Wood Shake vs Shingle Explained (Pro Guide to Roofing Cuts)

Wood Shake vs. Shingle Explained: A Pro Guide to Roofing Cuts

Innovation in roofing materials has always fascinated me. From the earliest days of hand-split logs providing basic shelter to the engineered composites we see today, the evolution of roofing is a testament to our ingenuity. But even with modern advancements, the allure of natural wood roofing remains strong. There’s something undeniably beautiful and timeless about a roof crafted from wood shakes or shingles.

Understanding the Basics: Shakes vs. Shingles

Before diving into the specifics of cuts and installation, it’s important to establish a clear understanding of what distinguishes wood shakes from wood shingles. While both are derived from wood and serve the same fundamental purpose – protecting your home from the elements – their manufacturing processes and resulting aesthetics differ significantly.

  • Wood Shingles: These are sawn on both sides, resulting in a consistent taper and a smoother, more uniform appearance. This uniformity makes them easier to install and gives the roof a cleaner, more refined look. I often recommend shingles for homes where a classic, understated appearance is desired.

  • Wood Shakes: These are typically hand-split or sawn on one side and split on the other, creating a more rustic, textured appearance. The split face exposes the natural grain of the wood, giving each shake a unique character. Shakes are generally thicker than shingles and offer a more rugged, natural look.

Wood Species: Choosing the Right Material

The type of wood used for shakes and shingles significantly impacts their durability, lifespan, and overall performance. Several species are commonly used, each with its own set of advantages and disadvantages.

  • Western Red Cedar (Thuja plicata): This is arguably the most popular choice for wood roofing, and for good reason. Western Red Cedar is naturally resistant to decay, insects, and moisture, making it an incredibly durable option. Its lightweight nature also makes it easier to work with. I’ve personally seen Western Red Cedar roofs last for 50 years or more with proper maintenance.

  • Alaskan Yellow Cedar (Callitropsis nootkatensis): Similar to Western Red Cedar, Alaskan Yellow Cedar is highly durable and resistant to decay. It’s often slightly more expensive but offers a tighter grain and a slightly lighter color.

  • Eastern White Cedar (Thuja occidentalis): While not as durable as Western Red Cedar, Eastern White Cedar is still a good option, especially in regions where it’s readily available. It’s lighter in color and less expensive than Western Red Cedar.

  • Pine: While less common, pine can be used for shakes and shingles, particularly in areas where cedar is scarce or cost-prohibitive. However, pine is more susceptible to decay and insect damage and requires regular treatment with preservatives.

Takeaway: Western Red Cedar and Alaskan Yellow Cedar are the top choices for wood roofing due to their exceptional durability and natural resistance to decay.

Understanding Wood Shake Cuts

The cut of a wood shake significantly influences its appearance and performance. Different cutting methods result in varying thicknesses, textures, and overall aesthetics.

  • Hand-Split and Resawn: This is the most traditional type of wood shake. These shakes are hand-split from a bolt of wood, exposing the natural grain. One side is then sawn to create a smoother back, ensuring a consistent thickness for installation. Hand-split and resawn shakes offer the most rustic and natural appearance.

  • Tapersawn: Tapersawn shakes are sawn on both sides, creating a consistent taper from the butt (bottom) to the tip (top). They offer a cleaner, more uniform look compared to hand-split shakes but still retain some of the natural character of the wood.

  • Straight-Split: These shakes are split on both sides, resulting in a very rough and irregular appearance. They are typically used for historical restoration projects or for those seeking a highly rustic aesthetic.

My Experience: I once worked on a historical restoration project where we used straight-split shakes to match the original roof. It was a challenging process, as each shake was unique and required careful fitting. However, the end result was a stunningly authentic roof that perfectly captured the character of the original building.

Understanding Wood Shingle Cuts

Unlike shakes, wood shingles are always sawn on both sides. However, there are still variations in the cutting process that affect their appearance and performance.

