Types of Cedar Shakes and Shingles for Roofing: A Complete Guide
Cedar roofing is known for its natural beauty, durability, and ability to stand up to the elements while aging gracefully. Homeowners who choose cedar shakes or shingles often do so for the blend of performance and aesthetics they offer. But not all cedar roofing products are the same. The range of types, cuts, treatments, and grades available on the market can make choosing the right option feel overwhelming. Whether you're restoring a historic property or building new with an eye toward classic curb appeal, understanding these differences is critical for long-term satisfaction and performance.
There’s more to cedar roofing than just looks. Structural differences like how a shake is cut, the species of cedar used, and whether the material is treated or raw all influence how a roof performs. Some homeowners prioritize rustic texture, while others want uniform lines. Some cedar species handle moisture better than others. Treatments and stains come with added cost but may offer benefits in longevity or appearance. And then there’s grading: an often overlooked aspect that quietly dictates consistency, durability, and price.
This article explores the most important aspects of cedar roofing selection. If you're curious about the distinctions that matter when selecting cedar shingles, this comprehensive guide will give you the insights needed to make an informed decision for your roofing project in Hammond and beyond—with insights from the professionals at Siding Unlimited.
Comparing Hand-Split Shakes and Taper-Sawn Shingles for Cedar Roofing
The primary difference between hand-split cedar shakes and taper-sawn cedar shingles lies in their texture, thickness, and method of manufacturing.
Hand-split shakes are split from logs using a mallet and froe, resulting in a rugged, textured surface on the exposed side and a relatively smooth underside. This gives roofs a more rustic, traditional appearance. Taper-sawn shingles, on the other hand, are sawn on both sides to create a smoother, more uniform surface, offering a refined and consistent aesthetic that mimics the appearance of asphalt or slate shingles. These differences significantly influence both curb appeal and functional performance, especially in architectural designs where visual texture plays a role.
Performance is also affected by how these materials are cut. Hand-split shakes are generally thicker than taper-sawn shingles, which contributes to superior insulation and impact resistance, especially in regions with extreme weather. The increased thickness and irregular surface can improve airflow under the roofing system, which can assist in moisture management.
However, due to their precision-cut and thinner profile, taper-sawn shingles tend to lie flatter on the roof deck and create tighter joints, reducing the likelihood of moisture infiltration under normal exposure conditions. This makes them especially suitable for areas where uniformity and water shedding are key priorities.
Homeowners choosing between the two must consider both aesthetic goals and climate conditions. In many cases, the rustic, shadowed look of hand-split shakes suits traditional or lodge-style homes, while taper-sawn shingles fit well with modern or coastal designs. For those wanting architectural elegance without compromising natural material performance, cedar shingles offer a unique blend of charm and protection.
Our team is experienced in installing both types to exacting standards, ensuring the right balance of beauty and durability for every project.
Understanding Grade Classifications in Cedar Roofing
Cedar roofing materials are categorized into various grades based on wood quality, grain type, and appearance.
The most common classification systems are governed by the Cedar Shake & Shingle Bureau (CSSB) and include Premium, #1, #2, and Utility grades. Premium grade, often referred to as “Blue Label,” uses 100% edge-grain (vertical grain) cedar, which provides maximum stability and minimal splitting. This grade is the top choice for long-term performance, especially in demanding climates. #1 grade allows for a mix of edge and flat grain, while still maintaining a high level of quality suitable for residential roofing.
Lower grades like #2 and Utility contain more imperfections and are typically reserved for sidewall applications or utility structures.
The grading system is crucial because it directly affects a roof’s durability, visual consistency, and weather resistance. Higher-grade shakes and shingles are more resistant to cupping, warping, and splitting. For example, Premium grade products are less likely to absorb excess moisture, which makes them a smarter investment for homeowners in regions with heavy rainfall or snow loads. On the other hand, using lower-grade materials on a roof can significantly reduce lifespan, leading to premature repairs and replacements.
Many municipalities and insurance providers even require a minimum grade level for cedar roofing installations to meet code or warranty standards.
Understanding the distinctions in grade not only helps with budget planning but also ensures the selected product meets structural and aesthetic goals. Whether you’re looking for uniformity across large roof planes or a more natural variation in tone and texture, selecting the appropriate grade ensures long-term satisfaction. When planning for roofing installation, knowledge of grading will guide choices that balance budget, performance, and aesthetics effectively.
Choosing Between Western Red Cedar and Alaskan Yellow Cedar for Roofing
Western Red Cedar and Alaskan Yellow Cedar are the two most commonly used species for cedar roofing, each with distinct properties that influence performance and appearance. Western Red Cedar is favored for its rich reddish-brown hue, straight grain, and exceptional resistance to decay. It contains natural oils that deter insects and resist fungal growth, making it ideal for a wide range of climates. Its softness also allows it to be easily shaped into shakes or shingles, offering flexibility in roofing styles.
