When you’re in the market for a roof upgrade, you probably consider a new asphalt shingle roof or maybe a trendy metal roof, but have you ever considered a cedar shake roof? The cedar shake roof cost is comparable to both premium options but with a ton of added benefits, including:
- Long-lasting material
- Beautiful rustic aesthetic
- Natural insulator
- Strong wind-resistance
Our cedar shake roof cost analysis will dive deeper into what cedar shingles might cost you, plus the pay off you get with such an investment.
What Are Cedar Shakes?
Cedar shakes are a type of roofing material made from thin pieces of cedar wood. Shakes can be either hand-split or sawn, and they vary in size. The most common shake size is 18 to 24 inches long by 6–8 inches wide.
While cedar shakes have been used for centuries, their popularity has declined in recent decades because of the high cedar shake roof cost. However, this is changing as more and more homeowners are beginning to see the value in this type of roof.
✅ The Benefits of Cedar Shakes
There are several reasons why you should consider a cedar shake roof for your home:
Beautiful Curb Appeal 😍
Cedar shakes have a natural beauty that can enhance the curb appeal of your home. As it ages, it becomes a stunning gray color that many homeowners love. But that can be seen as a downfall as well to people who want a roof to retain its original color.
Naturally Insulates
Cedar is an excellent insulator, which means it can help keep your home cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter. This can lead to lower energy bills and a more comfortable home year-round.
Insect and Pest-Resistant 🪲🐭
Another reason to love cedar is that it is naturally resistant to insects and pests. This means you won’t have to worry about termites or other pests damaging your roof.
Can Be Re-Treated 🪵
If you do notice your roof starting to fade or becoming affected by the elements, you can re-treat or stain the wood again.
Resistant to Wind and Hail Damage 🌬️
Cedar shake roofs are also resistant to wind and hail damage, which is a common issue with asphalt shingle roofs. While a severe natural disaster always risks damaging your roof, you won’t have to worry about your roof being damaged in a run-of-the-mill storm.
Increase Home Value 📈
Because of all these benefits, a cedar shake roof can also increase the value of your home. If you’re considering selling your home in the future, a cedar shake roof will be an attractive feature for potential buyers.
Great ROI 🤑
Cedar shake roofs have an incredible ROI. While the upfront costs can be higher, the roof itself can last up to 50 years or more with proper maintenance.
❌ The Downfalls of Cedar Shakes
You can’t have a positive without a negative. Unfortunately, there are some downfalls to cedar shake roofs as well. It’s important to note before you take the plunge on such an investment.
Requires Regular Maintenance 🧹
Cedar shake roofs will require more maintenance than other types of roofs. You’ll need to clean the roof regularly and check for any damage. You may also need to re-treat or stain the wood every few years to keep it looking its best.
Can Be Costly 💸
The cedar shake roof cost can be expensive to install, which is one of the main reasons why its popularity has declined in recent years. The cost of materials and labor can add up quickly, making this a pricey investment for many homeowners.
How Much Does a Cedar Shake Roof Cost?
Now that we’ve gone over the pros and cons of cedar shakes, you’re probably wondering how much such a roof would cost. The average cost for a standard 1,500 sq. ft. cedar shake roof is $21,500, with a range of $18,000 to $25,000. But the truth is, the cost of a cedar shake roof varies depending on a few different factors.
- The size of your roof is one of the main factors that will affect the price. A larger roof will obviously cost more to cover than a smaller one.
- The type of shake you choose will also affect the price. Hand-split shakes tend to be more expensive than sawn shakes.
- The pitch of your roof can also play a role in the price. A steeper roof will be more difficult to work on and will require more materials, which will drive up the cost.
- Finally, the location of your home can also affect the price of a cedar shake roof. If you live in an area with a higher cost of living, you can expect to pay more for your roof than someone who lives in a less expensive area.
Getting the Most Out of Your Investment
Increasing the value of your home is just one of the many benefits of installing a new cedar shake roof, and the ROI is quite good with a cedar shake roof. As certified DaVinci Roofscapes Masterpiece Installers, you can rest easy knowing your new cedar shake roof will be installed flawlessly with industry-leading workmanship and design.
Working with premium DaVinci products allows us to provide our customers with durable, reliable cedar shake roofs that will last for decades to come. Contact Durashield today to get started.