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

Unlike other common woods, cedar has the unique benefit of being both stylistically beautiful as well as functionally elite. Therefore, it’s no surprise that cedar is a most beloved material when it comes to wood roofing.

However, a question that many ask has to do with the style of the cedar roofs: what’s the difference between cedar shingles vs. cedar shakes?

There are a number of differences between the two different types of cedar roofing styles, and both can have a large impact on the maintenance, price, and longevity of your roof.

How Do Cedar Shakes Differ from Cedar Shingles?

Let’s break down the differences between cedar shakes and cedar shingles, as well as a few things that they have in common.

Appearance

Because of how they are made, one of the main differences between cedar shakes vs. shingles is in how they look.

Cedar shingles are sawn smoothly on both sides and are cut to a taper, which makes them uniform in appearance and gives them a flatter look as well. Shingles also span the entire surface of the roof without varying in their look.

Cedar shakes, on the other hand, have a much more rugged look to them with each shake being a little different from the rest. They are split off when produced, which gives them their own individuality.

Durability

Another differentiating factor between cedar shingles and cedar shakes is that shakes are much thicker than shingles. As a result, shakes tend to be much more durable and give the roof more depth when viewed from afar.

Because cedar shakes are thicker—made from a premium wood—they are also more resistant to impacts, making them less likely to break during high winds. Shingles, however, are not always made from the highest quality cedar and tend to break much easier.

Installation

The installation process from both cedar shakes and cedar shingles is also different. Cedar shakes usually require an extra step during installation to protect them from higher winds because, although they won't snap like shingles will, they can be torn out at the nail.

By adding a layer of felt paper between each shake, you can prevent shakes from being lifted. The extra layer prevents wind from blowing rain up beneath the shakes.

The Difference Between Real Shingles Vs. Cedar Shake (Synthetic)

Now that we’ve addressed the differences between cedar shake and cedar shingles, let’s explore the differences between cedar shingles and another modern alternative: synthetic cedar shake.

Maintenance

Synthetic cedar shakes are made for those who want all the stylistic beauty of cedar without any of the maintenance requirements. Synthetic shakes are made from high-quality, durable plastic that is invulnerable to many of the deteriorating factors that real cedar needs to be protected against. Therefore, unlike real shingle, synthetic shake  is naturally resistant to rot, warping, mold, mildew, fire, UV ray damage, insects, and more.

Protective Chemicals

Unlike real cedar shakes, which need to be chemically-protected with an applicant every 1-3 years, synthetic cedar shakes, such as the ones offered by CeDUR® Shake, have no such requirements.

With a synthetic cedar roof, you can enjoy a lifespan of over 50 years with no need for replacement whereas real cedar shingles, even perfectly maintained, may only last you 30 years at best.

Another benefit is that synthetic cedar shake roofing often has a better warranty—and adds more value to your home—than traditional cedar shingles.

Design Variety

The look of synthetic cedar is so identical to real cedar that it’s nearly impossible to tell the difference at a distance. However, unlike real shingles, there are a variety of different colors to choose from, especially when you opt for CeDUR® Shake’s roofing products. You get to choose from colors such as Golden Cedar, Walden, Live Oak, and Shiloh, which offer plenty of variety when it comes to style.

The Best Choice for a Cedar Roof is Synthetic Cedar, Hands Down

If you enjoy the look of real cedar roofing but are scared by the constant maintenance and overall price of real cedar shakes, synthetic cedar from CeDUR® Shake is the choice for you! 

With all the beauty, much more durability, and a fraction of the maintenance required, synthetic cedar is sure to please any cedar aficionado.

Contact us today to learn more about how you can transform your home!