Cedar Shake Roofing

Cedar shakes commonly last 30 to 50 years and cedar shingles 30 to 40 when they are installed and maintained well. In the Carolinas, humidity is what shortens a cedar roof, so ventilation and upkeep matter as much as the wood itself.

Often, yes. Split, cupped, or missing shakes can be replaced one at a time, and moss and debris can be cleared before they cause rot. Replacement makes sense when the wood has worn thin or gone soft across most of the roof. We inspect first and show you photos of what we found.

Shakes are split, so they are thicker with a rougher, more rustic texture, and they tend to last longer. Shingles are sawn, so they are thinner, smoother, and more uniform, and usually cost less. Both are Western red cedar laid in overlapping courses.

More than asphalt, less than people fear. Keep leaves and debris off the roof and out of the gutters, treat moss and algae early, and have the roof looked at about twice a year and after big storms. We will lay out a realistic upkeep plan before you choose cedar.

It is worth dealing with. Moss holds moisture against the wood and speeds up rot, especially on shaded or north-facing slopes. Caught early, it can be cleaned and treated. Left for years, it usually means replacing the shakes underneath.

Untreated cedar is not as fire resistant as asphalt, metal, or tile. Fire-retardant-treated cedar is available, and some neighborhoods, HOAs, and insurers have requirements. We will talk through what applies to your home before we quote.

It depends on shakes versus shingles, the grade and thickness, the size and pitch of the roof, how many old layers come off, and the ventilation and flashing it needs. Repairs cost far less than replacement. After we inspect, you get a written, itemized proposal before any work starts.

Yes, across our North Carolina and South Carolina markets. Cedar is specialty work, so a senior member of our team reviews every cedar project before we quote it. Share your address and we will set up a consultation.