Minnesota Roofing Options: All About Cedar Shake
Are you looking to learn about cedar shake as a roofing material for your home or business? Our expert Minnesota roofing team has expert answers for all things cedar shake.
Because cedar shake is a great alternative to asphalt shingles, cedar shake roofers are in demand for cedar shake roof repair and installation. It’s a less common material, meaning not every roofing company knows how to work with it.
At Restoration Geeks, our team is highly trained to repair and install cedar shakes. Let us tell you a little more about this timeless roofing option!
What Is Cedar Shake Roofing?
Cedar shake is a classic roofing style with a history dating back to the colonial era. It is used on homes across the country for its unique look, and the appeal of hand-split cedar shakes extends beyond its appearance; Cedar shake is not only durable for snowy Minnesota winters, but also environmentally safe.
A cedar shake is a roofing shingle that has a rustic look. Each cedar shake has been crafted with care by being hand split. The unique characteristic of a cedar shake is that it appears to have been cut by an ax.
Cedar shake is not uniform in appearance but varies in size and thickness, creating a one-of-a-kind roof for your home or business.
Types of Cedar Shakes
There are two major types of cedar shakes: medium shakes and heavy shakes.
The Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety notes that they are made from Western Red Cedar or Alaskan Yellow Cedar. Each type of cedar shake covers 20 sq. ft. per bundle. When it comes to cedar shake roof replacement, cedar shake roof repair, and cedar shake roof installation, it is important to be aware of the different types of cedar shake. The difference in these types of cedar shakes is in the thickness and grade.
A medium shake is one-half inch to three-quarters inch, and a heavy shake is three-quarters to five-fourths of an inch. The cedar shakes have a grade of #1 80% edge grain, with the heavier variations differing from the two with a standard 100% flat grain grade.
Cedar Shake Benefits
Cedar shake is popular for multiple reasons, including:
Insulation Properties
Cedar is a top choice because of its natural insulation benefits. The cellular structure of the wood contains small pockets that can exchange moisture with the surrounding air more easily than other materials. This means that it works more effectively as a buffer and can result in higher insulation levels that support your home's efficiency levels.
Curb Appeal
Everyone wants their property to look beautiful, and cedar shake is an excellent choice for style and beautiful aesthetics. The wood is known for aging gracefully through the years, and its coloring can be preserved through regular maintenance, making it a timeless and rustic classic.
Durability
Durable roofing is critical to keeping your home safe, and cedar naturally repels carpenter ants, rodents, and termites. The material also can hold up well against windstorms, hail, and UV damage, making it an ideal option for almost any weather scenario.
Sustainability
Cedar is also a renewable resource; in many areas, it's grown specifically for the housing sector in the United States. It takes minimal energy to produce and is biodegradable, making it an environmentally friendly option.
Cedar Shake Drawbacks
While every component of your home will have benefits, there are also typically drawbacks, and one of the biggest issues with a cedar shake roof is the cost. The materials are not only more expensive to purchase but can be more costly to install. However, they offer a high return on investment because they are considered a premium material.
Cedar is also susceptible to rot, mold, and mildew, so something like sap dripping from an overhanging tree or too much moisture can cause these issues. If decay occurs, it will likely spread to the rest of the roof if not caught quickly enough, so yearly maintenance is required to reduce the risk of mildew and mold growth.
Book a Consultation With Minnesota Siding Experts
Ready to discuss the benefits of cedar shake for the exterior of your home or business? Speak to Restoration Geeks about cedar shake roof replacement, cedar shake roof repair, and cedar shake roof installation! Call us today at 952-500-9546 or contact us online.