Cedar Roof Shakes: Understanding the Product

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When it comes to cedar roofing, not all shakes are created equal. Different types of cedar shakes offer varying aesthetics, performance, and durability. Here’s a breakdown of the most common types:

THE CUT

1. Hand-Split Cedar Shakes

Hand-split cedar shakes are the traditional choice and are made by splitting logs into shakes along the grain, rather than sawing them. This process creates a textured, rustic finish with a more natural, uneven appearance. These shakes tend to be thicker and more durable, giving your roof a more authentic, aged look. Hand-split shakes are often preferred for historic or rustic properties due to their classic appeal.

Benefits:

Authentic, rustic look
Natural texture and grain
Excellent durability and longevity

Best For: Historic homes, cabins, and cottages looking for a timeless, traditional aesthetic.

2. Taper-Sawn Cedar Shakes

Taper-sawn shakes are made by cutting the cedar logs into uniform pieces with a saw, producing a more consistent thickness and a smoother surface compared to hand-split shakes. The tapered edges offer a more refined, straight-line aesthetic. While they may not have the same rustic appearance as hand-split shakes, they still retain the natural beauty of cedar, and they often have improved longevity and performance.

Benefits:

Smooth, uniform finish
Enhanced resistance to wind and weather
Longer-lasting and easier to install

Best For: Modern homes, commercial buildings, or homeowners looking for a cleaner, more contemporary style.

3. Exposure and Thickness

When installing cedar shakes, selecting the right exposure and thickness based on the roof pitch is crucial for both performance and longevity. Steeper roof pitches shed water more quickly, allowing for a larger exposure (the portion of the shake that remains visible) without compromising protection. On lower-pitched roofs, a smaller exposure and thicker shakes are essential to prevent water infiltration and ensure proper drainage. Thicker shakes, such as ¾-inch or even 1-inch heavy shakes, provide better insulation and durability, especially in areas with heavy rain or snow. Proper selection ensures that the shakes overlap correctly, creating a tight, weather-resistant seal that enhances the roof’s lifespan and overall performance.

THE SPECIES and SOURCE

Western Red Cedar vs. Alaskan Yellow Cedar.

While both types of cedar provide similar benefits, the wood’s source can impact aesthetics and performance. Canadien sources Western Red Cedar are typically more durable and naturally resistant to moisture, insects, and decay. It’s often used in higher-end roofing projects due to its superior longevity and rich color.

Western Red Cedar:

Known for its deep, rich reddish-brown tones
Highly resistant to rot, decay, and insects
Withstands serious freeze/thaw cycles
Often preferred for high-end roofing applications

Alaskan Yellow Cedar:

Also sourced from Canada, despite the name
Ages to a light silver tone
Highly resistant to rot, decay and insects.

MR Roofing only sources Cedar Shake and Shingle Bureau-certified shakes, regardless of the species. This ensured the highest quality standards, with mills having committed to unannounced third-party inspections by accredited agencies.

Why Professional Installation Is Crucial for Cedar Roofs

The complexity of cedar shake roofing installation makes it essential to hire a qualified roofing contractor. Properly setting the correct reveal, choosing the right underlayment, and determining the appropriate layering system requires knowledge and experience. Here’s why trusting a professional is key:

Customized Installation: Every roof is different. A professional roofer will assess your roof’s unique characteristics—such as pitch, design, environment and local weather conditions—to customize the installation process, ensuring your cedar shakes perform optimally for decades.
Avoiding Mistakes That Can Lead to Damage: Mistakes like improper reveal placement, incorrect layering, or the wrong type of underlayment can lead to water damage, increased wear, and reduced lifespan of your roof. A qualified contractor like MR Roofing understands how to address these factors to ensure your roof is properly protected.
Adherence to Building Codes: Cedar roofing installation is subject to local building codes, especially in regions prone to wildfires or severe weather. An experienced roofer will be familiar with these codes and ensure your roof complies with all regulations, preventing potential issues down the road.

Trust MR Roofing for Expert Cedar Shake Roof Installation

When it comes to cedar shake roofing, the details matter. Every step plays a role in the longevity and performance of your roof. At MR Roofing, we specialize in installing cedar shake roofs that not only look beautiful but also provide long-lasting protection for your home. Our dedicated cedar installation crew does this work day in and out, this ensures that every aspect of your cedar roof is installed with precision, care, and attention to detail.