Wood Shake and Shingle Roofing Guide

Wood roofing creates a natural, textured appearance that changes as it weathers. Cedar is the best-known choice, although species and regional availability vary. A successful wood roof depends on product grade, exposure, ventilation, fastening and moisture management. Homeowners also need to check wildfire rules and insurance requirements before choosing it.

Wood roofing at a glance

Best suited to	Traditional, coastal, mountain and craftsman-style homes where local code permits
Main choices	Sawn shingles and split or sawn shakes
Relative cost	Usually above standard asphalt shingles
Appearance	Natural variation that weathers toward gray unless finished and maintained
Key variables	Species, grade, treatment, exposure, ventilation, climate and workmanship

Wood shingles vs. wood shakes

Wood shingles

Shingles are generally sawn on both faces, producing a more uniform thickness and a comparatively tailored appearance. They work well where a regular coursing pattern is desired. Product grade affects the amount of clear, vertical-grain material and where defects are permitted.

Wood shakes

Shakes are thicker and may be hand-split, resawn or taper-sawn. Their deeper shadow lines create a more rustic profile. Because shake construction and exposure differ from shingles, underlayment and interlayment details must follow the current product instructions and local code.

Advantages

• Distinctive natural character: variation in grain, thickness and weathering gives each roof an individual appearance.
• Design flexibility: coursing patterns, butt thicknesses and factory finishes support traditional and contemporary designs.
• Repairable units: an experienced wood-roof specialist can replace isolated damaged pieces when the surrounding roof remains sound.
• Renewable raw material: sourcing, forestry certification, treatment and transport all affect the environmental profile.

Limitations and risks

Wood is more sensitive than inert roofing materials to trapped moisture, debris, shade and biological growth. It can split, curl or erode as it ages. Fire performance is also a major consideration: untreated wood may not be acceptable in wildfire-prone jurisdictions, and some insurers restrict coverage. Factory-applied fire-retardant or preservative treatments must be compatible with the specific product and supported by documentation.

Grades, labels and treatments

Do not compare proposals that say only “cedar.” Ask for the species, grade, length, thickness, manufacturing method and recognized grading label. The Cedar Shake & Shingle Bureau operates the Certi-label program and publishes application manuals. Pressure-impregnated preservative and fire-retardant products are distinct treatments; neither should be assumed from the roof’s appearance.

Climate and roof design

Wood needs a design that encourages drying. Persistent shade, overhanging vegetation, poor attic ventilation and blocked drainage can shorten service. Coastal exposure may influence fastener selection. Snow, wind and wildfire zones introduce additional attachment and assembly requirements. The minimum roof slope and exposure must come from the manufacturer, grading agency and local code—not from a generic rule.

Installation details that matter

• Correct spacing between pieces to allow natural movement
• Exposure and offset appropriate to the product grade and length
• Corrosion-resistant fasteners compatible with cedar extractives and the local environment
• Proper valleys, sidewalls, chimneys, eaves and roof penetrations
• Underlayment or interlayment installed for the specific shingle or shake system
• Ventilation and deck design that allow the assembly to dry

Maintenance

Inspect wood roofs regularly from safe locations, especially after wind or hail. Remove leaves and needles from valleys and gutters without damaging the surface. Trim branches that rub the roof and address drainage or ventilation issues. Avoid aggressive pressure washing, indiscriminate bleaching and film-forming coatings; inappropriate cleaning or finishes can damage fibers and trap moisture.

When does a wood roof need repair?

Individual splits or missing pieces may be repairable. Widespread erosion, curling, soft wood, failed fasteners or repeated leakage can indicate broader deterioration. Moss is not the only diagnostic sign, and a weathered gray color alone does not prove failure. Ask a contractor experienced with wood systems to distinguish appearance from loss of function.

Cost considerations

Wood normally costs more than basic asphalt because of material grade, sorting and skilled installation. Steep slopes, complex valleys, fire-treated products and old-roof disposal raise the price. Compare the same species and grade across bids, then review our roof replacement cost guide.

Questions for the contractor

• Which species, grade, label, length and thickness are included?
• Is the product preservative-treated, fire-retardant-treated, both or neither?
• Does the proposed assembly meet local wildfire and building requirements?
• Which fasteners, underlayment and valley details will be used?
• How should this roof be inspected, cleaned and maintained?

Sources and further reading

The Cedar Shake & Shingle Bureau publishes grading, installation and maintenance resources. The U.S. Forest Service Forest Products Laboratory also provides technical guidance on wood shake and shingle selection, installation and care. Current code and manufacturer instructions control the project.