roofing. Check Local Codes And Insurance Requirements Before Choosing Cedar Shakes.

Environmental Impact And Sustainability

Cedar shakes are a renewable, natural material and are biodegradable at end of life. Sustainably harvested cedar with Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) certification reduces environmental impact. Using Properly Sourced Cedar Can Be A Sustainable Choice Compared To Nonrenewable Materials.

Insurance And Resale Considerations

Insurance premiums may be higher for wood roofs due to perceived fire risk. However, cedar’s curb appeal can add resale value if the roof is well maintained. Documenting Maintenance And Any Fire-Resistant Treatments Helps With Insurance And Selling.

Choosing A Contractor

Select contractors with specific experience installing cedar shakes and verifiable references. Ask about material source, installation details, warranty, and maintenance advice. A Qualified Installer Ensures Proper Ventilation, Flashing, And Fastening To Avoid Common Problems.

Frequently Asked Questions About Cedar Shakes

How Often Should Cedar Shakes Be Inspected? Homeowners should inspect wood roofs annually and after major storms. Annual Inspections Catch Small Issues Before They Become Costly Repairs.

Can Cedar Shakes Be Treated For Fire Resistance? Yes, fire-retardant treatments and Class-rated underlayments can improve performance, but local acceptance varies. Consult Local Code Officials And Insurers Before Treating Or Installing.

Is It Worth Replacing Asphalt With Cedar Shakes? Replacing asphalt with cedar can increase curb appeal and insulation but comes with higher costs and maintenance. Homeowners Should Weigh Aesthetic Value Against Long-Term Care Responsibilities.

Cost-Benefit Summary Table

Aspect	Benefit	Consideration
Appearance	High aesthetic and resale appeal	Requires upkeep to maintain look
Durability	25–50+ years with care	Shorter in wet/shady climates
Cost	Premium look	Higher upfront and maintenance costs
Environmental	Renewable and biodegradable	Source certification recommended

Final Tips For Homeowners

When considering a cedar shake roof, evaluate climate, budget, maintenance willingness, and local codes. Select High-Quality Materials And An Experienced Installer To Maximize Performance, and plan for periodic inspections and treatments to protect the investment.