There’s an undeniable allure to cedar shake roofing. Its rustic charm, combined with natural durability, has made it a sought-after roofing material for homeowners seeking both aesthetics and performance. Whether you’re renovating a historic home, crafting a new rustic retreat, or simply drawn to the timeless beauty of wood, finding local experts in cedar shake roofing is essential.
Beyond its visually arresting aesthetics, this roofing material offers a suite of advantages that make it a worthy investment for discerning homeowners. Cedar roofing, with its natural properties, ensures that your home doesn’t just look good, but also stands strong against various elements.
Dive into the world of cedar shake roofing and discover how Roofing Nation can transform your home’s roof into a work of art and protection.
What Are Cedar Shake Roofings?
Cedar shake roofing is a distinct and timeless roofing choice that melds aesthetics with functionality. It’s rooted in North America’s architectural history and has been used for centuries. But what exactly are cedar shake roofings?
Cedar shakes are thick, rough-cut wooden shingles made from split logs, primarily from the cedar tree. Unlike traditional wooden shingle roofs that are sawn on both sides and have a uniform appearance, cedar shakes retain a more rustic, natural look due to their textured, uneven surface.
Key Characteristics and Benefits
- Natural Beauty: Cedar shakes offer a rustic charm that can be both elegant and rugged. Over time, cedar weathers to a distinguished silver-gray hue, adding to its visual appeal.
- Durability: Cedar is naturally resistant to harsh weather conditions, insects, and even UV rays. With proper maintenance, cedar shake roofs can last several decades.
- Insulation: Cedar wood provides natural insulation. A cedar roof can help regulate indoor temperatures, potentially reducing heating and cooling costs.
- Eco-friendly: Being a natural material, cedar shakes are biodegradable. Furthermore, cedar trees are a renewable resource, making cedar shake roofing an environmentally conscious choice.
- Unique Variations: No two cedar shakes are identical. This means that each cedar roof is unique in its texture and pattern, giving homes a distinctive and personalized touch.
- Weather Resistance: Cedar contains natural oils that act as preservatives, enhancing its resistance to moisture and decay. This makes cedar shake roofs especially suitable for areas with varying weather patterns.
Types of Cedar Shake Roofs
Cedar shake roofs have been a favorite among homeowners for their natural beauty and durability. But not all cedar shakes are created equal. The method of cutting and crafting the cedar wood can significantly affect the look, texture, and application of the shakes. Let’s delve into the different types of roofing made of cedar shake:
1. Straight Grain Shakes
These are considered premium shakes. Straight grain shakes are split from cedar logs in a manner that follows the wood’s natural grain, ensuring maximum strength. Due to their grain direction, these shakes tend to be more durable and less susceptible to warping or splitting compared to shakes with cross grain. This type of roofing is ideal for roofing and siding applications where longevity and a refined appearance are desired.
2. Hand-Split Shakes
As the name suggests, hand-split shakes are crafted using a more traditional method where the cedar wood roofs are split by hand, resulting in a rugged and textured appearance. These shakes provide a rustic, authentic look that many homeowners cherish. The rough surface promotes better water runoff. This is best suited for homeowners aiming for a historic or rustic aesthetic for their roofing or siding.
3. Tapersawn Shakes
Tapersawn shakes are a hybrid between shingles and shakes. They are sawn on both sides, much like a shingle, but are thicker and have the appearance of a shake. These shakes combine the uniform look of shingles with the heft and texture of shakes. They offer a more even, tailored appearance. This is suitable for homeowners who want the benefits of cedar shakes but prefer a more consistent and less rugged profile.
4. Resawn Shakes
Resawn shakes are split on one side and sawn on the other. The split face is typically exposed, providing a textured appearance, while the sawn side lays flat on the roof. These shakes combine the authenticity of hand-split shakes with the smoothness of a sawn product, ensuring a tighter fit.
This is often used in roofing applications where a traditional shake appearance is desired but with a smoother underlying structure.
Cedar Shake Roof Installation and Repair Services
Cedar shake roofs are a symbol of enduring elegance, blending nature’s beauty with robust protection. However, their installation and upkeep require specialized knowledge and expertise. Here’s an overview of cedar shake roof installation and repair services:
Installation Services
- Assessment and Quotation: Before installation, professionals will assess your property, taking into account factors like roof size, slope, and underlying structure. This assessment is essential for providing an accurate quote and ensuring the right materials and methods are used.
- Material Selection: Depending on the desired appearance and durability, homeowners can choose from various cedar shake types. Proper guidance on material selection ensures the roof meets aesthetic and functional requirements.
- Underlayment: Installing a proper underlayment is crucial. This protective barrier, situated beneath the cedar shakes, provides added insulation and shields the structure from potential water damage.
- Installation: The cedar shakes are laid row by row, starting from the roof’s bottom edge. Proper spacing, nailing techniques, and overlapping are crucial to prevent leaks and ensure the roof’s longevity.