This species is particularly valued for its visual warmth and ability to age into a soft gray patina over time.
Alaskan Yellow Cedar, often mistaken for cypress due to its pale yellow tone and fine grain, is denser and heavier than Western Red. It exhibits high resistance to wear and moisture and is more uniform in appearance, which appeals to homeowners looking for a cleaner, brighter finish. The wood has a naturally spicy scent due to its high thujaplicin content—a compound that also enhances decay resistance. Because of its density, Alaskan Yellow Cedar is somewhat harder to cut and install, but it can offer a longer service life with proper maintenance. It also weathers to a silver-gray, though more gradually than Western Red.
The best choice depends on regional climate, desired aesthetic, and budget. Western Red Cedar is generally more readily available and slightly more affordable, while Alaskan Yellow Cedar commands a premium for its density and uniformity. Both species meet stringent roofing standards and perform well under various environmental conditions, making them reliable options for cedar roofing systems.
Selection often comes down to the look a homeowner wants to achieve and their tolerance for maintenance requirements.
Evaluating the Cost-Benefit of Treated and Pre-Stained Cedar Roofing
Treated and pre-stained cedar shakes and shingles are designed to extend product longevity, enhance appearance, and reduce maintenance demands.
Treatments can include fire retardants, pressure-applied preservatives, or fungicidal coatings that help resist rot, insects, and UV degradation. Pre-staining involves applying factory-applied color finishes to each piece, ensuring even coating and color stability. While these enhancements do increase upfront costs—often by 20% to 40%—they offer meaningful long-term value by minimizing the frequency of repairs, replacements, and re-staining.
For homeowners in regions with high humidity, heavy rainfall, or wildfire risk, treated cedar can be a critical upgrade. Fire-rated shakes, for example, are often required by building codes in certain jurisdictions and can also reduce homeowners’ insurance premiums. Pre-stained cedar offers visual advantages, too, helping maintain curb appeal over time by resisting weathering and discoloration. Since staining in the field can lead to inconsistent results due to moisture levels, application methods, or temperature fluctuations, factory pre-staining provides more reliable and durable coverage.
Choosing treated or pre-stained materials makes the most sense for those wanting to reduce long-term labor and maintenance costs, or when local regulations demand enhanced fire or rot resistance. While they are not strictly necessary for all applications, they are often worth the investment when viewed over the entire service life of a roof.
How Cedar Cut Styles Influence Roof Appearance and Performance
The way cedar shakes or shingles are cut plays a major role in the appearance of a roof and how well it resists moisture over time.
Common cut types include edge grain (vertical grain), flat grain (slash grain), and mixed grain. Edge-grain shakes and shingles are cut so the growth rings run vertically, which gives the wood more dimensional stability. This type is less likely to cup, curl, or split over time, making it the top choice for longevity and water resistance. Flat grain materials are more prone to movement and are often used in lower-grade classifications.
Another way cuts influence performance is through surface exposure and overlap. Tapered cuts allow shingles to shed water more effectively and lay flat against the roof deck, reducing water ingress during heavy rain. Thicker hand-split shakes, though less uniform, provide deeper shadow lines and visual depth, and their irregular surface can facilitate airflow beneath the shingle course, promoting drying. Mixed grain cuts combine both vertical and flat grain characteristics, offering aesthetic variety but with potentially less performance consistency across the roof surface.
Visually, cut styles influence the texture and rhythm of a roofline. Homeowners seeking rustic charm often prefer hand-split and resawn shakes, while those favoring clean lines may lean toward taper-sawn or machine-sawn shingles. Ultimately, the chosen cut should align with the building’s architectural intent and the regional climate challenges.
Expert installation using the right cuts can significantly enhance both the appearance and functionality of a cedar roof over decades of service.
Why Choose Siding Unlimited for Your Cedar Roofing Project?
At Siding Unlimited, we know that choosing the right cedar roofing product is only part of the process — expert installation and professional guidance are just as important for making sure your investment lasts for decades.
We’ve helped homeowners in Hammond and the surrounding areas get the most from their cedar roofs by combining precision craftsmanship with in-depth knowledge of how each material performs. Whether you’re deciding between hand-split shakes and taper-sawn shingles, evaluating grade classifications, or choosing between Western Red and Alaskan Yellow Cedar, our team will walk you through each option so you can make confident, informed decisions.
If you’re considering enhancements like pre-staining or pressure treatment, we’ll help you determine the best approach based on your climate, maintenance preferences, and long-term cost-effectiveness. From rustic, traditional styles to modern, streamlined designs, every cedar roof we install is built with attention to detail and structural integrity.
Whether you’re ready to begin your project or still exploring possibilities, our team is here to help. Call us at 651-681-5000 with your questions or to get your free estimate.