A: While people often use these terms interchangeably, they’re actually different products. Cedar shingles are precision-sawn on both sides for a smooth, tailored appearance with consistent thickness. Cedar shakes are hand-split on at least one face, creating that distinctive rustic, textured character that many homeowners love. Both offer excellent protection, but they create very different aesthetic effects on your home.
A: It’s really about that perfect combination of beauty and performance. Cedar shingles have this warm, natural coloring that synthetic products try to imitate but never quite match. Beyond looks, cedar contains natural oils that resist insects and decay. It’s also an excellent insulator – helping keep homes cooler in summer and warmer in winter. Many of our clients tell us they love how their cedar develops character over time rather than just wearing out.
A: That’s a question we get often! Cedar is a renewable resource that requires significantly less processing energy than synthetic, man-made alternatives. The cedar industry in Canada has come a long way in sustainable forestry practices – we source our materials from suppliers committed to responsible harvesting methods. Cedar’s natural durability also means fewer replacements over time, reducing long-term environmental impact. Plus, at the end of its lifecycle, cedar is biodegradable, so it won’t end up in a landfill, taking decades to break down.
A: Absolutely! We specialize in both cedar roofing and siding installations. We’ve found that homes that incorporate cedar in both elements create a stunning, cohesive look. We also do partial installations – maybe you want cedar accents on just your gables or dormers. We’re happy to work with your vision, whether that’s a complete cedar exterior or strategic accents that add character to your home.
A: While it’s technically possible in rare situations, we recommend against it. In our experience, the best long-term results come from removing old materials first. This gives us the chance to inspect your roof deck for any hidden damage or moisture issues that could compromise your new cedar installation. That said, every home is different – we can assess your specific situation during our initial consultation and discuss the pros and cons of both approaches.
A: Historic restoration is actually one of our specialties! We take extra care to match original patterns and traditional installation techniques. Our team has worked on homes dating back to the early 1900s, and we understand the importance of maintaining historical integrity while incorporating modern waterproofing methods that weren’t available when these homes were built. We’re happy to share photos of our cedar shingle and shake restoration projects so you can see our attention to detail.
A: When properly installed and maintained, cedar roofing typically serves homeowners for 30-40 years, while cedar siding can last 40+ years in many climates. We’ve seen well-maintained cedar last even longer in ideal conditions. The key factors affecting longevity are the grade of cedar used (we recommend premium grades for maximum lifespan), proper installation with adequate ventilation, and regular maintenance. Your home’s specific exposure to sun, moisture, and temperature extremes also plays a role. Read more here!
A: Cedar shingles don’t require constant attention, but they do benefit from some care. We recommend periodic cleaning to remove debris, pollen, and anything that could trap moisture. In Southern Ontario, we suggest having cedar surfaces gently cleaned every 1-2 years. In our climate, a preservative treatment every 5-7 years helps maintain the wood’s natural oils and resistance properties. Many homeowners handle the basic cleaning themselves, but we offer maintenance services for those who prefer professional care.
A: Ontario can see some big storm systems, especially during the summer months. Cedar performs surprisingly well in these instances. When properly installed, cedar roofing can withstand winds up to 130 mph – that’s hurricane-force. The natural density of cedar also provides excellent impact resistance against hail. Unlike some synthetic materials that can crack in extreme cold or warp in intense heat, cedar handles temperature fluctuations gracefully. Our installation techniques include enhanced flashing and underlayment methods that maximize cedar’s natural weather resistance.
A: We wish we could give you a simple square-foot price, but cedar shingle installation costs really depend on your specific home. Factors include your roof’s complexity (number of valleys, dormers, and pitch), the grade of cedar you select, and whether we’re doing roofing, siding, or both. While cedar is certainly a premium material with upfront costs higher than basic asphalt or vinyl, many homeowners find the long-term value compelling when considering longevity and energy savings. We’d need to see your home to provide an accurate estimate, which we’re happy to do at no charge.
A: This is where looking beyond the initial price tag really matters. Premium cedar typically outlasts basic asphalt shingles by 10-15 years and offers significantly better insulation – we’ve had customers report noticeable differences in their heating and cooling bills. While some composite products advertise low maintenance, they simply can’t replicate cedar’s natural beauty and how it weathers gracefully over time. Cedar also tends to hold and even increase its value contribution to your home, while synthetics are often viewed as replaceable materials.
A: Based on our experience and feedback from real estate professionals we work with, cedar exteriors enhance not just curb appeal, but actual value. Homes with quality cedar roofing and siding tend to create that “wow factor” that helps properties stand out in competitive markets, while offering real benefits. Real estate listings often highlight cedar exteriors as a premium feature. Well-maintained cedar exteriors can add 5-7% to asking prices in Ontario – though of course, this varies by location and market conditions.
A: Our estimates are comprehensive and completely free. We’ll start with a conversation, get an idea of measurements, discuss your goals and preferences, and answer any questions you might have. Within a few days, you’ll receive a detailed proposal that breaks down material costs, labor, timeline, and any special considerations for your project. We don’t do high-pressure sales – we simply provide the information you need to make an informed decision about your home.
A: We currently serve locations across Southern Ontario, including Niagara, Haldimand, Lincoln, Brant, Hamilton, Burlington, Oakville, and we have a branch in the Muskoka area. If you’re just outside these areas, it’s still worth giving us a call – we are willing take on projects in neighboring communities depending on our current workload and schedule.
A: Like most quality contractors, we typically schedule projects several weeks in advance, especially during our busy season from March through October. Currently, our lead time for new installations is about 1-3 weeks. However, we understand and service emergencies at the earliest possible time.