Cedar shakes and cedar shingles both bring the warmth of natural wood to a roof, but they are made and installed differently. Shakes are typically thicker and more textured, while shingles are thinner and more uniform. Those differences affect the finished look, installation details, and routine care. Knowing what each option involves can help you choose a roof that suits your home’s style and the amount of upkeep you’re prepared to handle.
Appearance and Character
Cedar shakes are split from wood, giving them a rugged surface and varied thickness. Their uneven edges create deeper shadow lines and a more rustic appearance. On a roof, shakes tend to look substantial and textured, which can complement cottages, traditional homes, and designs that call for a natural, handcrafted finish.
Cedar shingles are sawn, so they usually have smoother faces and more consistent thickness. Their cleaner lines create a neater, more uniform pattern than shakes. Shingles can still show cedar’s natural grain and color variation, but the overall effect is generally more tailored and less rugged.
Installation Differences
Shakes need careful installation because their thickness and irregular shape affect how they overlap. Roofers typically leave space between individual shakes and use a layered approach to manage water and allow ventilation. The roof’s underlayment and flashing details also matter; a sound design helps protect the roof deck and directs water away from vulnerable areas.
Shingles are thinner and more uniform, which makes it easier to maintain consistent courses and spacing. They still require correct exposure, fastening, and water-shedding details. Installation requirements vary by product and roof design, so ask a contractor to follow the manufacturer’s instructions and local building requirements rather than relying on a one-size-fits-all layout.
Upkeep and Roof Care
Both materials need periodic attention. Keep gutters and roof valleys clear, remove leaves and branches, and address nearby limbs that rub against the roof. Check for lifted or damaged pieces, signs of leaks, and areas where moisture or debris stays trapped. Good airflow beneath the roofing can also help the assembly dry between wet periods.
The texture of shakes may catch more debris than a smoother shingle surface, so the roof’s surroundings and drainage deserve particular attention. Neither style should be treated with coatings or cleaners unless the product maker and a qualified roofing professional approve them. A roof inspection can identify small concerns before they lead to interior water damage.
Choosing the Right Style
Choose shakes if you prefer a bold, irregular wood texture and are comfortable with the installation detail and care that a thicker product may require. Choose shingles if you want a smoother, more consistent pattern. In either case, compare the specific product’s grade, thickness, installation requirements, and maintenance guidance—not just the names used to describe it.
Before deciding, have a contractor inspect the roof structure, ventilation, and existing layers. Ask how the proposed system will handle water, what upkeep it needs, and which signs should prompt a service call. In Des Moines, discuss local weather exposure and applicable building requirements so the selected cedar roof is suited to the home as well as its appearance.
Cedar shakes offer a deeper, more rustic profile; cedar shingles provide a smoother, more uniform look. Both depend on correct installation and regular inspection to perform well. Compare specific products and your home’s needs with a qualified roofer. Des Moines Cedar Roofing can help you review cedar options and plan a suitable next step.