Wood shake roofing is one of the most timeless and natural-looking roof styles used throughout North America. Crafted from split wooden logs, wood shakes provide a rustic, textured appearance and offer unique performance characteristics compared to modern roofing alternatives. In this comprehensive guide, you’ll learn what wood shake roofs are, how they are made, the types of wood used, the pros and cons, costs, maintenance requirements, lifespan, and whether this roofing style is right for your home.
What Is a Wood Shake?
Definition and Construction
A wood shake is a type of roofing material created by splitting logs into individual pieces by hand or machine. Unlike wood shingles, which are sawn on both sides for a smooth finish, shakes are split on at least one side, giving them a rougher, more natural texture. Wood shakes are thicker than shingles and often vary slightly in width and shape, which contributes to their rustic charm.
How They Are Installed
Wood shakes are typically installed in overlapping rows, secured with nails and spaced to allow natural expansion and contraction. A felt or synthetic underlayment is used underneath to provide extra protection against moisture and wind-driven rain.
Types of Wood Used for Shake Roofing
Cedar
Western Red Cedar is the most popular material for wood shakes due to its natural resistance to decay, insects, and moisture. It weathers beautifully and provides excellent insulation.
Pine
Pine shakes are more common in the eastern United States but require pressure treatment to resist rot and pests. They are generally more affordable than cedar but have a shorter lifespan.
Cypress
Cypress is valued for its natural oils that make it highly resistant to decay. It’s a great choice in humid or termite-prone regions, though less widely available than cedar.
Redwood
Redwood shakes are less common but offer a deep reddish color and high durability. They are also insect-resistant and weather well over time.
Types of Wood Shakes
Hand-Split and Resawn
These shakes are split on one side for a rugged surface and sawn on the other side for a tighter fit. They offer a traditional, heavy-textured appearance that many homeowners prefer for rustic or historic homes.
Taper-Sawn Shakes
These are sawn on both sides for a more uniform, shingle-like appearance but are thicker than standard shingles. Taper-sawn shakes bridge the gap between wood shakes and shingles in terms of aesthetics and installation.
Benefits of Wood Shake Roofing
Natural Appearance
Wood shakes provide a warm, organic look that blends beautifully with natural landscapes and traditional architectural styles. No other roofing material replicates the deep texture and color variation of real wood.
Insulation Value
Wood has natural insulating properties that can help keep homes cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter. This may lead to energy savings over time compared to asphalt shingles.
Longevity with Proper Maintenance
When properly installed and maintained, cedar wood shakes can last 30 to 40 years. This makes them a competitive option compared to other mid-tier roofing materials.
Biodegradable and Eco-Friendly
Wood shakes are made from renewable resources and are biodegradable, which makes them more environmentally friendly than synthetic roofing options. Some manufacturers offer sustainably harvested wood products certified by the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC).
Challenges and Drawbacks
Maintenance Requirements
Wood shakes require regular maintenance to maximize their lifespan. This includes cleaning off moss and debris, checking for cracked or warped pieces, and applying wood preservatives or treatments every few years.
Fire Risk
Unless treated with fire retardant chemicals, wood shakes are flammable. Some building codes restrict or prohibit their use in wildfire-prone areas. Always check with your local jurisdiction and consider Class A fire-rated products.
Cost
Wood shake roofs tend to be more expensive than asphalt shingles and some metal roofing options. However, they offer a distinctive aesthetic that some homeowners find worth the investment.
Moisture Sensitivity
Wood absorbs water, which can lead to mold, rot, and swelling if not properly maintained. Adequate ventilation and underlayment systems are essential to prevent moisture problems.
Wood Shakes vs Wood Shingles
Thickness and Texture
Shakes are thicker and rougher, offering a more rugged look, while shingles are thinner, more uniform, and have a smoother finish. Shakes are more effective at shedding water but are harder to install.
Performance
Because of their irregular shape, shakes may have wider gaps, requiring better underlayment for waterproofing. Shingles offer tighter fits and are often preferred in high-rainfall areas.
Expected Lifespan of a Wood Shake Roof
Average Lifespan
With proper maintenance, cedar wood shake roofs can last 30 to 40 years. In dry, mild climates, they may last even longer. Without maintenance, that lifespan could drop to 15–20 years.
What Affects Longevity
- Climate and weather exposure
- Type and quality of wood used
- Installation quality
- Roof slope and drainage
- Maintenance frequency
Cost of Wood Shake Roofing
Average Costs
The cost of a wood shake roof typically ranges from $8 to $14 per square foot installed. This includes materials and labor. A 2,000 square foot roof may cost between $16,000 and $28,000.
Premium Options
Specialty woods like cypress or treated redwood shakes can drive costs higher, as can thicker hand-split shakes or enhanced fire-rated products.
Maintenance and Care
Annual Inspections
Inspect the roof once or twice a year for cracked, curled, or missing shakes. Pay special attention after storms.
Cleaning
Use a soft brush or blower to remove debris. Avoid pressure washing, which can damage the wood fibers.
Moss and Algae Treatment
Apply a moss and algae inhibitor every 2 to 3 years, especially in shaded or humid areas where moisture lingers.
Sealants and Preservatives
Some homeowners apply wood preservatives to repel water and UV rays. Check manufacturer guidelines before applying any treatment to ensure compatibility.
Fire Ratings and Building Code Compliance
Fire-Retardant Treatments
Class B and Class C wood shakes can be upgraded to Class A by using a fire-resistant underlayment and treated shakes. Always request documentation to ensure compliance.
Local Regulations
Some states and municipalities restrict untreated wood roofing in high fire zones. Be sure to check local codes before choosing wood shakes.
Ideal Homes and Climates for Wood Shake Roofs
Best Suited For
Wood shakes are ideal for:
- Cabins, lodges, and rustic homes
- Historic restorations or traditional styles
- Homes in temperate climates with low humidity
Less Ideal For
Wood shake roofs may not be the best option in:
- High-humidity coastal regions
- Areas with heavy rainfall or snowfall
- Regions with high wildfire risk
Environmental Impact
Sustainably Harvested Wood
Look for FSC-certified wood products to ensure your shakes are harvested from well-managed forests. Sustainable practices help reduce environmental impact and promote reforestation.
Recyclability
Unlike asphalt or composite shingles, wood shakes are biodegradable and can be composted or repurposed after use.
Conclusion: Is a Wood Shake Roof Right for You?
A wood shake roof offers unmatched natural beauty and traditional appeal. It provides excellent insulation, long-lasting durability, and a unique visual texture that synthetic options cannot replicate. However, it does come
