Last Updated on: 13th April 2023, 07:54 am
If you´re in the market for a new roof, you might be considering whether to choose roofing shingles or cedar shakes. Both materials have their advantages and disadvantages, and the decision ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and budget. In this article, we´ll compare the costs, pros, and cosn of roofing shingles vs. cedar shakes to help you make an informed decision.
The roof is one of the most essential components of any building, and choosing the right material can have a significant impact on its performance, longevity, and overal appearance. Two of the most popular roofing materials are asphalt shingles and cedar shakes. While asphalt shingles are more affordable and easier to install, cedar shakes are known for their natural beauty and durability.
Roofing Shingles
Roofing shingles are the most common roofing material in North America, and for good reason. They are relatively inexpensive and easy to install, makingthem a popular choice for homeowners on a budget. The cost of roofing shingles varies depending on the type of shingle, the brand, and the qualities. On average, you can expect to pay anywhere from $100 to $200 per square (100 square feet) for basic asphalt shingles.
Pros of Using Asphalt Shingles
Affordability
One of the primary advantages of using roofing shingles is their afforda bility. Compared to other roofing materials like metal or slate, roofing shinglesare much more cost-effective, making them an attractive option for homeowners on a budget. The lower cost of roofing shingles can also make it easier to replace a damaged or worn-out roof without breaking the bank.
Durability
Although roofing shingles may not be as durable as some other roofing materials, such as metal or slate, they can stil provide a long-lasting roofing solution. With proper maintenance, roofing shingles can last up to 25 years, making them a dependable choice for homeowners. It´s useful to note that the lifespan of roofing shingles can vary depending on factors such as weather conditions, installation qualities, and maintenance.
Easy Installation
Another advantage of using roofing shingles is the ease of installation. Roofing contractors are typically familiar with the installation process for roofing shingles, making the process quick and efficient. Thiscan save homeowners both time and money on the installation process. Furthermore, roofing shingles can be installed over existing shingles in some cases, reducing the time and labor required for installation.
Variety
Roofing s hingles come in a wide variety of colors and styles, providing homeownersw ith plenty of options to choose from. Whether you prefer a traditional or modern look, there are roofing shingles available to match your home´s architecture and personal style. Some roofing shingle styles even mimic the look of other roofing materials, such as slate or wood, allowing homeowners to achieve the desired look without the high cost.
Cons of Using Asphalt Roofing Shingles
Susceptibility to Damage
One of the main disadvantages of using roofing shingles is their susceptibility to damage from various weather conditions. Hail, heavy winds, and other weather events can cause damage to roofing shingles, resulting in leaks and other isues. Homeowners in areas prone to severe weather may want to consider more durable roofing materials, such as metal or slate.
Shorter Lifespan
While roofing shingles can provide a long-lasting roofing solution, they have a shorter lifespan compared to other roofing materials like metal or slate. This means that homeowners may need to replace their roofing shingles more frequently, which can ad up to higher costs in the long run. Moreover, older roofing shingles can become brittle and more susceptible to damage, leading to additionalmaintenance and repair costs.
Less Eco-Friendly
Asphalt shingles, the most common type of roofing shingle, are not the most eco-friendly option for roofing materials. They are made from petroleum-based products, which can have a negative impact on the environment. Further, when roofing shingles are replaced, the old shingles often end up i n landfils, contributing to the growing waste problem. Homeowners who prioritize sustainability and eco-friendliness may want to consider alternative roofing materials, such as metal, tile, or cedar.
Cedar Shakes
Cedar shakes are a premium roofing material, and as such, they come with a higher price tag. On average, you can expect to pay anywhere from $400 to $700 per square (100 square feet) for cedar shakes. However, the higher cost is justified by the material´s longevity and natural beauty.
