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What Is a Cedar Shake Roof? A Complete Homeowner’s Guide
If you’ve ever admired a rustic, timeless-looking home and wondered about its roofing, you might have asked yourself: what is a cedar shake roof? Cedar shake roofs are crafted from natural cedar wood that is split or sawn into shingles. They’ve been used for centuries, prized for their durability, natural insulation properties, and beauty. While modern materials like asphalt shingles and metal roofing are common today, cedar shakes remain a distinctive option for homeowners who want a balance of performance and style.
This guide will explore everything you need to know—from how cedar shakes are made to their advantages, drawbacks, and long-term care—so you can decide if this roofing material is right for your home.
Understanding Cedar Shake Roofs
A cedar shake roof is built using shingles made from cedar wood, most often western red cedar or Alaskan yellow cedar. Unlike standard uniform shingles, shakes are typically split from logs, which gives them a more rugged, textured appearance. They differ from cedar shingles, which are smoother and more uniform because they’re sawn rather than split.
Shakes are thicker than shingles, which improves durability and creates a layered, dimensional look. When installed, they form a roof that is both strong and visually striking.
A Brief History of Cedar Shake Roofing
Cedar has been used as a roofing material for hundreds of years, particularly in North America where cedar trees are abundant. Early settlers relied on wood shakes because they were easy to produce by hand, splitting logs into usable roofing material.
Over time, cedar roofing became associated with craftsmanship and tradition. Many historic buildings, cabins, and coastal homes feature cedar shake roofs, and they continue to symbolize natural beauty and resilience even today.
Types of Cedar Used for Roofing
Two main types of cedar dominate the roofing market:
- Western Red Cedar
- Known for its reddish hue and natural oils that resist decay.
- Lightweight yet durable.
- Provides a classic, warm appearance.
- Alaskan Yellow Cedar
- Pale yellow to light brown color.
- Denser and stronger than red cedar.
- Extremely resistant to moisture and insects, making it popular in coastal climates.
Both offer strength and longevity, but the choice often depends on local availability and the visual style a homeowner prefers.
Cedar Shake vs. Cedar Shingle
It’s easy to confuse shakes with shingles, but there are important distinctions:
- Cedar Shingles – Smooth, uniform thickness, machine-cut, more precise lines.
- Cedar Shakes – Rougher, thicker, hand-split or machine-split, with a textured look.
Shakes generally last longer because of their thickness, but shingles provide a more polished, neat appearance.
How Cedar Shakes Are Made
The production process of cedar shakes determines their durability and look. There are two main cutting methods:
- Hand-Split Shakes – Produced by splitting logs along the grain, creating a rustic, uneven surface.
- Taper-Sawn Shakes – Cut with a saw, giving a smoother finish while retaining thickness.
Grades also matter. Premium shakes are made from straight-grain heartwood (the dense inner part of the log), while lower grades may include sapwood, which is less durable.
Advantages of a Cedar Shake Roof
Cedar shake roofs have stood the test of time for good reason. Their benefits include:
1. Natural Beauty
Cedar shakes age gracefully, starting with warm reddish-browns and eventually weathering to a silvery gray patina that many homeowners love.
2. Durability
When properly maintained, cedar shakes can last 30–50 years, sometimes longer in the right climate.
3. Insulation Value
Cedar is a natural insulator, helping homes stay warmer in winter and cooler in summer. This can improve energy efficiency.
4. Resistance to Wind and Impact
Thicker cedar shakes perform well in storms, resisting high winds and hail better than some thinner roofing materials.
5. Eco-Friendly Material
Cedar is biodegradable, renewable, and often harvested from sustainable forests.
Drawbacks to Consider
No roofing material is perfect, and cedar shakes come with some challenges:
- Maintenance Needs – They require periodic cleaning, treatment, and inspections to prevent moss, mold, or insect damage.
- Cost – Cedar shakes are more expensive than asphalt shingles, both in materials and installation.
- Fire Risk – Natural wood is combustible, though many shakes are treated with fire-resistant coatings.
- Moisture Sensitivity – Without care, cedar can absorb water, leading to swelling, warping, or rot.
How Long Does a Cedar Shake Roof Last?
The lifespan of a cedar shake roof varies widely depending on climate, installation quality, and maintenance. On average:
- 20–30 Years in humid, wet climates with limited upkeep.
- 30–50 Years in moderate climates with regular maintenance.
- 50+ Years possible in dry regions with expert installation and care.
Routine cleaning, removing debris, and applying protective treatments can extend its life significantly.
Maintenance Tips for Cedar Shake Roofs
Cedar shakes are an investment, and proper care ensures you get the most from them. Here are some best practices:
- Keep the Roof Clear – Remove leaves, pine needles, and other debris that trap moisture.
