5 Benefits of a Cedar Shake Home Design
When it comes to designing your dream home, there are countless materials to choose from. Among these options, cedar shakes stand out as a unique and beautiful choice that has captivated homeowners for generations. With their natural charm and practical benefits, cedar shake home designs are an excellent way to elevate your home’s exterior.
However, traditional cedar shakes can be expensive, heavy, and require ongoing maintenance. With innovations like synthetic cedar shakes, homeowners now have access to a better, low-maintenance alternative. Let’s explore the benefits of cedar shake home designs, inspiring design ideas, and why synthetic cedar shakes may be the perfect solution for your home.
The History and Popularity of Cedar Shake Home Designs
Cedar shake home designs have been a staple of rustic and traditional architecture for centuries. Originally used in colonial homes and mountain lodges, cedar shakes were prized for their natural beauty, durability, and ability to blend seamlessly with natural surroundings.
Today, they continue to be a sought-after material, bringing warmth, charm, and character to homes across a variety of styles, from coastal retreats to suburban residences.
Benefits of Cedar Shake Home Designs
1. It's a Stable Material
Cedar is a highly stable material, making it an excellent choice for roofing and siding. Unlike other woods, cedar can better withstand fluctuating humidity levels without excessive expansion or contraction.
That said, traditional cedar shakes still expand and contract to some extent, especially if not installed correctly. This can cause overlapping or damage over time. Synthetic cedar shakes eliminate this concern, offering the same aesthetic appeal with none of the instability.
2. Durability
Cedar is one of the most durable natural woods available. It can withstand moisture, insects, and UV rays better than many other materials. However, traditional cedar shakes can still suffer from impact damage, such as hail or falling branches, and they are not naturally fire-resistant without treatments.
Synthetic cedar shakes like CeDUR offer superior durability. They are fire-resistant (Class A Rated), impact-resistant (Class 4 Impact Rated), and can withstand high winds, making them a safer and more reliable choice for homeowners.
3. Insulation
Cedar shakes provide excellent insulation, helping maintain your home's temperature throughout the year. This reduces energy costs by keeping your home warm in winter and cool in summer.
However, the weight of natural cedar shakes often requires structural adjustments to support them. Synthetic cedar shakes, being lightweight and easy to install, provide the same insulation benefits without the added expense of structural reinforcement.
4. Enhances Home's Appearance
The rustic charm and natural texture of cedar shakes make them a standout choice for enhancing your home's appearance. Their warm tones and distinct grain create a timeless aesthetic that complements a variety of architectural styles.
Synthetic cedar shakes replicate the look of real wood with remarkable accuracy and offer a range of color options, such as Shiloh, Walden, Live Oak, and Golden Cedar, to suit any home design.
5. Increased Home Value
Homes with cedar shake designs are often viewed as premium properties, which can increase their resale value. By investing in high-quality cedar shakes, homeowners can enjoy both aesthetic and financial benefits. With synthetic cedar shakes, you can achieve the same premium look with lower maintenance costs, further boosting long-term value.
Comparing Cedar Shakes with Other Materials
Cedar shakes are an excellent option, but how do they compare to other popular materials like asphalt, clay, or slate? Here’s a quick breakdown:
Asphalt Shingles: Affordable but lack the natural charm of cedar.
Clay Tiles: Durable but heavy and less versatile in style.
Slate: Elegant but extremely heavy and expensive.
Synthetic Cedar Shakes: Lightweight, durable, and maintenance-free while offering the beauty of real cedar.
3 Cedar Shake Home Design Ideas for Inspiration
1. Pair Dark Shakes with a White House
Dark gray or black cedar shakes paired with a white exterior create a stunning contrast, adding depth and elegance. This combination works particularly well for colonial or farmhouse-style homes.
2. Use Them as Accent Siding
Cedar shakes aren't just for roofing—they make excellent siding as well. Use them to highlight specific areas, like a front-facing gable or an accent wall, to create visual interest and add character to your home's exterior.
3. Cover Your Whole House
For a bold, cohesive look, consider using cedar shakes as siding across your entire home. Pair dark shakes with light trim for a classic aesthetic, or opt for warm tones like Golden Cedar to create a welcoming, rustic vibe.
Regional Considerations for Cedar Shake Designs
Cedar shake home designs work beautifully in various climates and regions. For example:
Coastal Areas: Cedar's resistance to salty air makes it ideal for beachside homes.
Mountain Retreats: The rustic appeal of cedar complements natural surroundings perfectly.
Suburban Neighborhoods: Cedar shakes add unique charm that helps homes stand out while blending with modern architecture.
The Case for Synthetic Cedar Shakes
CeDUR’s synthetic cedar shakes combine the beauty of natural cedar with the durability of modern materials. Here’s why they’re a superior choice:
Class A Fire Rating for added safety.
Class 4 Impact Rating to withstand hail and debris.
Resistant to insects, UV rays, and moisture.
Lightweight and easy to install, reducing labor costs.
Virtually maintenance-free, requiring only occasional cleaning.
Maintenance Tips for Cedar Shake Home Designs
Inspect Regularly: Look for signs of damage, like cracks or missing pieces.
Clean as Needed: Remove debris and wash gently to maintain their appearance.
Seal or Treat: For natural cedar, apply sealants to protect against moisture and UV rays. Synthetic cedar shakes require no sealing.
Transform Your Home with Cedar Shake Design
Cedar shake home designs offer unmatched charm, durability, and versatility, making them a timeless choice for homeowners. Whether you prefer the traditional beauty of real wood or the advanced benefits of synthetic cedar shakes, incorporating cedar shakes into your home’s design will elevate its curb appeal and value.
For a low-maintenance, long-lasting option, consider CeDUR’s synthetic cedar shakes. With a variety of styles and colors to choose from, CeDUR can help you create the home of your dreams.
Contact us today to learn more or request a free sample to experience the CeDUR difference!