- Finishing: Once installed, treatments might be applied to enhance the cedar’s natural resistance to pests, UV rays, and fungal growth.
Repair Services
- Regular Inspection: Professionals recommend periodic roof inspection to identify potential issues before they become severe. Common problems include split or curled shakes, moss growth, and loose or missing shakes.
- Replacement of Damaged Shakes: Individual damaged cedar shakes can be removed and replaced without disturbing the entire roof. This targeted repair maintains the roof’s integrity and appearance.
- Moss and Algae Treatment: Cedar roofs, especially in damp climates, can become breeding grounds for moss and algae. Professional services can clean the roof and apply treatments to inhibit further growth.
- Sealants and Protective Coatings: Over time, cedar shakes might lose their natural protective oils. Sealants and coatings can be reapplied to restore the roof’s resilience against the elements.
- Structural Repairs: If damage extends beyond the cedar shakes, underlying structures like rafters or underlayment might need repair or replacement. Professionals can assess and execute these structural repairs.
Finding Professional Cedar Shake Shingles Contractor Near Me
Cedar shake shingles are a blend of rustic elegance and exceptional durability. They provide a distinctive appearance that many homeowners covet, but finding skilled professionals and quality cedar shake products can sometimes be a challenge.
If you’re on a quest to find top-notch cedar shake shingles and professionals in your locality, here’s a guide to ease your journey.
1. Online Directories and Platforms
Websites like HomeAdvisor, Angie’s List, or Houzz often list professionals specializing in cedar shake shingle installation. These sites often feature customer reviews, helping you gauge the quality and reliability of service providers.
2. Local Hardware Stores
Often, local hardware or roofing supply stores are in touch with contractors and professionals who frequently purchase materials. Asking them for recommendations might lead you to some hidden gems in the community.
3. Ask for Referrals
Word of mouth remains a potent tool. Ask neighbors, friends, or family who have cedar shake roofs about their experiences and if they’d recommend their contractor.
4. Trade Associations
National and regional roofing associations often have directories of certified and experienced members. Look for those who specialize in cedar shake shingles.
5. Conduct Site Visits
If you notice a cedar shake shingle installation in progress in your vicinity, stop by and observe. It gives you an idea of the professionalism and quality of the work. Plus, you can get direct feedback from homeowners.
6. Research and Reviews
Once you’ve shortlisted a few potential service providers, dive deeper. Visit their websites, read testimonials, check for any industry certifications, and look for online reviews.
7. Request Quotations
Approach multiple service providers for quotations. This not only gives you a fair idea about the prevailing market rate but also allows you to gauge their responsiveness and professionalism.
8. Check for Insurance Claims and Licensing
Ensure that the professionals you’re considering are licensed to operate in your area and carry coverage from reputable insurance companies. It’s a safeguard against potential future complications.
9. Visit Previous Projects
Reputed professionals will have a portfolio of their past projects. Visiting a few can give you a clear picture of the quality and craftsmanship they bring to the table.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What are cedar shake shingles?
Cedar shake shingles are thick, rough-cut wooden shingles made primarily from cedar trees. They offer a natural, rustic appearance compared to regular wood roofs or asphalt shingles.
2. How long do cedar shake roofs last?
With proper maintenance and in favorable conditions, cedar shake roofs can last 30 to 40 years or even longer. Factors affecting longevity include climate, installation quality, and regular maintenance.
3. Are cedar shake shingles eco-friendly?
Yes, cedar shakes are biodegradable and sourced from renewable cedar trees. When responsibly harvested and properly managed, cedar forests can provide a sustainable source for shakes.
4. How do cedar shakes differ from cedar shingles?
While both are made from cedar wood, shakes are split (either by hand or machine), resulting in a rougher and more textured surface. Shingles are sawn and have a smoother appearance.
5. Do cedar shake roofs require special maintenance?
Cedar shake roofs benefit from regular maintenance, including cleaning to remove moss or algae, inspection for damaged shakes, and periodic treatments to enhance resistance to pests and UV rays.
6. Are cedar shakes suitable for all climates?
Cedar shakes perform well in a variety of climates due to their natural insulating properties and resistance to harsh weather. However, in extremely humid areas, regular maintenance is crucial to prevent moss and algae buildup.
Find Cedar Roofing Contractor Near You
From installation to maintenance and from initial costs considerations to lifespan expectations, being well-informed ensures that your cedar shake roof is not just an aesthetic addition but also a long-lasting shield for your home. Embarking on a roofing project or seeking repairs can feel overwhelming, but with Roof Nation by your side, you’re never alone. Though we don’t directly offer roofing services, we specialize in connecting homeowners like you with top-tier, licensed professionals in your vicinity!
Don’t let the complexities of roofing deter you. With Roof Nation, you’re just one click away from introducing your home to the best in the business. Contact us today to get started!