  • Tapersawn Shingles: These are the most common type of wood shingle. They are sawn to a consistent taper, resulting in a smooth, uniform surface. Tapersawn shingles are available in various lengths and thicknesses, allowing for different aesthetic choices.

  • Rebutted and Rejointed (R&R) Shingles: These shingles undergo an additional manufacturing step where the edges are precisely trimmed to ensure a perfectly straight and square edge. This results in a very clean and uniform appearance, making them ideal for modern architectural styles.

  • Perfections: Perfection shingles are 18 inches long and are typically used for sidewall applications, but they can also be used for roofing. They offer a clean, uniform look and are relatively easy to install.

Important Note: The term “rebutted and re-squared” is often used interchangeably with “rebutted and rejointed.” Both terms refer to shingles that have been precisely trimmed for a cleaner edge.

Installation Techniques: Ensuring a Lasting Roof

Proper installation is crucial for the longevity and performance of any wood roof, whether it’s made of shakes or shingles. I’ve seen countless roofs fail prematurely due to improper installation techniques.

  • Underlayment: Always start with a high-quality underlayment. This provides an extra layer of protection against moisture and helps to prevent leaks. I recommend using a synthetic underlayment specifically designed for roofing applications.

  • Spacing: Proper spacing between shakes or shingles is essential for allowing the wood to breathe and prevent moisture buildup. The recommended spacing varies depending on the climate and the type of wood used. Consult local building codes and manufacturer recommendations for specific guidelines.

  • Fasteners: Use corrosion-resistant fasteners, such as stainless steel or hot-dipped galvanized nails. Avoid using staples, as they can damage the wood and are more prone to failure.

  • Exposure: The exposure refers to the amount of the shake or shingle that is exposed to the weather. The exposure should be adjusted based on the roof pitch and the climate. Steeper roofs can handle a greater exposure.

  • Interlayment (for shakes): For shakes, it’s often recommended to use an interlayment between each course. This provides an extra layer of protection against wind-driven rain and snow.

My Tip: When installing shakes or shingles, always stagger the joints to prevent water from channeling down the roof.

Fire Retardant Treatment: Enhancing Safety

Wood is naturally combustible, so it’s essential to consider fire retardant treatment, especially in areas prone to wildfires.

  • Pressure Treatment: This involves forcing fire retardant chemicals into the wood under pressure. This is the most effective method of fire retardant treatment.

  • Surface Treatment: This involves applying a fire retardant coating to the surface of the wood. While less effective than pressure treatment, it’s a more affordable option.

Important: Always check local building codes for specific requirements regarding fire retardant treatment.

Maintenance and Longevity: Protecting Your Investment

A wood roof, whether shakes or shingles, requires regular maintenance to ensure its longevity.

  • Cleaning: Regularly clean the roof to remove debris, such as leaves and branches. This helps to prevent moisture buildup and the growth of moss and algae. I recommend using a soft brush and a mild detergent. Avoid using a pressure washer, as it can damage the wood.

  • Moss and Algae Removal: Moss and algae can thrive on wood roofs, especially in damp, shady areas. Treat the roof with a moss and algae killer specifically designed for wood roofing.

  • Inspection: Inspect the roof regularly for signs of damage, such as cracked, split, or missing shakes or shingles. Repair any damage promptly to prevent further deterioration.

  • Re-treatment: If the roof has been treated with a fire retardant, it may need to be re-treated periodically, depending on the type of treatment used.

My Advice: A well-maintained wood roof can last for decades, providing both beauty and protection for your home.

Cost Considerations: Balancing Quality and Budget

The cost of a wood shake or shingle roof can vary significantly depending on the type of wood used, the complexity of the roof, and the labor costs in your area.

  • Material Costs: Western Red Cedar is generally more expensive than pine. Shakes are typically more expensive than shingles due to the more labor-intensive manufacturing process.

  • Labor Costs: Installation costs can vary depending on the experience of the contractor and the complexity of the roof.

  • Maintenance Costs: Factor in the cost of regular maintenance, such as cleaning and moss removal.

