The Charm of Traditional Cedar Shake Shingles
When it comes to both material quality and aesthetics, traditional cedar shake shingles are unparalleled, sporting a unique texture that can give any home a bit of rustic charm while protecting it from the elements. Made from natural cedar wood, these shingles not only enhance your home’s curb appeal but also provide impressive impact and weather resistance – in fact, cedar shake shingles can withstand impact from two-inch-wide hail travelling at over 70 miles per hour. Because of that, a home with a traditional cedar shake roof will likely be safe from major weather-related damage for decades on end.
Advancements in Roofing: Composite Cedar Shake Shingles
The Pros and Cons of Cedar Shake Shingles
Pros
- Aesthetic Appeal: Cedar shakes offer a classic rustic look that can improve the curb appeal of any home.
- Insulation: Cedar has natural insulating properties, keeping homes warmer in winter and cooler in summer.
- Durability: When properly maintained, cedar shakes can last between 30 and 50 years – that’s up to 20 years longer than the average roof!
- Eco-Friendly: Cedar is a renewable resource, and its natural decomposition process has minimal environmental impact. Because of that, traditional cedar shake shingles are as nature-friendly as roofing products can get.
Cons
- Maintenance: Cedar shakes, especially the traditional variety, require regular maintenance, including cleaning and treatment to prevent rot, mold, and insect infestation.
- Cost: They are generally more expensive than other roofing materials – you can expect to pay at least $18,000 to roof a 3,000-square-foot home with cedar shakes.
- Fire Risk: Cedar is not inherently fire-resistant like asphalt or tile, so cedar shakes may require additional treatment to improve fire safety.
Finding Cedar Shake Shingles
If you’ve looked at the pros and cons and determined you want to purchase cedar shakes for your home, there are several ways to do so. Major home improvement stores like Lowe’s and Home Depot may be your best bet, as they offer both the traditional and composite varieties on a reliable basis. With that said, online platforms make it easy to locate “cedar shake shingles for sale near me” with a simple Google search, so if you live in an area without one of these stores, you may benefit from looking on the web.
However, the best way to get your shingles is by hiring a local roofing contractor (like, ahem, Baker Home Exteriors if you live in the Southeast). We not only install your shingles but also purchase and ship them to you beforehand, saving you the effort of going on a wild goose chase through the roofing industry to buy and transport them separately. Because of that, roofing contractors are the most efficient path to getting your hands on your new shingles.
Conclusion
Cedar shake shingles, whether traditional or composite, excel in blending top-notch style with lasting protective value. From the natural charm of real cedar to the low-maintenance and durability of synthetic alternatives, there’s a cedar shake option to suit every home and personal taste. So, if you can afford a slightly more expensive roof, you won’t be disappointed if you choose cedar shake.