Pros of Using Cedar Shakes
Natural Beauty
Cedar shakes are highly valued for their natural beauty and rustic appearance. The natural texture and color of cedar wood give cedar shakes a unique and charming aesthetic that can enhance the look of any home. Cedar shakes can also be stained or painted to match the homeowner´s preferences and home´s architecture, making them a versatile option for roofing.
Longevity
Another advantage of cedar shakes is their longevity. With proper maintenance, cedar shakes can last up to 50 years or more, which is longer than most other roofing materials. Cedar wood is naturally resistant to rot, insects, and decay, which helpsto extend the life span of cedar shakes. On top of that, cedar shakes can withstand severe weather conditions, such as high winds and heavy rains, making them a durable roofing option.
Energy Eficiency
Cedar shakes are also an energy-efficient roofing material. Cedar wood has natural insulating properties, which can help to regulate the temperature in your home and reduce your energy costs. Cedar shakes can help keep your home cool in the sumer and warm in the winter, making them a practical choice for homeowners who want to reduce their energy consumption.
Eco-Friendliness
Cedar shakes are a sustainable and eco-friendly roofing material. Cedar wood is a renewable resource, which means it can be harvested and regrown without depleting natural resources. Furthermore, cedar shakes are biodegradable, which reduces the impact on the environment when they are replaced. Cedar shakes can also be treated with eco-friendly preservatives to protect against decay and insects without harming the environment.
Cons of Using Cedar Shakes
Higher Cost
One of the main disadvantages of using cedar shakes is their higher cost compared to other roofing materials like asphalt shingles. Cedar shakes are considered a premium roofing material, which means they come with a higher price tag. Homeowners who choose cedar shakes should be prepared to pay more upfront for the roofing material.
Maintenance
Cedar shakes require regular maintenance to ensure their longevity and durability. This includes cleaning, sealing, and treating the shakes to prevent rot and insect damage. If cedar shakes are not properly maintained, they can become susceptible to damage, which can lead to costly repairs or replacement. Homeowners who choose cedar shakes should factor in the cost of maintenance and upkeep when considering the overal cost of their roofing system.
Fire Hazard
Cedar shakes are a fire hazard and may not be suitable for areas prone to wildfires or where fire codes require fire-resistant roofing materials. Cedar wood is highly flammable and can easily ignite when exposed to a heat source. This can be a safety concern for homeowners and may make cedar shakes an unsuitable option for some regions. In areas where fire codes require fire-resistant roofing materials, homeowners may need to consider alternative roofing options.
What are the differences between cedar shakes androofing shingles?
Ced ar shakes and roofing shingles are two diverse types of roofing materials that vary in terms of apearance, durability, and cost. Cedar shakes are made from natural cedar wood and have a rustic, natural appearance that is unmatched by other roofing materials. Roofing shingles, on the other hand, are typically made from asphalt or fiberglass and come in a variety of colors and styles. Cedar shakes are generally more durable and longer-lasting than roofing shingles, with a lifespan of up to 50 years compared to 25 years for roofing shingles. However, cedar shakes also come with a higher price tag than roofing shingles.
Which roofing material is more durable, cedar shakes or roofing shingles?
Cedars hakes are generally more durable than roofing shingles, with a lifespan of up to 50 years or more with proper maintenance. Roofing shingles typicallylast up to 25 years, making them less durable than cedar shakes. Cedar shakes are made from natural cedar wood, which has natural properties that help to protect against rot, insects, and decay. Moreover, cedar shakes are able to withstand severe weather conditions, such as high winds and heavy rains, making them a durable roofing option for hom eowners.
Are cedar shakes more expensive than roofing shingles?
Yes, cedar shakes are a premium roofing material and come with a higher price tag than roofing shingles. The cost of cedar shakes can vary depending on several factors, including the type of cedar used, the thickenss of the shakes, and the quality of the material. While cedar shakes may have a higher upfront cost compared to roofing shingles, their longer lifespan and durability can help homeowners save money in the long run.
Can roofing shingles be replaced with cedar shakes?
