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Most cedar roof homeowners know that they have a cedar roof, but the actual “pieces” on their roof are sometimes interchangeably called cedar “shakes” or “shingles”.
But is there a difference between a shake and a shingle?
The simple answer is, yes. There is. You can tell by the geometry of the wooden piece, which is based on the way it is manufactured.
“Traditionally, a shake is hand-split from a log using a mallet and froe to create a tapered, wedge shape with a rough, rustic look on the sun-facing side. Wooden shingles are sawn on both sides and thinner than shakes so the taper is less obvious, and they have a more even appearance.” (source: eDecks)
The major differences between a cedar roof shingle and a cedar roof shake are the following:
Shakes are more rough and uneven looking; shakes are cleaner and more even looking. It is a matter of personal choice and taste when it comes to the finished look.
Shakes are slightly more expensive than shingles to install, but shingles provide more cost-savings on the long run due to their greater thickness, which retains heat in the house better.
Shakes can be manufactured by hand or by power tools, while shingles are mostly manufactured by power tools. Shakes usually follow the grain of the wood (since they are split), which shingles can exhibit some cross-grain cuts.
Shakes are installed with the rough side facing up and a breathable underlayment to prevent penetration by the elements; shingles are installed with any side facing up and three overlapping layers without the interleaved underlayment.
For the same thickness of a wooden piece, a shake is usually more durable than a shingle. “The most durable type of wood roofing material is the “heavy hand split cedar shake”, often referred to as havy ¾” natural cedar shake.” (source: Cedur synthetic roofing products)
So there you have it!
Now you know what is laid on your roof and you’re aware of the difference between a shake and a shingle.
Thank you for reading this article and we sincerely hope it was useful and informative.
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