Cedar shakes are one of the most aesthetically pleasing roofing options. It comes in multiple faces and painted finishes for a broad range of options, depending on the style you want to achieve. Natural and synthetic materials offer different possibilities for homeowners to get the look of wood with an artistic, handcrafted appearance.
What Are Cedar Shakes?
Cedar shakes refer to wood roofing with pieces that vary in size and thickness for a charming and rustic look. The appearance replicates the traditional mallet-cut or ax shingles from the Colonial era when this style first gained popularity as the standard across the country. The material's durability offers some natural resistance to moisture, insects and wind with other benefits, including insulating properties that help maintain a steady temperature throughout your home during each season.
How to Make Cedar Shakes
Creating cedar shakes with natural materials involves rounds of wood. Artisans use tools and machinery to split the wood into smaller sections. Techniques such as flipping the shake block end over end after each divide keep the thickness consistent from piece to piece.
During the installation process, roofers prepare the surface with layers of protection. For example, a ventilation matrix allows rain to dry evenly, with the wood shapes remaining consistent over time. An underlayment of shingles goes on first, with rows of shakes lining up and overlapping in a mix of widths for an appealing style.
FAQS About Cedar Shakes
Learn more about cedar shakes with these common questions and answers:
How are trees made into cedar shakes? Most cedar shakes come from splitting wood rounds into smaller pieces. Using power saws and other tools creates a tailored appearance or semi-textured look. Typically, the wood shakes have a sawn side and a hand-split side.
What's the difference between cedar shakes and shingles? Despite popular belief, that actual difference between shakes and shingles is the way they are installed. Shakes are installed at a larger exposure, with felt underlayment between the courses. Shakes are usually thicker, and often have a a hand split surface texture.
How long should cedar shakes last? Properly installed and maintained cedar shakes typically provide about 30 years of use. If you live in an area with the right conditions and invest in high-quality materials, the materials could offer more longevity. In these cases, this type of roof could last around 50 years.
How do you maintain a cedar shake roof? Scheduling protective treatments every one to three years ensures the best cedar roofing maintenance. This preventive service maintains the wood's consistent shape. Some water and fire repellents, algaecides and fungicides offer more preservation.
Buy From a Trusted Wood Roofing Manufacturer
Cedar shakes provide a beautiful look for country cottages, ranch-style houses, villas in the hills or mountains and other homes. Trust the artisans at Custom Shingles to create a high-quality and stunning roof for you. Features from well-favored magazines such as Architectural Digest and Country Living provide our company with well-favored recognition in the roofing industry.
To get started, contact us for an estimate today!