Timber Traditions: Understanding the Difference between Cedar Shakes and Cedar Shingles

As homeowners in the Twin Cities consider their options for roofing materials, cedar shakes and cedar shingles often emerge as popular choices due to their natural beauty, durability, and longevity. However, it’s essential to understand the differences between these two materials to make an informed decision that best suits your home’s needs and aesthetic preferences. In this guide, we’ll explore the distinctions between cedar shakes and cedar shingles, helping Twin Cities homeowners navigate their roofing options with confidence.

Cedar Shakes

Cedar shakes are hand-split or machine-sawn wooden roofing materials typically made from cedar wood. They have a rustic, textured appearance with a rough, uneven surface that adds character and charm to a home’s exterior. Cedar shakes are thicker than cedar shingles and are available in various sizes, including medium, heavy, and jumbo.

Characteristics of Cedar Shakes

• • Texture: Cedar shakes have a rough, textured surface that adds a rustic aesthetic to a home’s exterior. The natural irregularities of cedar wood give shakes a unique and authentic look that many homeowners find appealing.
  • Thickness: Cedar shakes are thicker than cedar shingles, ranging from 1/2 inch to 3/4 inch in thickness. This extra thickness provides added durability and longevity, making cedar shakes a popular choice for homeowners seeking a long-lasting roofing material.
  • Installation: Cedar shakes are typically installed using a technique known as “cedar shake installation,” which involves overlapping individual shakes to create a weatherproof barrier. This installation method requires skilled craftsmanship and attention to detail to ensure proper alignment and sealing.

Cedar Shingles

Cedar shingles, like cedar shakes, are made from cedar wood and offer a timeless, natural look for residential roofing applications. However, unlike shakes, cedar shingles are precision-cut to achieve a uniform thickness and smooth surface. Cedar shingles are available in various shapes and sizes, including #1, #2, and #3 grades.

Characteristics of Cedar Shingles

• • Uniformity: Cedar shingles are precision-cut to achieve a uniform thickness and smooth surface. This consistency gives cedar shingles a clean and polished appearance that appeals to homeowners seeking a more refined aesthetic for their roofing.
  • Thickness: Cedar shingles are thinner than cedar shakes, typically ranging from 3/8 inch to 1/2 inch in thickness. While they may be less durable than shakes, cedar shingles still offer excellent protection against the elements when properly installed and maintained.
  • Installation: Cedar shingles are installed using a similar technique to cedar shakes, with each shingle overlapped to create a weatherproof barrier. However, due to their thinner profile, cedar shingles may be more susceptible to damage during installation and require careful handling.

Choosing Between Cedar Shakes and Cedar Shingles

When deciding between cedar shakes and cedar shingles for your Twin Cities home, consider the following factors:

• • Aesthetic Preferences: Do you prefer the rustic, textured look of cedar shakes, or the clean, uniform appearance of cedar shingles? Choose the option that best complements your home’s architectural style and personal taste.
  • Durability: Cedar shakes tend to be thicker and more durable than cedar shingles, making them better suited for harsh weather conditions and long-term performance. If longevity is a priority, cedar shakes may be the preferable choice.
  • Maintenance Requirements: Both cedar shakes and cedar shingles require regular maintenance, including periodic cleaning, staining, and sealing to protect against moisture damage and prolong their lifespan. Consider the maintenance requirements of each material before making your decision.
  • Budget: Cedar shakes are typically more expensive than cedar shingles due to their thicker profile and labor-intensive manufacturing process. If budget is a concern, cedar shingles may offer a more cost-effective option without sacrificing quality or aesthetics.

Contact Earth Friendly Builders for Expert Cedar Roofing Installation

If you’re a homeowner in the Twin Cities considering cedar shakes or cedar shingles for your roofing project, contact Earth Friendly Builders today. Our team specializes in environmentally sustainable building materials, including cedar roofing, and can help you choose the right option for your home. With our expert installation services, you can enjoy the timeless beauty and natural durability of cedar roofing while minimizing your environmental impact. Invest in the beauty and longevity of your home with Earth Friendly Builders.