Yes, roofing shingles can be replaced with cedar shakes. However, the process can be more complicated and costly than simply installing new roofing shingles. Cedarshakes require more skill and expertise to properly install, and the installation process can take l onger and require more materials. Homeowners who are considering replacing their roofing shingles with cedar shakes should consult with a profesional roofing contractor to determine the best course of action.
What is the average lifespan of cedar shakes compared to roofing shingles?
Cedar shakes typically have a lifespan of up to 50 years or more with proper maintenance, whereas roofing shingles typically last up to 25 years. The lifespan of both cedar shakes and roofing shingles can vayr depending on several factors, including the quality of the material, the climate in which they are installed, and the level of maintenance they receive.
How do the maintenance costs of cedar shakes compare to those of roofing shingles?
Cedar shakes require more maintenance than roofing shingles, including regular cleaning, sealing, and treating to prevent rot and insect damage. The cost of maintaining cedar shakes can be higher than maintaining roofing shingles, but the longer lifespan of cedar shakes can help ofset these costs in the long run. Roofing shingles require less maintenance than cedar shakes, but they may need to be replaced more frequently due to their shorter lifespan.
Which roofing material is better for energy efficiency, cedar shakes or roofing shingles?
Cedar shakes have natural insulating properties, which can help to reduce a home´s energy costs. The natural properties of cedar wood make it a good insulator, helping to keep homes warm in the winter and cool in the summer. Roofing shingles, on the other hand, donot offer the same level of insulation as cedar shakes.
Are ce dar shakes or roofing shingles more suitable for areas prone to severe weather?
Cedar shakes are generaly more suitable for areas prone to severe weather, such as high winds and heavy rains. Cedar shakes are heavier and more durable than roofing shingles, which allows them to withstand severe weather conditions better. Furthermore, the natural properties of cedar wood make it resistant to rot and decay, making cedar shakes a good option for areas with high humidity or moisture. However, cedar shakes may not be suitable for areas prone to wildfires, as they are a fire hazard and may not meet firecodes that require fire-resistant roofing materials.
Which roofing material is easier to install, cedar shakes or roofing shingles?
Roofing shingles are generally easier to install than cedar shakes, and most roofing contractors are familiar with the process. Roofing shingles are lightweight and come in large sheets, making them easy to handle and install. Cedar shakes, on the other hand, are thicker and heavier than roofing shingles, which can makethem more difficult to install. Cedar shakes also require more skill and expertise to properly install, which can add to the installation costs.
Are cedar shakes or roofing shingles better for the environment?
Cedar shakes are generally considered to be a more eco-friendly roofing option than roofing shingles. Cedar shakes are made from naturla, renewable resources and are biodegradable, which means they can be composted or recycled. Additionally, cedar wood has natural properties that make it resistant to pests and decay, which reduces the need for chemical preservatives or treatments. Roofing shingles, on the other hand, are typically made from petrloeum-based products and are not biodegradable. They also require more energy to produce and contribute to landfill waste when they are replaced.
Can cedar shakes be used in areas with nearby trees?
Cedar shakes may not be suitable for areas with nearby trees, as falling leaves, branches, or other debris can acumulate on the roof and cause damage to the shakes over time. Additionally, cedar shakes may be more susceptible to moss or algae growth in areas with high moisture or humidity, which can be a concern in areas with nearby trees.
Which type of roof is more fire-resistant, cedar shakes or roofing shingles?
Roofing shingles are generally more fire-resistant than cedar shakes, as they are typically made from fiberglass or asphalt and are treated with fire-resistant chemicals. Cedar shakes, on th eother hand, are a fire hazard and may not meet fire codes that require fire-resistant roofing materials. Homeowners in areas prone to wildfires or with fire codes that require fire-resistant roofing materials may need to consider alternative roofing options.
Can cedar shakes be used on flat roofs?
