Quick Introduction

Cedar shake roofs have earned their reputation as a premium roofing choice that makes neighbors stop and take notice. These distinctive roofs feature hand-split or sawn cedar wood pieces that create a natural, rustic appearance unlike any other roofing material. But beyond their striking good looks, cedar roofs offer numerous practical benefits that make them worth considering for your home. While they’re not the right choice for every homeowner or budget, understanding their unique advantages can help you decide if the investment makes sense for your particular situation.

The Aesthetic Appeal of Cedar Roofing

Unmatched Natural Beauty

Cedar roofs possess a warmth and character that manufactured materials simply can’t replicate. Each shake or shingle has its own unique grain pattern, texture, and color variations that create a roof with genuine personality. This natural beauty ages gracefully over time, developing a distinguished silver-gray patina that many homeowners find even more appealing than the original golden hue. Whether your home is a rustic mountain retreat, a classic colonial, or a modern architectural design, cedar complements virtually any style with its organic appeal.

Curb Appeal and Home Value

When it comes to making a strong first impression, few roofing materials can match cedar’s impact. Real estate professionals consistently rank cedar roofs among the top exterior features for enhancing curb appeal. This isn’t just about looking good—it translates to real value. Homes with cedar roofs often command higher selling prices and attract more buyer interest than properties with standard roofing. Even if you’re not planning to sell soon, this increased value provides excellent return on your roofing investment over time.

Performance and Durability Benefits

Weather Resistance and Longevity

Despite its natural origins, cedar is remarkably tough against the elements. A properly installed and maintained cedar roof can withstand winds exceeding 120 mph and holds up exceptionally well against hail impact compared to many alternatives. Cedar’s natural resilience means you can expect 30+ years of service from your roof, with many well-maintained cedar roofs lasting 50 years or more. This impressive lifespan makes the higher upfront cost easier to justify when calculated over decades of protection.

Natural Insulation Properties

Cedar possesses impressive natural insulation qualities that can benefit your home year-round. The cellular structure of cedar wood creates tiny air pockets that help keep your home cooler in summer and warmer in winter. Homeowners with cedar roofs often report energy savings of up to 20% on cooling costs during hot months. This energy efficiency not only reduces your utility bills but also decreases your home’s overall environmental footprint.

Environmental Advantages

Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Choice

In an era of increasing environmental awareness, cedar stands out as a renewable, biodegradable roofing option. Unlike petroleum-based asphalt shingles or energy-intensive metal production, cedar shakes come from sustainably managed forests where new trees are planted to replace harvested ones. At the end of its long life, a cedar roof won’t contribute to landfill problems for centuries like synthetic materials—it will naturally decompose. Cedar processing also requires significantly less energy than manufacturing composite or metal roofing materials.

Chemical-Free Living

Cedar contains natural oils and tannins that protect it from insects and decay without added chemicals. For homeowners concerned about indoor air quality or those with chemical sensitivities, this natural protection represents a healthier alternative to roofing materials that may off-gas synthetic compounds. Your cedar roof won’t introduce harmful VOCs or other concerning substances into your home environment.

Understanding Cedar Roof Options

Types and Grades of Cedar

Cedar roofing comes in both shakes (which have a more rustic, hand-split appearance) and shingles (which are sawn for a smoother, more uniform look). Within these categories, you’ll find three main grades that affect both appearance and performance:

• Common grade cedar is the most affordable option but may contain more knots and natural imperfections.
• Select grade offers a balance of quality and value, comprising about 80% straight grain wood.
• Premium 100% straight grain cedar represents the top tier, providing maximum durability and a cleaner appearance, though at a higher price point. Your choice among these options will depend on your aesthetic preferences, budget, and climate conditions.

Climate Considerations

Cedar performs beautifully in many climates, but its longevity can be affected by your specific environmental conditions. It thrives in moderate climates and can handle seasonal temperature swings with ease. In very humid environments, cedar may require more frequent maintenance to prevent moss or mildew growth. Your roofing contractor can help you understand how cedar typically performs in your region and what maintenance schedule would be appropriate.

The Investment Reality

Understanding the Costs

Let’s be transparent about the financial commitment—cedar shake roofs typically cost between $14-$18 per square foot installed. For an average home with 2,000 square feet of roofing, you’re looking at an investment of $35,000-$50,000. This significant upfront cost is offset by cedar’s impressive lifespan, enhanced home value, and energy efficiency benefits, but it remains an important consideration. Learn more about the costs of a cedar roof here!

Several factors affect your final price, including the grade of cedar you choose, your roof’s complexity (dormers, valleys, and steep pitches increase labor costs), and your geographic location. Additionally, cedar shakes are typically made to order, which can mean waiting 3-8 weeks for materials—an important timing consideration for your project.

Maintenance Requirements

A cedar roof is not a set-it-and-forget-it solution. To realize its full lifespan potential, you’ll need to commit to regular maintenance. This typically includes cleaning debris from the roof surface 1-2 times per year, professional inspections after major storms, and occasional treatments with preservatives every few years. While this maintenance adds to the lifetime cost, it’s essential for protecting your investment and ensuring decades of performance.

Making the Right Decision for Your Home

Weighing the Benefits Against Limitations

Cedar roofing offers remarkable beauty, durability, energy efficiency, and environmental benefits, but it’s important to consider potential drawbacks as well. These include the premium price point, regular maintenance requirements, and the lack of manufacturer material warranties (unlike asphalt or metal roofing, cedar’s natural origins mean warranties typically cover installation workmanship only).

The aging process is another consideration—while many homeowners love the weathered silver-gray patina that develops over time, others prefer the fresh golden appearance of new cedar. Understanding these changes and having realistic expectations will help you enjoy your cedar roof throughout its lifecycle.

Finding Qualified Installation Professionals

If you decide cedar is right for your home, selecting the right contractor becomes crucial. Cedar installation requires specialized knowledge and experience that not all roofers possess. Look for contractors with extensive cedar-specific experience, solid references, and strong workmanship warranties (ideally 10+ years). Ask to see examples of their cedar installations, both new and aged, to understand how their work stands the test of time.

Conclusion

A cedar roof represents more than just a covering for your home—it’s a statement of quality, sustainability, and natural beauty that few other materials can match. While the higher initial cost and maintenance needs require careful consideration, the exceptional aesthetic appeal, impressive durability, and energy-saving benefits make cedar a compelling choice for homeowners looking for a premium roofing solution. By understanding both the advantages and responsibilities that come with cedar roofing, you can make a confident decision about whether this classic, distinctive option is the right investment for your home.