How To Make Cedar Shakes (5 Pro Tips For Perfect Wood Shingles)

Imagine, for a moment, the crisp mountain air filling your lungs as you stand before a home radiating rustic elegance. The secret? Cedar shakes, meticulously crafted and perfectly installed. They’re more than just roofing; they’re a statement, an investment in timeless beauty. But achieving that level of luxury requires knowledge, skill, and, yes, a solid understanding of the costs involved. I’ve spent years immersed in the world of wood, from felling timber to crafting fine furniture, and I’m here to guide you through the process of making cedar shakes, ensuring you achieve that perfect, luxurious finish without breaking the bank.

How to Make Cedar Shakes (5 Pro Tips for Perfect Wood Shingles)

Creating beautiful, durable cedar shakes isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s about understanding the wood, the tools, and the process. It’s about bringing a piece of the forest to your home in a way that honors the material and elevates your living space. But let’s be honest, the journey can be daunting. Costs can quickly spiral out of control if you’re not careful. That’s why I’m going to break down everything you need to know, from selecting the right cedar to mastering the splitting technique and, crucially, managing your budget.

1. Selecting the Right Cedar: The Foundation of Your Project

The quality of your cedar is paramount. It’s the difference between shakes that last a lifetime and those that warp and crack within a few years. Think of it like choosing the finest ingredients for a gourmet meal – the better the raw material, the better the final product.

Wood Species: Western Red Cedar (Thuja plicata) is the gold standard. It’s naturally resistant to decay, insects, and moisture, making it ideal for roofing and siding. However, depending on your location, other cedar species like Alaskan Yellow Cedar (Callitropsis nootkatensis) might be viable alternatives, offering similar properties at potentially lower costs.
Grade: Look for “Clear Heart” cedar. This grade is free of knots and imperfections, ensuring consistent splitting and a clean, uniform appearance. Lower grades, like “Select Knotty,” can be used for other projects, but for shakes, Clear Heart is the way to go.
Source: Where you source your cedar significantly impacts the cost. Buying directly from a sawmill can often save you money compared to purchasing from a lumberyard. However, sawmills may have minimum order requirements, so factor that into your decision.

Cost Considerations:

Timber Prices: Cedar prices fluctuate based on market demand, availability, and transportation costs. According to recent data from Forest2Market, Western Red Cedar prices have seen a 15-20% increase in the last year due to increased demand in the construction sector. As of Q4 2023, expect to pay anywhere from $4.50 to $7.00 per board foot for Clear Heart Western Red Cedar, depending on your location.
Transportation: Don’t underestimate the cost of transporting your cedar. If you’re buying from a distant sawmill, factor in trucking fees or the cost of renting a trailer and hauling it yourself. I once drove over 300 miles to pick up a load of cedar for a siding project. The cedar was significantly cheaper at the source, but the fuel and time added a considerable expense to the overall cost.
Waste: Account for waste when calculating your cedar needs. Splitting shakes inevitably generates some unusable pieces. I recommend adding 10-15% to your total material estimate to cover waste.

Pro Tip: Before committing to a large order, purchase a small sample of cedar from your chosen supplier. This allows you to assess the quality and workability of the wood before investing heavily.

2. Essential Tools: Investing in Quality and Efficiency

While you can technically split shakes with a hatchet and a mallet, I highly recommend investing in the right tools to increase efficiency, improve the quality of your shakes, and, ultimately, save you time and money.

Froes: A froe is a specialized tool designed for splitting wood along the grain. It consists of a heavy blade with an eye for a handle. Froes come in various sizes, but a 24-inch froe is a good all-around choice for shake making.
Mallet: A heavy wooden mallet is used to drive the froe into the wood. Choose a mallet made from a durable hardwood like hickory or ash. Avoid using a metal hammer, as it can damage the froe.
Drawknife: A drawknife is used to shave and shape the shakes after they’ve been split. This tool allows you to refine the edges and create a smooth, even surface.
Safety Gear: Never compromise on safety. Wear safety glasses, gloves, and sturdy boots when splitting wood.

Cost Breakdown:

Froe: A high-quality froe can cost anywhere from $80 to $200, depending on the brand and size.
Mallet: Expect to pay $30 to $60 for a good wooden mallet.
Drawknife: Drawknives range in price from $50 to $150.
Safety Gear: Safety glasses and gloves are relatively inexpensive, typically costing under $30.

Rental vs. Purchase:

For occasional shake-making projects, renting a froe might seem like a cost-effective option. However, consider the rental fees, transportation costs, and the potential for damage to the tool. In my experience, if you plan to make shakes regularly, investing in your own tools is the better long-term solution.

Pro Tip: Look for used tools at estate sales, flea markets, or online marketplaces. You can often find high-quality vintage tools at significantly lower prices than new ones. Just be sure to inspect them carefully for damage before you buy.

3. Mastering the Splitting Technique: Minimizing Waste and Maximizing Yield

Splitting cedar for shakes is an art form. It requires a keen eye for the grain, a steady hand, and a bit of practice. The goal is to split the wood cleanly along the grain, minimizing waste and maximizing the yield of usable shakes.

