How to choose the best cedar for your shakes and shingles
When it comes to cedar shakes and shingles, the choice of raw materials is a critical decision. Cedar is a popular material for roofing due to its natural beauty, durability, and resistance to insects and decay.
However, not all cedar is the same, and selecting the right type can make a significant difference in the longevity and performance of your roofing. In this guide, we will explore the factors you should consider when choosing the best cedar for your shakes and shingles.
Cedar wood species
Western Red Cedar
Western Red Cedar is a popular choice for shakes and shingles. It is known for its rich color and natural resistance to decay and insects. This species is widely available and offers excellent durability. It also is the best smelling of all the cedar species.
Alaskan Yellow Cedar
Alaskan Yellow Cedar is another option, although less common than Western Red Cedar. It has a lighter color and grays out even more evenly than its Western Red counterpart. It is also more stable in humid or sun-intensive regions.
Eastern white Cedar
We do not recommend using Eastern White Cedar for roofing, because the wood tends to break down more quickly than the Western Red. That said, it makes a phenomenal siding and gable-end product, and is often used to achieve a high-end, Cape Cod-style look.
Understanding cedar grades
Cedar shakes and shingles are available in different grades, which reflect the quality and appearance of the wood. The two primary grades are:
No. 1: Clear cedar, vertical grain
No. 1 Shingles are the highest quality grade, featuring minimal knots and imperfections. This premium cedar provides a clean, elegant appearance and is often chosen for upscale or traditional applications. No. 1 shakes may have up to 20% flat grain (which some contractors actually specify), unless we specify that they must be 100% Vertical Grain.
No. 2: Mixed-grain, limited knots
No. 2 Shingles are mixed-grain, with some knots and imperfections can give the roof a more rustic or casual look. It's typically more budget-friendly than clear cedar. Exposures may change to ensure the roof maintains a long lifespan.
Moisture content
Green cedar
Green cedar, also sometimes called fresh cedar, has a higher moisture content than kiln-dried cedar. This is very commonly used in untreated roofs, as the shakes or shingles will naturally dry out during the summer. Green cedar also allows for easy installation since the shakes or shingles will only shrink slightly, and there is low risk of buckling or cupping.
Kiln-dried cedar
Kiln-dried cedar has been dried in a controlled environment to a specific moisture content. This process reduces the risk of shrinkage and warping and may be preferred for roofing. The primary reason to kiln-dry a roof, however, is for overseas shipping.
Shingle or shake?
Shingles
While shakes and shingles are often confused with each other, there are some guidelines each type of cedar wood follows. Shingles are precisely cut and have a smoother, more uniform appearance. They are often preferred for a cleaner, more formal look.
Shakes
Hand-split shakes are split from a block and then re-sawn by hand, resulting in a rougher, more textured surface. They provide a more rustic and traditional appearance. Taper-sawn shakes are more like large shingles and are sawn on both sides.
Environmental considerations
Sustainable sourcing
Choose cedar that comes from responsibly managed forests. We partner with mills throughout the Pacific Northwest and Canada to source our cedar shakes with care. Sustainable sourcing helps protect natural habitats and ensures the availability of cedar for future generations. All wood that comes from Cedarwood is sustainably sourced.
Local climate and maintenance
Climate considerations
Consider your local climate conditions. All species of cedar are suitable for roofing, but Alaskan Yellow may be preferable in hot weather applications. In especially humid areas, CCA treatment may benefit the cedar and help to preserve the wood from decay. Proper ventilation, especially by using a cedar breather beneath the cedar installation, helps to further reduce moisture buildup and maintain the wood’s long lifespan.
Maintenance
Understand the maintenance needs of your chosen cedar. Our FAQs go into greater detail on how to care for cedar shakes. Generally, we recommend removing debris when it is dry by blowing or brushing, and we do not recommend pressure washing. Some types and slopes of roof may require more frequent cleaning, sealing, and protection against moss and rot.
Budget and long-term goals
Budget constraints
Your budget plays a significant role in your cedar selection. Higher-grade cedar and specialized cedar species tend to be more expensive. Lower-grade cedar, such as No. 2, can offer a budget-friendly cedar alternative while still offering a long lifespan. The lowest grade cedar may be used as an under course — installed beneath the finishing course of higher-grade shingles — which enables the property owner to expose more high-quality cedar.
Long-term goals
Consider your long-term goals for your roofing project. Are you looking for a durable, long-lasting solution, or is a more rustic, budget-friendly option? The investment in cedar roofing might cost more upfront, but its longer lifespan and natural beauty can justify this cost and protect a building better than artificial materials.
Consultation with experts
Professional advice
Seek advice from roofing professionals or cedar specialists. They can help you make the best decision based on your specific needs and local conditions. Decisions may include wood species, treatments or staining, and what quantity to order. We offer comprehensive bids for projects, plus a free sample box so that you can see and touch our products and compare them in any light or location.
Aesthetic considerations
For custom and luxury home builders and architects, aesthetic considerations require specific cedar species and cuts to achieve a certain look that is harmonious with the neighborhood and suits the client’s taste. If your client is looking to build a truly world-class property, slight details (edge trimming, clipping, re-butting, etc) can make a world of difference in the final appearance.
Which cedar is right for you?
Choosing the best cedar for your shakes and shingles is a crucial step in ensuring the longevity and performance of your roofing. Consider factors such as cedar grade, species, moisture content, shingle vs. shake, environmental impact, local climate, maintenance requirements, budget, and long-term goals.
By making an informed decision, consulting with experts, and prioritizing sustainability and quality, you can enjoy the timeless beauty and durability of cedar roofing for years to come. Your choice of cedar can significantly impact the aesthetics, function, and value of your home, making it a decision worth careful consideration.