Is there anything more beautiful than a roof with wood shakes?

If you’re a proud DIY-er, don’t rule out a cedar shake roof just yet. All you need to do is take some extra precautions with your cedar shake roof installation, and you’ll be enjoying the roof of your dreams for years to come.

This roofing style has stood the test of time, and with good reasons. A cedar shake roof adds:

Instant charm ✨
A rustic aesthetic 🪵
Excellent durability 💪

The downside? They require precise installation in order to function optimally.

As one of the most popular types of wooden roofs available, consider cedar shingles in looking to add more curb appeal to your home than asphalt shingles can provide.

Pros and Cons of a Cedar Shake Roof

While a cedar shake roof continues to be a popular choice for homeowners, it isn’t the right choice for everyone. A cedar shake roof replacement comes with a variety of pros and cons that should be carefully considered before you make your decision.

Here are some of the most important factors to take into consideration.

Pros ✅

Long Life Span – When it comes to roofing materials, many homeowners are swayed by the longevity of a cedar shake roof. Asphalt shingles are a common roofing material, but they only last for around 15 years. Cedar shake shingles, by comparison, can last for up to 10 years longer.
Energy Efficient – Noticing unusually high heating and cooling bills? Your roof could be the culprit. An inefficient roof can let heat or cool air escape through your attic, which means you will end up paying more than you want to. A new cedar shake roof can help give you superior insulation and keep costs down.
Eco-Friendly Options – Cedar shakes are made of natural wood, meaning that they can be an eco-friendly option. When selecting your cedar roofing shingles, be sure to buy from a reputable company that is dedicated to replacing trees.
Durable – Cedar shake shingles are great for a wide variety of weather conditions, and can stand up to hail, snow, and strong wind conditions.

Cons ⛔

Maintenance – One of the biggest deterrents for homeowners who want to install cedar shingles is maintenance. There’s no way around this one. A new cedar shake roof will inevitably require more upkeep than other roofing materials on the market. This may come in the form of spray treatments, power washing, or more regular inspections.
Cost – It’s true what they say: you don’t get something for nothing! While there are lots of stellar benefits, your cedar shake shingle roof will cost you more than options like asphalt roofs. Cedar shakes are typically about $6-$10, per square foot.

Cedar Shake Installation: 5 Things To Avoid

Still interested? Then, it is about time to get started on your installation! Here are some essential things to avoid when installing cedar shakes.

1) Buying Above Your Budget

We’ve already mentioned that a cedar shake roof is going to be more expensive than other types of roofs. However, there are other aspects you should budget for. Because cedar shakes require more maintenance, it is important to factor that into your budget.

Can you afford to replace the shingles in the event of weather damage? Can you afford a yearly spray treatment? These are important questions to ask yourself before making the purchase.

2) Using the Wrong Nails

A cedar shake roof requires a specific installation technique and specialized tools to ensure that it lasts as long as you need it to.

It is crucial to choose aluminum or stainless steel nails in order to avoid breaking the shingles during installation.

3) Installing Cedar Shakes Too Soon

Cedar shake shingles are similar to other types of wood that you use to build with. Just like you would with hardwood flooring, it is imperative that you give cedar shakes time to acclimate to the climate of your home. This will help you avoid shrinking shingles post-installation.

4) Not Laying The Shakes Properly

For a successful installation, you should ensure that you are aligning your cedar shingles the correct way. Cedar shingles should lay flat on your roof, with the thickest part of the shingle facing the top of the roof.

5) Forgetting Ventilation

Ventilation is key when it comes to the longevity of your shingles. Proper ventilation will ensure that your cedar shake shingles can dry out after a rain or snowstorm. This will help you avoid water damage in the future.

The trick is to install high-quality underlayment and add wood spacers. After the wood spacers are in place, a layer of skip sheathing will help allow your shingles to breathe.

Consult With A Trusted Roofing Contractor

When it comes to your home, you deserve high-quality roofing services. Our team at Durashield is here to ensure that your cedar shake roof is properly installed and will last for years to come. Ready to get started? Contact us today for a free roof inspection!