Cedar Shake Roof Installation, Repair, and Replacement
Cedar shake roof installation gives a home a natural wood roof with texture and character, but it takes a roofer who knows wood. One call to Roofing Captain connects you with a local roofer who handles cedar roof installation, repair, and replacement.
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Cedar Shakes vs. Cedar Shingles
Cedar shakes are split from the log and have a rough, rustic texture. Cedar shingles are sawn on both sides, so they are thinner and smoother.
Both are wood roofs, and both need good ventilation and drainage to stay healthy. Cedar roofing contractors can help you choose based on looks, budget, and local rules.
Signs You Need Cedar Roof Repair
Wood roofs age gradually, and small problems are easier to fix early. Look for:
- Split, cupped, or curled shakes
- Missing shakes after wind storms
- Moss, algae, or debris holding moisture on the roof
- Soft or rotting wood, especially in shaded areas
- Worn flashing at valleys, chimneys, and skylights
How Cedar Shake Roof Repair Works
Wood shake roof repair usually means removing damaged shakes and slipping in new ones cut to fit. The roofer fastens them so they stay in line with the surrounding courses.
Repairs may also include flashing work and clearing debris from valleys. New shakes start out lighter in color and weather over time to blend with the rest of the roof.
Need cedar shake roofing?
Call now to be connected with a local roofer who handles this work.
Cedar Shake Roof Installation and Replacement
When repairs no longer keep up, cedar shake roof replacement may be the next step. A typical cedar roof installation includes these steps:
- Removal of the old roof and inspection of the decking
- Solid or spaced sheathing, depending on the system and local practice
- Underlayment and interlayment between shake courses
- Careful spacing between shakes to allow for wood movement
- Corrosion-resistant fasteners and new flashing
- Ridge vents or other ventilation so the wood can dry
Caring for a Cedar Roof
Keeping the roof clear of leaves, needles, and moss helps the wood dry after rain. Trimming overhanging branches also reduces shade and debris.
Some owners ask about cleaning and treatments. Ask your roofer which methods are safe for wood, since aggressive pressure washing can damage shakes.
What Affects Cedar Shake Roofing Cost
Cedar shake roofing contractors price each job after seeing the home. Key factors include roof size and pitch, shake grade and thickness, fire-treated versus untreated wood, tear-off and deck repairs, flashing and ventilation needs, and local code requirements.
How it works
Call the number on this page
Tell us what is happening with your roof: a leak, storm damage, an old roof or a new project.
Get connected to a local roofer
Your call goes to a roofing company that serves your area.
Get an inspection and estimate
The roofer explains the options. Ask for a written estimate and proof of license and insurance before any work starts.
Frequently asked questions
Can a few damaged cedar shakes be replaced?
Yes. Individual shakes can be removed and replaced without redoing the whole roof. New shakes will look lighter at first and weather over time.
Are cedar shake roofs allowed everywhere?
Not always. Some areas with wildfire risk, and some homeowner associations, limit wood roofs or require fire-treated shakes. Check local codes and HOA rules before you plan a new installation.
Should I repair or replace my cedar shake roof?
Repair works well when damage is limited to certain areas. If many shakes are split, thin, or rotting across the roof, replacement may make more sense. A cedar roofing contractor can assess the overall condition.
Can I pressure wash my cedar roof?
High-pressure washing can strip wood fibers and shorten the life of the roof. Ask a roofer about gentler cleaning methods suited to cedar.
What should I ask cedar shake roofing contractors?
Ask how many wood roofs they install or repair, what sheathing and interlayment they use, and how they handle ventilation. Also confirm licensing, insurance, and warranty terms.
How do I find cedar roofing companies near me?
Call Roofing Captain and mention that your home has a cedar shake or wood shingle roof. You will be connected with a local roofer, and you can ask about their experience with wood roofs before scheduling an inspection.