Roofing is one of the most important parts of your home. It’s the first line of defense against the elements, keeping you safe from rain, wind, sun, and snow. But just because a roof is functional doesn’t mean it can’t also look good. When it comes to choosing the right roofing material for your home, it’s important to consider what will work best for both the appearance of your home and your practical needs. One such consideration could be a wood shake roof vs a shingle roof, a more traditional option.
Each type has its own benefits and unique style, and understanding their differences can help you make the best choice for your home. In some cases, a wood shake roof can really enhance the architecture of your house and blend well with the natural surroundings. On the other hand, a shingle roof might be more practical for other types of homes or settings.
Let’s explore the differences between a shake roof and a shingle roof, so you can decide which is right for you.
Comparing the Look: Wood Shake vs. Shingle Roof
When it comes to the appearance of your roof, there are a few significant differences between a cedar shake roof and a shingle roof. The look of your roofing material has a big impact on your home’s curb appeal, which is how your home appears to others when viewed from the street.
Wood Shake Roofs
Wood shake roofs are made from natural wood, often cedar, giving them a rustic, textured look. The natural variations in the wood mean that each shake is unique, resulting in a roof with a lot of character. Cedar shake roofs have an uneven, rough appearance, which gives them a natural, handcrafted look that can be very appealing.
They work especially well for cottages, cabins, and homes in wooded areas or rural settings, where their rustic style can blend well with the surroundings. The rich color of cedar wood and its gradual aging to a silvery gray can create a very attractive, timeless appearance that is hard to replicate with other roofing materials.
Shingle Roofs
Shingle roofs, particularly those made from asphalt shingle, have a more uniform look compared to wood shake roofs. Shingle roofs are flat, evenly cut, and come in a variety of colors. They can be used to create a clean, classic appearance that works well with many different architectural styles.
Asphalt shingles, also known as composite or architectural shingles, are popular for suburban homes and can be found in a range of designs and colors, allowing homeowners to choose an option that best matches the look of their house. While shingle roofs may not have the same natural, handcrafted appearance as wood shake, they do offer a clean, consistent look that many homeowners appreciate.
Choosing Between the Two
The natural wood look is something that can’t be easily replicated with synthetic materials, making it a great choice for homeowners who want their home to stand out. But if you prefer a more polished, uniform appearance, a shingle roof might be a better choice. Shingle roofs work well with many different styles of homes and can help achieve a neat, classic look.
Durability and Maintenance: Wood Shake Roof vs Shingles
Another important factor to consider when choosing a roofing material is durability. You want your roof to protect your home for years to come, and the type of roofing material you choose can impact how long your roof will last and how much maintenance it will need.
Cedar Shake Roof Durability and Maintenance
A wood shake roof tops out at 30 years if properly maintained, but it does require more upkeep compared to other roofing materials. Wood is a natural material, which means that it can be susceptible to damage from moisture, insects, and mold. To keep a cedar shake roof in good condition, it needs to be regularly inspected and maintained.
This means cleaning off debris, ensuring proper ventilation, and sometimes applying treatments to protect the wood from moisture and pests. While cedar shake roofs are beautiful, they do require dedication from the homeowner to keep them looking and performing well. If you are willing to put in the effort to maintain it, a cedar shake roof can last for decades and continue to look beautiful as it ages.
Asphalt Shingle Roof Durability and Maintenance
Shingle roofs, particularly asphalt shingle roofs, are known for being more low-maintenance compared to wood shake roofs. Asphalt shingles are manufactured to resist a wide range of weather conditions, including rain, wind, and even hail. They are also resistant to pests and mold, making them easier to take care of. With proper installation and minimal maintenance, an asphalt shingle roof can last 30 years or more.
Asphalt shingles do not require as much regular maintenance as cedar shake roofs, making them a popular choice for homeowners who want a reliable roof without the added upkeep. They are also easier to repair, as damaged shingles can often be replaced individually without needing to replace a larger section of the roof. They are also more resistant to fire than cedar shingles, although there are additives that can help somewhat.
Installation Differences: Shake Roof vs. Shingle Roof
Depending on how the cedar shake roof was installed, the time frame could be altered. With skip-sheathing, tearing off the cedar shingles must be done manually because there is no decking to help with prying shakes up. You also need to make sure that no debris falls into the exposed attic.
The 1×4 boards can be kept in place if they are still in good shape. If the additional weight isn’t an issue, roof decking can be installed right over the top. This can cut down on the cost of dumping waste materials and the time to remove the skip-sheathing.
Compared to cedar shakes, asphalt shingles are generally easier to tear off and replace. They’re typically installed over a solid roof deck, so there’s no need to worry about skip-sheathing. During removal, roofing contractors will use shingle removal tools and roofing shovels to strip away the old shingles layer by layer.
This process can be faster and more straightforward than dealing with cedar shakes, but it still requires skill and precision to ensure a smooth and thorough tear-off. Both cedar shake and asphalt shingle tear-offs require careful planning and execution. Whether you’re dealing with skip-sheathing or a solid roof deck, it’s essential to hire experienced roofing professionals who know how to handle the job with care.
From there, the installation of the asphalt shingles can begin. Flashing around the chimney, vents, skylight, and other openings should be checked to see if they are in good shape, need to be replaced, or can just be covered by new flashing.
When to Choose Natural Wood Shingle Roofs and When to Choose Shingle Roofing
Choosing between a natural wood shingle roof and a shingle roof often comes down to your personal preferences, your budget, and the style of your home. If you love the natural, rustic appearance of wood shake and you want your home to stand out, a cedar shake roof may be the perfect choice. Cedar shakes work particularly well with homes in natural or wooded settings, as they blend beautifully with the surroundings.
If you’re willing to invest in the maintenance required to keep a wood shake roof in good condition, it can be a beautiful and long-lasting choice for your home. On the other hand, if you prefer a roof that is low-maintenance and cost-effective, an asphalt shingle roof might be a better fit.
Shingle roofs are versatile and can work well with a variety of architectural styles, from traditional to modern. They provide a clean, uniform appearance and require less upkeep compared to wood shake roofs. If you’re looking for a practical, budget-friendly roofing option that still looks great, an asphalt shingle roof is a great choice.
Whether you’re looking for a roof that offers a classic, rustic appearance or a practical, low-maintenance solution, Warner Roofing is here to help. We specialize in both wood shake and asphalt shingle roofs, and our experienced team can guide you in choosing the best option for your home.
Contact Warner Roofing today to learn more about new roof installations, roof tear-offs, and roofing repairs. Let us help you create the perfect roof that will keep your home safe and looking great for years to come.
