When it comes to roofing type, style, and color, you have a laundry list of options to choose from. But few can match the unique, elegant look of a wood shake roof.
Americans have been using shake shingles to keep their homes warm and dry since the colonial era—and today, they’re better than ever before.
While our team still provides expert installation of cedar shakes, synthetic shakes offer the look of a classic shake roof without the issues wooden roofs present.
Still, if you’re looking for a roof that will stand out in the crowd, you’ve come to the right place. Here’s everything you need to know about wood shake and synthetic shake roofing…
The rustic, earthy appearance of cedar shakes and an abundant supply of American lumber made cedar shakes a popular roofing material for centuries.
And while real wood shakes are in decline for reasons we’ll explain later, they’re still available today.
Along with their outstanding beauty, cedar shakes provide excellent insulation and efficiency and can last up to 30 years.
But before you get hooked on the look of a genuine wood roof, let’s explore why they’ve gone out of style…
Despite their old-world charm, cedar wood shakes tend to be a serious commitment. Real wood shakes are prone to hail, wind, and weather damage. And while modern cedar is fire-resistant, Colorado wildfires are still a serious threat.
Shakes can be easily replaced, but of course, this means more maintenance than other roofing types such as asphalt or metal.
Fortunately, synthetic shakes have been designed to remedy those issues without compromising appearances.
Comprised of a woven fiberglass base layer, a waterproof membrane, and multiple layers of ceramic-impregnated composite, shake-style roofs are the new and improved iteration of traditional wood shakes.
Unlike cedar shakes, shake-style synthetic roofs offer exceptional UV protection, durability, Class A fire resistance, and a wide variety of color and style options.
While we pride ourselves on offering cedar wood shake installation to this day, we typically recommend shake-style synthetic shingles.
Cedarwood simply can’t keep up with the four-season durability of synthetic shakes. Moreover, you’ll have a vast selection of color and style options that can’t be replicated with wood shingles.
With that said, let’s take a closer look at the pros and cons of both cedar wood shakes and shake-style synthetic shingles.
The bottom line is this: while you won’t get the same look from a synthetic roof in comparison to a wood shake roof, you’ll get a lot more bang for your buck.
Still, if you’ve got your heart set on cedar wood shakes, trust the experts at Arapahoe to get the job done right the first time.
With over 50 years of local experience, our team can help you find the perfect combination of form and function for your new roof.
Wood shakes provide unparalleled aesthetic beauty and sustainability
Wood shake roofs require frequent maintenance (but can last up to 25 years)
Shake-style synthetic roofs are the preferred choice for today’s homeowners
Shake-style synthetic roofs offer better durability, affordability, and fire resistance
Shake-style synthetic roofs sacrifice the appearance and sustainability of real wood for an all-around improvement in performance
Our roofing experts will help you find the perfect solution for your home
