Wood Shake Roof vs Shingles: Choosing the Right Roofing for Homes

Deciding between a wood shake roof and asphalt or composite shingles involves weighing longevity, cost, appearance, and maintenance. This guide compares performance, installation, safety, and long‑term value so homeowners can make informed choices for U.S. climates and building codes. Key differences include material type, lifespan, upfront cost, and fire resistance.

Feature	Wood Shake	Shingles (Asphalt/Composite)
Material	Cedar Or Other Hardwood Splits	Asphalt, Fiberglass, Or Composite
Lifespan	20–50+ Years With Care	15–30 Years Typical
Cost (Installed)	High	Low To Moderate
Maintenance	Higher (Cleaning, Treatments)	Lower
Fire Risk	High Unless Treated	Lower (Class A Options)

Comparison Overview

This section frames the tradeoffs between wood shake roofs and shingles across common homeowner priorities. Wood shakes offer distinct aesthetic value and potential longevity, while shingles deliver cost-efficiency and lower maintenance.

Materials And How They’re Made

Wood shakes are typically split from cedar, redwood, or other durable woods, producing a thicker, textured board that gives a rustic look. Shingles are manufactured from asphalt-saturated felt or fiberglass mat with mineral granules or as composite blends.

Manufacturing differences affect performance: shakes are thicker and less uniform, providing natural insulation and drainage channels, while shingles offer consistent sizing, easier overlap, and widespread availability.

Durability And Lifespan

A properly installed and maintained wood shake roof can last 20 to 50 years or more, depending on climate and maintenance, particularly in dry climates where rot and moss growth are minimal.

Asphalt and composite shingles typically last 15 to 30 years, with architectural shingles at the higher end and basic three-tab shingles on the lower end; technological improvements have increased shingle longevity and wind resistance.

Installation Complexity And Labor

Wood shakes require skilled installation because they are thicker, need specific spacing for ventilation, and often use hand‑split pieces for a proper fit. Installation labor is more intensive and specialized for shakes.

Shingle installation is faster and standardized, making it easier to find qualified installers and often reducing total project time and labor costs.

Cost Comparison

Upfront materials and installation costs for wood shakes are typically substantially higher than for asphalt shingles because of premium materials and specialized labor.

Long-term cost dynamics depend on maintenance and lifespan: shakes may justify higher initial costs if longevity and periodic treatments are maintained, while shingles deliver predictable, lower initial expenses and easier replacement cycles.

Maintenance And Repair Needs

Wood shakes require regular inspection for rot, insect damage, moss, and algae growth; periodic cleaning and treatments (e.g., preservatives or fire retardants) are common. Maintenance demands for shakes are higher but can extend life significantly.

Shingles need less frequent maintenance; typical tasks include replacing damaged shingles, ensuring flashing integrity, and cleaning gutters. Repairs are generally straightforward and less costly than for shakes.

Fire Resistance And Building Codes

Untreated wood shakes are combustible and may be restricted or require special treatments in wildfire-prone areas. Many jurisdictions require Class A or B rated roofing materials, which untreated shakes do not meet.

Shingles are available in Class A fire-rated varieties and are often the safer, code-compliant choice in high-risk zones; homeowners should check local code and insurance requirements before selecting shakes.

Energy Efficiency And Insulation

Wood shakes provide natural insulating qualities and can create ventilated air spaces that reduce heat transfer. Shakes can help moderate roof temperature in certain climates.

Modern shingles can incorporate reflective granules or cool-roof technology to improve energy performance. Overall energy impact depends on underlayment, attic ventilation, and insulation rather than just the roof covering.

Aesthetics And Curb Appeal

Wood shakes offer a distinctive, textured, and upscale appearance often associated with historic or rustic architecture. Homebuyers seeking character and natural materials frequently favor shakes for curb appeal.

Shingles provide a wide range of styles, colors, and profiles, including architectural shingles that mimic the look of slate or wood at lower cost. Shingles deliver design flexibility for many home styles.

