At ASAP Roofing & Exteriors, we work with a wide range of roofing materials—but few match the natural beauty and timeless charm of cedar shake roofing. If you’re considering this premium material for your home in Utah, it’s important to understand the benefits, maintenance requirements, and potential drawbacks before making your investment.
In this guide, we’ll break down everything you should know about cedar shake roofs to help you make the right decision.
🌲 What Are Cedar Shakes?
Cedar shakes are hand-split wooden roofing materials made from natural cedar logs, usually Western Red Cedar or Alaskan Yellow Cedar. Unlike uniform shingles, shakes have a rugged, textured look that gives homes a warm, natural appearance.
There are two main types:
- Hand-Split Shakes: Thicker and more rustic, split by hand or machine for a rugged texture
- Taper-Sawn Shakes: More uniform, cut on both sides for a smoother, refined finish
✅ Benefits of Cedar Shake Roofing
1. Natural Beauty and Curb Appeal
Cedar shakes deliver an unmistakable high-end, rustic look that enhances any architectural style—from mountain lodges to luxury estates.
- Rich, natural wood tones
- Weathered patina over time for character
- Adds resale value and elegance to any home
2. Strong Insulating Properties
Cedar is a natural insulator, helping to:
- Maintain indoor comfort
- Reduce heating and cooling costs
- Perform better than asphalt in both summer and winter
3. Durable and Impact-Resistant
When properly installed and maintained, cedar shake roofs can last 30–40 years and are highly resistant to:
- Hail impact
- High winds
- Heavy snow loads common in Utah
4. Environmentally Friendly
Cedar is a renewable and biodegradable resource, making it a solid choice for environmentally conscious homeowners. Plus:
- Fewer carbon emissions during production
- Can be sustainably harvested
- Recyclable at end-of-life
❌ Things to Know Before Choosing Cedar Shake Roofing
While cedar shake roofing offers plenty of benefits, it’s not for everyone. Consider the following:
1. Requires Regular Maintenance
Cedar is a natural material, so it’s prone to:
- Moss and mildew growth
- Warping or splitting in extreme weather
- UV degradation without proper treatment
You’ll need to clean, treat, and inspect your cedar shake roof every few years to maximize its lifespan.
2. Higher Upfront Cost
Cedar shakes are a premium roofing option, with higher installation and material costs compared to asphalt or metal roofing.
- However, they can offer long-term value due to durability and visual appeal
3. Fire Risk (Unless Treated)
Untreated cedar is not naturally fire-resistant, which may be a concern in fire-prone areas. But modern cedar shakes are available with:
- Class A fire-rated treatments
- Fire-retardant coatings required by building codes in many areas
4. Skilled Installation Required
Installing cedar shake roofing is not a DIY project. It requires:
- Precision spacing and ventilation
- Proper underlayment and flashing
- A contractor experienced with wood roofing—like ASAP Roofing & Exteriors
🏠 Is Cedar Shake Roofing Right for You?
Cedar shake roofs are ideal if you:
- Want a premium, natural aesthetic
- Are prepared to invest in ongoing maintenance
- Live in a dry or moderately humid climate
- Want long-term performance with old-world charm
If you’re unsure, we can compare cedar to alternatives like synthetic shakes, metal roofs, or architectural asphalt shingles during your free consultation.
🔨 Why Choose ASAP Roofing & Exteriors for Cedar Shake Installation
With years of experience across Utah, we understand the specific requirements of installing and maintaining cedar shake roofing in a climate that includes snow, ice, and UV exposure.
We offer:
- Free roof inspections and consultations
- Cedar shake installation, replacement, and treatment services
- Fire-rated cedar shake options
- Skilled craftsmanship and local experience
📞 Schedule Your Cedar Shake Roofing Consultation Today
📞 Call 385-222-7119
🌐 asaproofingpros.com
📍 Serving Salt Lake City, Lehi, Provo, Park City, and more
Get the Roof That Stands Out—and Lasts
Cedar shake roofing isn’t just a material—it’s a statement of craftsmanship, natural beauty, and performance. Let us help you bring it to life with expert installation and guidance every step of the way.
👉 Schedule your free cedar roofing estimate today with ASAP Roofing & Exteriors.