- Ensure Proper Ventilation – Good airflow prevents condensation and mold growth.
- Trim Overhanging Branches – Reduces shade and moss buildup.
- Apply Protective Treatments – Oils, fungicides, and water repellents can prolong the life of shakes.
- Inspect Annually – Look for cracked, curled, or missing shakes and replace them promptly.
Climate Considerations
Cedar shakes perform differently depending on the environment:
- Coastal Climates – Yellow cedar resists salty air and high humidity better.
- Dry Climates – Cedar holds up well, often lasting longest.
- Humid Regions – Regular treatment against moss, mildew, and rot is essential.
- Cold Climates – Cedar insulates well, but ice dam prevention is necessary.
The Installation Process
Installing a cedar shake roof requires skill and precision. Unlike asphalt shingles, shakes are not perfectly uniform, so roofers must carefully space and align them for a watertight finish. The process generally involves:
- Removing old roofing materials.
- Preparing the roof deck with underlayment.
- Laying cedar shakes with proper spacing to allow expansion and contraction.
- Staggering shakes for natural appearance and leak prevention.
- Finishing with ridge caps and flashing.
Because installation is more complex than other roof types, it’s best left to experienced professionals.
Cedar Shake Roof Cost
While exact pricing depends on region, roof size, and grade of material, cedar shakes are typically among the higher-cost roofing options. Factors that influence cost include:
- Type of Cedar (red vs. yellow).
- Shake Thickness.
- Fire-Resistant Treatments.
- Labor Intensity due to specialized installation.
Though the upfront cost is higher, the longevity and beauty often justify the investment for homeowners seeking curb appeal and natural character.
Cedar Shake Roof Styles
Cedar shakes can complement many architectural designs:
- Rustic Cabins – Their natural look blends into wooded environments.
- Coastal Homes – Weathered gray cedar is iconic for beachside cottages.
- Historic Restorations – Authentic to many traditional structures.
- Modern Builds – When paired with stone, glass, or metal, cedar provides warm contrast.
Fire Resistance in Cedar Shake Roofs
Because wood is combustible, many homeowners worry about fire risk. Fortunately, most modern cedar shakes can be pressure-treated with fire retardants. These treatments often meet local building codes in fire-prone areas, but it’s important to confirm before installation.
Environmental Impact
One reason cedar shakes remain popular is their sustainability. Unlike petroleum-based roofing materials, cedar is natural and biodegradable. When harvested responsibly from managed forests, cedar roofing is one of the more eco-friendly choices available. Additionally, cedar’s insulating properties reduce reliance on energy, lowering a home’s overall carbon footprint.
Comparing Cedar Shakes to Other Roofing Materials
To better understand their value, it’s useful to compare cedar shakes with alternatives:
- Asphalt Shingles – Less expensive, easier to install, but shorter lifespan.
- Metal Roofing – Long-lasting and low-maintenance, but lacks cedar’s natural look.
- Clay or Concrete Tile – Durable and stylish, but heavier and often more expensive.
- Slate – Very long-lasting, but significantly more costly and heavy.
Cedar shakes sit in the middle range: they provide more beauty and longevity than asphalt while being more affordable than slate or tile.
Common Myths About Cedar Shake Roofs
- Myth: Cedar shakes rot quickly.
Reality: With maintenance and proper ventilation, cedar can last decades. - Myth: They are too flammable to use.
Reality: Fire-retardant treatments make modern cedar shakes much safer. - Myth: They’re only for rustic homes.
Reality: Cedar shakes can be styled for both traditional and contemporary designs.
Signs Your Cedar Shake Roof Needs Attention
Even durable cedar needs care. Watch for:
- Cracked or curling shakes.
- Moss, algae, or mold growth.
- Discoloration from moisture retention.
- Loose or missing shakes after storms.
- Visible leaks inside the home.
Catching these early can prevent more costly repairs down the road.
Pros and Cons Recap
Pros:
- Natural beauty.
- Longevity with care.
- Insulation benefits.
- Eco-friendly material.
Cons:
- Higher upfront cost.
- Maintenance requirements.
- Fire risk without treatment.
- Vulnerable in very wet climates if neglected.
Conclusion
So, what is a cedar shake roof? It’s a roofing system made from natural cedar wood, either split or sawn, that combines durability, insulation, and a one-of-a-kind appearance. Cedar shakes have been trusted for centuries, and while they require more care than some modern materials, their beauty and long lifespan make them a worthy investment.
For homeowners seeking a roof that weathers into a timeless gray, resists the elements with proper care, and adds value to their property, cedar shakes remain a top choice. They represent not only a functional covering but also a statement of tradition, sustainability, and style. 440-235-3124