Environmental Impact And Sustainability

Wood shakes are a renewable resource when sourced from sustainably managed forests, and they are biodegradable at end of life. However, treatments and preservatives can affect recyclability and environmental footprint.

Asphalt shingles are petroleum-based and more difficult to recycle, though recycling programs are growing. Composite shingles may include recycled content, offering a compromise between performance and environmental concerns.

Insurance And Resale Considerations

Insurance premiums may be higher for wood shake roofs because of increased fire risk, especially in wildfire-prone states. Homeowners should consult insurers and local ordinances before installing shakes.

Shingle roofs usually result in standard insurance rates and wider buyer acceptance, potentially simplifying resale. However, a well-maintained shake roof can be a selling point in the right market segment.

Regional Climate Suitability

Wood shakes perform best in dry, temperate climates where moisture and rot are less prevalent. They are less suitable in humid coastal zones or areas with heavy snowfall unless carefully maintained.

Shingles adapt to a broader range of climates and are engineered for wind, freeze-thaw cycles, and heavy rain, making them a versatile choice across the U.S.

Cost-Benefit Summary Table

Factor	When Shakes Make Sense	When Shingles Make Sense
Budget	Not Ideal	Preferred
Aesthetics	Preferred For Rustic/High-End Looks	Good Variety Of Styles
Maintenance	Higher Maintenance	Lower Maintenance
Fire Risk	Higher (Unless Treated)	Lower

How To Choose Between Wood Shake And Shingles

Choosing depends on priorities: aesthetics, budget, climate, and long-term plans. For historic homes or owners prioritizing natural appearance and willing to commit to maintenance, shakes can be the right choice.

For budget-conscious homeowners, those in wildfire zones, or those preferring lower upkeep, shingles are generally the practical option. Consider lifespan, warranties, and local building codes when deciding.

Questions To Ask A Roofer

Homeowners should ask prospective contractors about experience with the chosen material, local code compliance, fire ratings, warranty coverage, and maintenance recommendations. Request references and examples of completed projects for both shakes and shingles.

Also verify installation details such as underlayment type, ventilation strategy, flashing materials, and whether treated shakes (fire retardant or preservative) will be used if selecting wood.

Cost Examples And Financial Considerations

Typical installed asphalt shingle costs range widely depending on product quality, but are usually significantly lower per square foot than wood shakes; shakes can cost two to three times more in many regions.

Factor in lifecycle costs: shakes may need periodic treatments and more frequent repairs, while shingles often require replacement sooner. Homeowners should calculate 20- to 30-year costs rather than only initial outlay.

Maintenance Checklist For Each Roof Type

For wood shakes: inspection for rot and insects, moss and algae removal, application of preservatives or fire-retardant treatments where allowed, and replacing damaged shakes. Regular maintenance extends longevity.

For shingles: inspect for lifted or missing shingles, check flashing and valleys, maintain gutters, and address any attic ventilation issues. Repairs tend to be straightforward and less time-consuming.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Wood Shakes Worth The Extra Cost?

They can be, when aesthetic value, potential longevity, and appropriate climate align with homeowner priorities. However, they require higher maintenance and may increase insurance costs.

Can Shingles Mimic The Look Of Shakes?

Architectural and premium composite shingles can mimic wood texture and depth, offering a similar visual impact at lower cost and maintenance. They are a popular compromise.

Do Building Codes Restrict Wood Shakes?

Many local codes restrict or require treatments for wood shakes in wildfire zones. Always verify local code and HOA rules before selecting shakes.

Final Decision Guidance

Choosing between wood shake roofs and shingles comes down to balancing appearance, budget, climate risk, and maintenance commitment. Shakes excel in character and natural insulation, while shingles provide affordability, versatility, and lower upkeep.

Homeowners should obtain multiple contractor bids, ask for lifecycle cost estimates, and confirm insurance and code implications before proceeding with either material.