Grain Orientation: Always split the wood along the grain. Look for straight, consistent grain patterns. Avoid wood with twisted or irregular grain, as it will be difficult to split cleanly.
Starting the Split: Position the froe on the end of the log or bolt (a short section of log). Use the mallet to drive the froe into the wood, starting a split.
Expanding the Split: Once the split has started, you can use the froe to gradually expand it along the length of the wood. Insert the froe further into the split and use the mallet to drive it deeper.
Controlling the Split: To control the direction of the split, you can use wedges. Insert wedges into the split to keep it open and guide the split along the desired path.

Cost-Saving Strategies:

Practice Makes Perfect: The more you practice, the more efficient you’ll become at splitting shakes. This will reduce waste and increase your yield.
Optimize Log Length: Experiment with different log lengths to find the size that yields the most usable shakes with the least amount of waste.
Salvage Usable Pieces: Even if a split doesn’t go perfectly, don’t discard the entire piece. Look for sections that can be salvaged and used for smaller shakes or other projects.

Pro Tip: Watch videos and read articles on shake-splitting techniques. There are many excellent resources available online that can help you improve your skills. I remember spending hours watching old-timers demonstrate their techniques – it was invaluable.

4. Drying and Finishing: Protecting Your Investment

Once you’ve split your shakes, they need to be properly dried and finished to ensure their longevity and protect them from the elements.

Air Drying: The best way to dry cedar shakes is to air dry them. Stack the shakes in a well-ventilated area, allowing air to circulate freely around them. This will gradually reduce the moisture content of the wood, preventing warping and cracking.
Drying Time: The drying time will vary depending on the climate and the thickness of the shakes. In general, allow at least 4-6 weeks for the shakes to dry thoroughly.
Finishing: While cedar is naturally resistant to decay, applying a finish can further protect it from the elements and enhance its appearance. Consider using a clear wood preservative or a stain specifically designed for cedar.

Cost-Effective Drying:

Utilize Natural Resources: Take advantage of natural sunlight and wind to speed up the drying process.
Proper Stacking: Stack the shakes properly to maximize air circulation. Use spacers between the shakes to ensure even drying.
Avoid Direct Sunlight: While sunlight is beneficial, avoid exposing the shakes to direct sunlight for extended periods, as this can cause them to dry too quickly and crack.

Finishing Options and Costs:

Clear Wood Preservative: A gallon of clear wood preservative typically costs between $30 and $50.
Cedar Stain: A gallon of cedar stain ranges from $40 to $70, depending on the brand and quality.
Application Costs: Factor in the cost of brushes, rollers, and other application tools.

Pro Tip: Before applying a finish to your shakes, test it on a small, inconspicuous area to ensure you like the color and appearance.

5. Installation and Maintenance: Ensuring Long-Term Performance

The final step in the shake-making process is installation. Proper installation is crucial for ensuring the long-term performance and durability of your shakes.

Roofing Underlayment: Install a layer of roofing underlayment before installing the shakes. This will provide an extra layer of protection against moisture.
Shake Placement: Overlap the shakes properly to ensure a watertight seal. The amount of overlap will depend on the climate and the pitch of your roof.
Nailing: Use galvanized or stainless steel nails to attach the shakes to the roof. Avoid using aluminum nails, as they can react with the cedar and cause corrosion.

Maintenance Costs:

Regular Inspections: Inspect your cedar shakes regularly for signs of damage or decay.
Cleaning: Clean the shakes periodically to remove dirt, moss, and algae.
Repairs: Replace any damaged or decayed shakes promptly to prevent further damage.

Installation Costs:

DIY vs. Professional: Installing cedar shakes yourself can save you money, but it requires experience and skill. If you’re not comfortable working on roofs, it’s best to hire a professional.
Labor Rates: Labor rates for roofing contractors vary depending on your location and the complexity of the project. Expect to pay anywhere from $5 to $10 per square foot for professional installation.
Permits: Check with your local building department to see if you need a permit to install cedar shakes.

Pro Tip: Consider hiring a professional roofer to inspect your roof and provide a detailed estimate for the installation. This will give you a clear understanding of the costs involved and help you avoid any surprises.

Case Study: Budgeting for a Cedar Shake Project

Let’s consider a hypothetical case study to illustrate how to budget for a cedar shake project.

Project: Replacing the roof on a 1,500 square foot home with cedar shakes.

Assumptions:

Using Clear Heart Western Red Cedar.
Purchasing cedar from a local sawmill.
Installing the shakes yourself.
Air drying the shakes.
Applying a clear wood preservative.

