Wood roofing offers unmatched natural beauty but comes with unique maintenance requirements. This guide compares wood shingles and shakes to help you decide if they’re suitable for your home.
Understanding Wood Roofing Options
Wood Shingles
- Machine-cut for uniform size and smooth appearance
- Typically made from cedar, redwood, or treated pine
- Thinner (3/8″ to 1/2″) with precise edges
- Installed in overlapping courses
Wood Shakes
- Hand-split for rustic, textured look
- Thicker (1/2″ to 1″) with uneven surfaces
- Often have “tapered” appearance
- More dimensional than shingles
Key Benefits of Wood Roofing
✔ Natural Aesthetic – Warm, organic look that ages beautifully
✔ Good Insulation – Provides natural thermal regulation
✔ Environmentally Friendly – Biodegradable and renewable
✔ Durability – Properly maintained cedar lasts 30-50 years
✔ Weather Resistance – Naturally repels water when properly installed
Important Considerations
Maintenance Requirements
- Requires bi-annual inspections for moss/algae
- Needs periodic cleaning (soft washing recommended)
- May require stain/preservative treatments every 3-5 years
- Fireproofing treatments necessary in wildfire zones
Climate Considerations
✓ Best for temperate climates with good airflow
✗ Not ideal for constantly wet or extremely dry regions
⚠ Special precautions needed in:
- High humidity areas (mold risk)
- Fire-prone regions (requires Class B/C fire rating)
Cost Comparison
| Type | Material Cost | Installed Cost | Lifespan |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cedar Shingles | 4−4−7/sq ft | 8−8−12/sq ft | 30-40 yrs |
| Cedar Shakes | 5−5−9/sq ft | 10−10−16/sq ft | 40-50 yrs |
| Treated Pine | 3−3−5/sq ft | 6−6−10/sq ft | 20-30 yrs |
*Note: Premium hardwoods (redwood, cypress) cost 20-30% more*
Who Should Consider Wood Roofing?
✅ Ideal Candidates:
- Owners of historic or craftsman-style homes
- Those prioritizing natural aesthetics
- Homeowners in wooded, rural settings
- Buyers willing to perform regular maintenance
❌ Poor Candidates:
- Budget-conscious owners (high long-term costs)
- Those wanting “install and forget” roofing
- Homes in urban fire districts (check local codes)
- Properties with poor roof ventilation
Installation Essentials
- Requires specialized roofing contractors with wood experience
- Must include:
- Proper underlayment (self-sealing recommended)
- Adequate roof slope (minimum 4:12 pitch)
- Correct spacing for expansion/contraction
- Always check local building codes for restrictions
Alternative Options
For those drawn to wood’s look but concerned about maintenance:
- Composite Wood-Look Shingles (50+ year lifespan)
- Cedar-Impregnated Asphalt Shakes (lower maintenance)
- PVC/Plastic Wood Mimics (fire-resistant alternatives)
Final Verdict
Wood shingles and shakes offer unparalleled natural charm but demand commitment to maintenance. While beautiful, they’re not the most practical choice for every homeowner.
Recommendations:
- Choose cedar shakes for maximum durability and rustic appeal
- Opt for shingles if you prefer a more refined, uniform look
- Consider composite alternatives if maintenance is a concern
- Always consult local roofing experts about climate suitability