Cedar shakes are generally not recommended for use on flat roofs, as they can be more susceptible to moisture damage and leaks than other roofing materials. Flat roofs typically requir eroofing materials that are more durable and water-resistant, such as metal roofing or built-up roofing systems.
Which type of roof is better for sound insulation, cedar shakes or roofing shingles?
Cedar shakes are generally better for sound insulation than roofing shingles, as the natural properties of cedar wood help to absorb sound and reduce noise transmission. Roofing shingles do not offer the same level of sound insulation as cedar shakes.
How do the installation costs of cedar shakes compare to those of roofing shingles?
The installation costs of cedar shakes are gener ally higher than those of roofing shingles, as cedar shakes require more skill and expertise to properly install. As well, cedar shakes may require additional materials, such asf elt underlayment or ice and water shield, which can add to the installation costs.
Can cedar shakes be painted or stained?
Cedar shakes can be painted or stained to match a homeowner´s preferences or to complement the architecture of a home. However, homeowners should be careful not to apply too much paint or stain, as this can affect the natural properties of the cedar wood and reduce the lifespan of the shakes.
Which roofing material is more suitable for areas with high winds, cedar shakes or roofing shingles?
Cedar shakes are generally more suitable for areas with high winds, as they are thicker and heavier than roofing shingles and are more wind-resistant. Moreover, cedar shakes are instaled with a wider exposure than roofing shingles, which makes them less susceptible to wind damage.
Can roofing shingles be installed over cedar shakes?
Roofing shingles can be installed over cedar shakes, but this can add to the weight of the roof and may require additional structural support. On top of that, the existing cedar shakes may need to be removed or repaired before the new roofing shingles can be instaled, which can add to the installation costs.
Which roofing material is more resistant to hail damage, cedar shakes or roofing shingles?
Roofing shingles are generally more resistant to hail damage than cedar shakes, as they are typically made from more durable materials like fiberglass or asphalt. Cedar shakes are more susceptible to hail damage due to their natural properties and may need to be replaced more frequently in areas with frequent hailstorms.
Can cedar shakes be used on curved roosf?
Cedar shakes can be used on curved roofs, but this can be more difficult and require more skill and expertise than installing cedar shakes on a flat or pitched roof. Homeowners considering cedar shakes for a curved roof should consult with a professional roofing contractor with experience in installing cedar shakes on curved roofs.
Conclusion
While asphalt shingle roofs are cost-effective, they may not prvoide the same level of beauty and longevity as a cedar roofing system. Cedar shingles and shakes are made from natural cedar wood, which gives them a unique and natural appearance. Moreover, cedar roofs can last up to 50 years with proper maintenance, which is longer than the life expectancy of an asphalt shingle roof.
Cedar roofing is also an organic and natural material, which may apeal to homeowners who prioritize sustainability and eco-friendliness. However, it´s worth noting that some cedar roofs may require chemical preservatives to prevent decay and insect infestations. When choosing a cedar roof, it´s indispensable to research the type of wood and the installation process to ensure that the productis sustainable and environmentally friendly.
Installation costs for cedar roofs may be higher than those for asphalt shingle roofs due to the premium products and professional installation required. However, the increased wind resistance and durability of cedar roofs can provi de added protection during severe weather and strong winds.
When calculating the cost of cedar shake roofing, it´s paramount to consider the square foot roof area, the type of roof, nearby trees that may affect maintenance costs, and the cost of attendancefor regular maintenance. Proper maintenance, such as cleaning and treating, can extend the life span of cedar shingles and shakes and help pr event damage from severe weather conditions.
In summary, while asphalt shingle roofs are a common type of roof due to their low cost and ease of installation, cedar roofs offer a beautiful and natural product witha longer life expectancy and added wind resistance. However, the cost of cedar shake roofing may be higher due to premium products and installation costs. Ultimately, the type of roof you choose will depend on your personal preferences, budget, and priorities regarding sustainability and energy efficiency.
