Cedar Shakes vs. Cedar Shingles: What’s the Difference?

When it comes to roofing and siding, cedar shakes and cedar shingles are popular choices known for their natural beauty, durability, and timeless appeal. However, while they might seem similar at first glance, there are significant differences between the two that can influence your decision when choosing materials for your home. Here’s a closer look at the distinctions between cedar shakes and cedar shingles.

Cedar Shingles

Cedar shingles are precisely milled pieces of cedar wood that provide a uniform and clean appearance. They are typically sawn on both sides, creating a smooth finish. Shingles are thinner and more uniform in thickness compared to shakes. They are often used for roofing and siding, providing a sleek, orderly look that complements a variety of architectural styles.

Advantages of Cedar Shingles:

1. Aesthetic Uniformity: The consistent size and shape of cedar shingles create a clean, refined appearance.

2. Durability: Shingles are durable and can withstand various weather conditions when properly maintained.

3. Ease of Installation: The uniformity of shingles makes them easier to install compared to shakes.

4. Versatility: Suitable for both roofing and siding, offering a cohesive look for your home.

Considerations:

1. Cost: Generally, cedar shingles are more expensive than shakes due to the precise milling process.

2. Maintenance: Like all wood products, shingles require regular maintenance to prevent rot, moss, and insect damage.

Cedar Shakes

Cedar shakes, on the other hand, are split from logs and have a more rustic, textured appearance. They come in two main types: hand-split and taper-sawn. Hand-split shakes are rougher and have a more rugged look, while taper-sawn shakes are smoother but still thicker than shingles. Shakes are typically used when a more traditional, natural aesthetic is desired.

Advantages of Cedar Shakes:

1. Natural Aesthetic: The irregular, rough-hewn look of shakes adds a distinctive, rustic charm to homes.

2. Thickness and Durability: Shakes are thicker than shingles, offering enhanced insulation and potentially longer lifespan.

3. Unique Appearance: Each shake has its own unique texture and appearance, creating a one-of-a-kind look.

Considerations:

1. Installation: The irregularity of shakes can make installation more challenging and time-consuming.

2. Maintenance: Like shingles, shakes require regular maintenance to preserve their appearance and integrity.

3. Cost: While the material cost of shakes can be lower, the labor costs may be higher due to more complex installation requirements.

Choosing Between Cedar Shakes and Shingles

The choice between cedar shakes and shingles ultimately depends on your aesthetic preferences, budget, and maintenance willingness. If you prefer a more polished, uniform look and are willing to invest in higher upfront costs for material and potentially lower labor costs, cedar shingles might be the better choice. However, if you lean towards a rustic, unique appearance and don’t mind the additional effort required for installation and maintenance, cedar shakes can offer a beautiful, natural look that enhances your home’s charm.

Both cedar shakes and shingles provide excellent durability, insulation, and a timeless appeal that can enhance the beauty and value of your home. By understanding the key differences and considering your specific needs and preferences, you can make an informed decision that ensures your home remains beautiful and protected for years to come.