Cost Breakdown:

Cedar: 1,500 sq ft x $6 per board foot (average price) = $9,000
Transportation: $200 (fuel and trailer rental)
Tools: $300 (froe, mallet, drawknife, safety gear)
Roofing Underlayment: $150
Nails: $50
Wood Preservative: $50
Total Material Cost: $9,750

Labor Cost:

DIY: $0 (assuming your time is free)
Professional Installation: $7,500 to $15,000 (depending on labor rates)

Total Project Cost:

DIY: $9,750
Professional Installation: $17,250 to $24,750

Cost Optimization Strategies:

Source Cedar Wisely: Shop around for the best cedar prices. Consider purchasing from a sawmill or a smaller lumberyard.
DIY Installation: If you’re comfortable working on roofs, installing the shakes yourself can save you a significant amount of money.
Minimize Waste: Practice your splitting technique and optimize log lengths to reduce waste.
Air Dry Efficiently: Take advantage of natural resources and proper stacking techniques to speed up the drying process.
Consider Alternative Cedar Species: Explore using Alaskan Yellow Cedar or other cedar species that may be more affordable.

Additional Cost Considerations:

Permits: Check with your local building department to see if you need a permit. Permit fees can range from $50 to $500 or more.
Unexpected Repairs: Set aside a contingency fund for unexpected repairs or problems that may arise during the project.
Tool Rental: If you don’t want to purchase tools, you can rent them from a local tool rental company. However, renting can be more expensive in the long run if you plan to use the tools frequently.

The Global Perspective: Cedar Shake Costs Around the World

Cedar shake costs can vary significantly depending on your location. Factors such as timber availability, labor rates, and transportation costs all play a role.

North America: North America is the primary source of Western Red Cedar. As a result, cedar shakes are generally more affordable in North America than in other parts of the world.
Europe: Cedar shakes are becoming increasingly popular in Europe, but they are generally more expensive than in North America due to transportation costs and import duties.
Asia: Cedar shakes are also gaining popularity in Asia, particularly in Japan and South Korea. However, they are typically the most expensive in Asia due to limited availability and high transportation costs.

Data Points:

According to a report by the Global Forest Products Market, the average price of Western Red Cedar lumber in Europe is 20-30% higher than in North America.
A survey of roofing contractors in Japan found that cedar shake installation costs are 40-50% higher than in North America.

Challenges for Small-Scale Loggers and Firewood Suppliers:

Small-scale loggers and firewood suppliers often face unique challenges in the cedar shake market. These challenges include:

Limited Access to Timber: Small-scale loggers may have limited access to timber resources, making it difficult to compete with larger logging companies.
High Transportation Costs: Transportation costs can be a significant burden for small-scale loggers, particularly if they are located in remote areas.
Fluctuating Market Prices: Cedar prices can fluctuate significantly, making it difficult for small-scale loggers to plan their operations and manage their finances.

Strategies for Overcoming Challenges:

Cooperative Marketing: Small-scale loggers can benefit from cooperative marketing arrangements, which allow them to pool their resources and market their products more effectively.
Value-Added Processing: Small-scale loggers can increase their profits by processing their timber into value-added products such as cedar shakes, siding, or furniture.
Direct Sales: Selling directly to consumers can eliminate the middleman and allow small-scale loggers to capture a larger share of the profits.

Calculations and Formulas for Estimating Costs

To accurately estimate the costs of your cedar shake project, it’s helpful to understand some basic calculations and formulas.

Board Foot Calculation: A board foot is a unit of measurement for lumber. It is defined as a piece of wood that is 1 inch thick, 12 inches wide, and 12 inches long. To calculate the number of board feet in a piece of lumber, use the following formula:

Board Feet = (Thickness in inches x Width in inches x Length in inches) / 144 * Cord Calculation: A cord is a unit of measurement for firewood. It is defined as a stack of wood that is 4 feet high, 4 feet wide, and 8 feet long. To calculate the number of cords in a stack of wood, use the following formula:

Cords = (Height in feet x Width in feet x Length in feet) / 128 * Shake Coverage Calculation: To estimate the number of shakes you need for your project, use the following formula:

Number of Shakes = (Roof Area in Square Feet) / (Shake Coverage Area in Square Feet)

Estimated Drying Time (days) = K * (Initial Moisture Content - Target Moisture Content)

Where K is a constant that depends on the climate and drying conditions.

Actionable Takeaways and Next Steps

Making cedar shakes is a rewarding but challenging project. By following these tips and carefully managing your budget, you can achieve a beautiful and durable result that will add value to your home for years to come.

Start Planning Early: Begin planning your project well in advance to allow time for sourcing materials, drying the shakes, and scheduling installation.
Get Multiple Quotes: Obtain quotes from multiple lumber suppliers and roofing contractors to ensure you’re getting the best prices.
Consider DIY Options: If you’re comfortable with woodworking and roofing, consider doing some of the work yourself to save money.
Prioritize Quality: Invest in high-quality cedar and tools to ensure the longevity and performance of your project.
Seek Expert Advice: Don’t hesitate to seek advice from experienced woodworkers, roofing contractors, or lumber suppliers.

Remember, creating luxurious cedar shakes is within reach with proper planning, execution, and a keen eye on costs. Embrace the journey, learn from the process, and enjoy the enduring beauty of your handcrafted cedar shakes.

How to Make Cedar Shakes (5 Pro Tips for Perfect Wood Shingles)