Remember: While wood roofing can be more expensive than other options, such as asphalt shingles, its beauty, durability, and longevity can make it a worthwhile investment.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

I’ve seen my share of roofing mishaps over the years. Here are some common mistakes to avoid when working with wood shakes and shingles:

  • Improper Spacing: Failing to leave adequate space between shakes or shingles can lead to moisture buildup and premature decay.

  • Using the Wrong Fasteners: Using non-corrosion-resistant fasteners can lead to rust and failure, weakening the roof.

  • Over-nailing: Over-nailing can restrict the wood’s natural expansion and contraction, leading to cracks and splits.

  • Ignoring Building Codes: Always adhere to local building codes and manufacturer recommendations to ensure a safe and compliant roof.

  • Neglecting Maintenance: Failing to maintain the roof can shorten its lifespan and lead to costly repairs.

Environmental Considerations: Sustainable Roofing

Wood is a renewable resource, making it a more environmentally friendly roofing option than some alternatives.

  • Sustainable Forestry: Choose wood from sustainably managed forests. Look for certifications such as the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC).

  • Recycling: Wood shakes and shingles can be recycled or repurposed at the end of their lifespan.

  • Energy Efficiency: Wood roofs can provide excellent insulation, helping to reduce energy consumption.

My Perspective: Choosing wood roofing from sustainable sources is a responsible choice that can help to protect our forests for future generations.

Advanced Techniques: Decorative Cuts and Patterns

For those seeking a truly unique and personalized roof, consider incorporating decorative cuts and patterns.

  • Diamond Cuts: Shingles can be cut into diamond shapes to create a decorative pattern.

  • Fish Scale Cuts: Shingles can be cut into a rounded shape to create a fish scale pattern.

  • Custom Designs: Work with a skilled craftsman to create custom designs and patterns using shakes or shingles.

Caution: Intricate designs can increase installation time and cost.

Case Studies: Real-World Examples

Let’s look at a few real-world examples to illustrate the principles we’ve discussed.

  • Case Study 1: Coastal Home in Oregon: A homeowner in Oregon chose Western Red Cedar shakes for their coastal home. The shakes were pressure-treated with a fire retardant and installed with proper spacing and corrosion-resistant fasteners. The roof has held up beautifully for over 20 years, with minimal maintenance required.

  • Case Study 2: Historic Renovation in Massachusetts: A historic building in Massachusetts was renovated using Eastern White Cedar shingles. The shingles were carefully installed to match the original roof, preserving the building’s historic character.

  • Case Study 3: Mountain Cabin in Colorado: A mountain cabin in Colorado was built with hand-split and resawn shakes. The rustic appearance of the shakes perfectly complemented the natural surroundings.

The Future of Wood Roofing

Innovation in wood roofing continues. Researchers are exploring new treatments and techniques to enhance the durability, fire resistance, and sustainability of wood roofs. Engineered wood products, such as cross-laminated timber (CLT), are also being explored as potential roofing materials.

My Prediction: Wood roofing will continue to be a popular choice for homeowners seeking a beautiful, durable, and environmentally friendly roofing option.

Safety First: Protecting Yourself

Working with wood and roofing materials can be dangerous. Always prioritize safety.

  • Wear appropriate safety gear: This includes safety glasses, gloves, and a hard hat.

  • Use proper lifting techniques: Avoid back injuries by lifting heavy materials properly.

  • Work on a stable surface: Ensure that ladders and scaffolding are stable and secure.

  • Be aware of your surroundings: Watch out for overhead power lines and other hazards.

  • Follow manufacturer instructions: Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for installing roofing materials.

Conclusion: Choosing the Right Roof for Your Home

Choosing the right roof for your home is a significant decision. Wood shakes and shingles offer a beautiful, durable, and environmentally friendly option. By understanding the different types of cuts, installation techniques, and maintenance requirements, you can make an informed decision and ensure a lasting roof that will protect your home for years to come. I hope this guide has provided you with the knowledge and insights you need to embark on your wood roofing project with confidence. Remember to consult with experienced professionals and adhere to local building codes to ensure a successful outcome.

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