Material
What Is Wood Shake Roofing? Properties, Performance, and Uses
Also called: wood shake shingles, cedar shakes, hand-split shakes, split wood shakes
Wood shakes is a type of roofing material made from split logs, typically cedar, cut into irregular, thick, and textured pieces that are installed in overlapping rows to form a weather-resistant roof covering.
In plain English
Wood shakes are a roofing material made from split logs, typically cedar, resulting in thick, irregularly textured pieces used as individual overlapping units on pitched roofs to form a weather-resistant covering. They are distinct from wood shingles, which are sawn and more uniform in appearance.
How wood shakes works
Wood shakes are a type of roofing material made from split logs, typically cedar, resulting in irregular, textured pieces that are thicker and more rugged than wood shingles. Each shake is hand-split or mechanically split on one or both faces, producing a distinctive, uneven surface that enhances water drainage and promotes rapid snow shedding on pitched roofs. The geometry of wood shakes, with their variable thickness and tapered profile, allows for layered installation along the roof deck, starting from the eaves and progressing toward the ridge, ensuring effective overlap and weatherproofing.
Structurally, wood shakes are installed over spaced or solid sheathing, often with interlaid felt to improve water resistance. Their natural split edges create channels that facilitate runoff, reducing the risk of water infiltration at joints. Wood shakes perform well on moderate to steep roof slopes, where gravity aids in shedding precipitation and minimizing moisture retention. They are commonly used in residential and historic applications, especially in regions where traditional aesthetics and natural materials are valued, and where local climate conditions favor their durability and wind resistance. Proper installation and maintenance are essential to maximize the lifespan and structural efficiency of wood shake roofing systems.
Why it matters for your roof
Wood shakes are also known for their insulation properties, and can help regulate indoor temperatures. It also affects how homeowners, contractors, and specifiers evaluate roof durability, cost, risk, and long-term value.
Benefits
NATURAL WEATHER RESISTANCE
Wood shakes provide inherent resistance to wind and moderate hail due to their thickness and irregular surface texture.
THERMAL INSULATION VALUE
Wood shakes offer superior natural insulation, helping to moderate attic temperatures and improve overall building energy efficiency.
AESTHETIC LONGEVITY
Wood shakes develop a distinctive weathered appearance over time, maintaining visual appeal and architectural character for decades.
IMPACT ABSORPTION
The density and layered installation of wood shakes help absorb impact energy, reducing the risk of punctures from falling debris.
Limitations
MOISTURE ABSORPTION
Wood shakes are highly susceptible to moisture uptake, leading to swelling, warping, and accelerated biological decay in humid climates.
FIRE VULNERABILITY
Wood shakes present an elevated fire risk due to their combustible nature, especially in wildfire-prone or urban-wildland interface zones.
DIMENSIONAL INSTABILITY
Natural wood shakes can split, curl, or cup over time, causing irregular surfaces and potential gaps that compromise weather resistance.
INSECT INFESTATION
Wood shakes are prone to termite and carpenter ant attack, which can undermine structural integrity and shorten service life.
Common problems
PREMATURE WOOD ROT
Wood shakes are highly susceptible to premature rot when exposed to persistent moisture or inadequate ventilation.
UV SURFACE DEGRADATION
Prolonged ultraviolet exposure causes wood shakes to dry, crack, and lose structural integrity, accelerating material breakdown.
INSECT INFESTATION DAMAGE
Wood shakes are vulnerable to termite and carpenter ant infestation, leading to hidden structural weakening and surface erosion.
MATERIAL COMPATIBILITY FAILURE
Contact with incompatible metal fasteners or flashings can trigger staining, corrosion, or accelerated shake deterioration.
Where you'll see it
HISTORIC RESTORATION
Wood shakes are specified for restoring historic homes where maintaining original material authenticity and traditional appearance is required.
RUSTIC DESIGN AESTHETICS
Architects select wood shakes to achieve a natural, textured look on cabins, lodges, or craftsman-style residences in temperate climates.
MODERATE CLIMATE PERFORMANCE
Wood shakes are used in regions with moderate rainfall and humidity, where their breathability and natural insulation properties are advantageous.
WEIGHT-SENSITIVE STRUCTURES
Builders choose wood shakes for lightweight roofing needs on structures unable to support heavier materials like clay or concrete tiles.
Don't confuse it with
Not to be confused with similar roofing terms that sound related but perform a different role in the roof assembly.
- wood shakes vs wood shingles
- wood shakes vs asphalt shingles
- wood shakes vs slate roofing
- wood shakes vs metal roofing
Regional & climate notes
Most relevant in: Rain-heavy climates, Humid climates, Wildfire-prone climates, Freeze-thaw climates.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are wood shakes in roofing?
Wood shakes are roofing materials made from split logs, typically cedar, resulting in a textured, rustic appearance. They offer natural insulation and durability but require regular maintenance to prevent moisture damage and extend lifespan.
How do wood shakes perform in terms of insulation and weather resistance compared to other roofing materials?
Wood shakes offer moderate insulation and natural ventilation but are less weather-resistant than asphalt shingles or metal roofing. They require regular maintenance to prevent moisture damage, rot, and insect infestation, especially in wet climates.
Why is the quality of wood shakes important for the longevity of a roof?
The quality of wood shakes directly affects roof longevity because higher-grade shakes resist moisture, decay, and insect damage better, reducing the risk of leaks, premature deterioration, and costly repairs over time.
How do wood shakes affect the energy efficiency and insulation of a roof?
Wood shakes provide moderate insulation and energy efficiency due to their natural thickness and air pockets, helping reduce heat transfer. However, they generally offer less insulation compared to modern roofing materials like insulated metal or composite shingles.
How do you measure the thickness and quality of wood shakes for roofing?
Wood shakes are measured by their butt thickness, typically ranging from ½ to 1 inch. Quality is determined by wood species, grain orientation, uniformity, and absence of defects like knots or splits.
What factors affect the lifespan of wood shakes on a roof?
The lifespan of wood shakes depends on wood quality, installation, roof pitch, climate, maintenance, and exposure to moisture, sunlight, and debris. Proper ventilation and regular cleaning significantly extend their durability and performance.
Related terms
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