Cedar shake roofing is a popular and aesthetically appealing roofing material made from split pieces of cedar wood. Known for its natural beauty, durability, and insulation properties, cedar shake roofing can be a great choice for homeowners looking to enhance the look of their property while ensuring long-term protection.

1. What is Cedar Shake Roofing?

Cedar shake roofing is made from high-quality cedar wood, often from species such as Western Red Cedar or Northern White Cedar. The shakes are hand-split, giving them a more rustic and textured appearance compared to machine-cut shingles. They are thicker and more durable than regular cedar shingles, which makes them an attractive option for many homeowners.

2. Benefits of Cedar Shake Roofing:

• Aesthetic Appeal: Cedar shake roofs are known for their timeless, natural beauty. The distinct texture of the shakes gives the roof a rustic, classic look that can complement a wide variety of architectural styles.

• Durability and Longevity: Cedar shakes are naturally resistant to the elements, including rain, wind, and UV rays. When properly maintained, cedar shake roofs can last 30 years or more. The thickness and natural oils in the wood help protect it from rot, insects, and weathering.

• Energy Efficiency: Cedar shake roofs provide excellent insulation, helping to regulate temperatures in your home. This can lead to reduced heating and cooling costs, especially in areas with extreme temperatures.

• Environmentally Friendly: Cedar is a renewable resource, and many cedar shake roofs are sourced from sustainably managed forests, making them an eco-friendly roofing option.

• Sound Dampening: The thickness and structure of cedar shakes help reduce outside noise, providing a quieter living space.

• Fire Resistance: Cedar shakes are naturally fire-resistant due to their high moisture content. Additionally, modern treatments can enhance their fire resistance, making them safer in areas prone to wildfires.

3. Cedar Shake Roofing Installation:

The installation of cedar shake roofing requires a skilled roofer due to the unique nature of the material. Here’s an overview of the typical installation process:

• Roof Deck Preparation: The roof deck must be in good condition before installing cedar shakes. Any damaged decking will be replaced to ensure a secure and solid base for the shakes.

• Underlayment: A layer of underlayment, typically a felt or synthetic membrane, is installed to provide additional waterproofing and protect the roof deck.

• Installation of Shakes: The cedar shakes are laid starting from the bottom edge of the roof, overlapping each other as they go up. Each shake is nailed into place, with care taken to ensure that the shakes are aligned properly and securely fastened. The shakes are arranged in a staggered pattern to enhance the roof’s water-shedding abilities.

• Flashing: Flashing is installed around roof penetrations such as chimneys, skylights, and vents to prevent water infiltration.

• Ridge Caps: Cedar shakes are also used to install ridge caps at the peak of the roof. This adds a finished look while helping to prevent water from entering at the ridge.

4. Maintenance of Cedar Shake Roofing:

While cedar shake roofs are durable, they do require regular maintenance to ensure they continue performing well and to extend their lifespan:

• Cleaning: Moss, algae, and dirt can accumulate on cedar shakes over time, especially in damp climates. It’s important to regularly clean the roof to prevent the buildup of these elements. This can be done using a soft-bristled brush or a low-pressure power washer.

• Re-sealing: Cedar shake roofs may need to be re-sealed every few years to protect them from the elements. A good sealant helps maintain the wood’s water resistance and prevents it from drying out or cracking.

• Repairs: Over time, some shakes may crack or become loose. It’s important to replace damaged shakes promptly to prevent further issues. Since cedar shakes are naturally resistant to rot, they can be easily replaced with new ones without requiring the entire roof to be redone.

• Inspection: Regular inspections by a professional roofer are essential to catch early signs of damage, such as loose shakes, water damage, or insect infestations. This helps prevent more extensive damage down the line.

5. Cost of Cedar Shake Roofing:

Cedar shake roofs are generally more expensive than other roofing materials like asphalt shingles due to the cost of the material and the specialized labor required for installation. However, their longevity and aesthetic appeal can make them a good investment over time. Keep in mind that maintenance costs should also be factored in, as regular upkeep is necessary to keep the roof in good condition.

6. Cedar Shake Roofing Pros and Cons:

Pros:

• Natural, rustic beauty that enhances curb appeal.

• Long-lasting and durable when properly maintained.

• Excellent insulation and energy efficiency.

• Eco-friendly and sustainable.

• Good sound-dampening properties.

• Fire-resistant with proper treatment.

Cons:

• Higher initial cost compared to other materials.

• Requires regular maintenance to prevent rot and damage.

• Susceptible to moss, algae, and mold buildup if not properly maintained.

• May need to be treated periodically for fire resistance.

• Not as readily available in some areas as other roofing materials.

7. Environmental Considerations:

Many cedar shake roofs are sourced from sustainably managed forests, ensuring that the wood used is harvested in an environmentally responsible manner. When choosing cedar shake roofing, it’s important to ask about the source of the wood and look for certifications that indicate sustainable forestry practices, such as FSC (Forest Stewardship Council) certification.