Cedar Shakes and Shingles
All About Cedar Shakes & Shingle Roofs
To properly understand your roof, it’s important to know the material protecting your home. Today’s roofing market includes asphalt, fiberglass laminate, metal, clay tile, concrete, recycled rubber, and plastic roofing systems. However, cedar is the only natural wood roofing material approved for residential roofing, making it one of the most attractive and timeless roofing options available.
Cedar shake and shingle roofs offer a unique combination of beauty, durability, and natural character that manufactured products simply cannot replicate. The design of your roof, the quality of the cedar, and the installation process all play major roles in determining how long your roof will last.
When choosing cedar roofing materials, thicker shakes generally provide a longer lifespan. Hand-split shakes also tend to outperform taper-sawn products in durability. Pressure-treated cedar shakes can further increase roof life by helping resist moisture, decay, and weathering.
Benefits of Cedar Shake & Shingle Roofs
- Beautiful Natural Appearance – Cedar roofs are widely considered one of the most elegant and premium roofing systems available. Their natural texture and character create unmatched curb appeal.
- Long Lifespan with Proper Maintenance – With regular maintenance, cleaning, repairs, and treatment, cedar roofs can last 20–25 years or longer.
- Excellent Durability – Properly installed cedar roofs are highly resistant to:
- Wind damage
- Freezing rain
- Harsh weather conditions
- Moisture-related issues
- Easy to Repair – Individual cedar shakes and shingles can often be replaced without replacing the entire roof, making repairs more affordable and practical.
- Natural Aging Process – Over time, cedar naturally weathers into a soft grey-brown tone that many homeowners love. Replacement shakes may initially stand out but will naturally blend in over time.
- Fire-Rated Options Available – Cedar roofing systems can also be installed as a Class A fire-rated system for added protection.
- Performs Well in Different Climates – Cedar roofing can be installed in a wide range of temperatures and climate conditions, making it ideal for West Coast weather.
Why Maintaining Your Cedar Roof Matters
Think Smart. Repair & Maintain Instead of Replace.
Replacing a cedar roof can be extremely expensive, and many roofs are replaced long before necessary. At South-West Roof Restoration, we believe in helping homeowners maximize the life of their existing roof whenever possible.
A proactive repair and maintenance program can:
- Extend roof life significantly
- Prevent small issues from becoming major problems
- Stop rot and damage from spreading
- Preserve your home’s value and curb appeal
- Save thousands in premature replacement costs
The Environmental Benefits of Cedar Roof Restoration
Restoring and maintaining your cedar roof is also one of the most environmentally responsible choices you can make.
Benefits of Roof Restoration:
- Reduces waste sent to landfills
- Extends the life of existing roofing materials
- Saves thousands of cedar trees
- Reduces dependency on asphalt and fiberglass roofing products
- Lowers the environmental impact of manufacturing and disposal
Keeping your existing cedar roof healthy for as long as possible simply makes sense — both financially and environmentally.
Why We Use Timber Pro UV Roof Treatment
At South-West Roof Restoration, we use Timber Pro UV Roof Treatment because it is specifically designed to protect and preserve cedar roofing systems.
Timber Pro UV Benefits:
- Replenishes natural oils in cedar shakes
- Protects against UV damage from the sun
- Helps slow down aging and weathering
- Allows the wood to breathe naturally
- Helps maintain flexibility and durability
- Environmentally friendly and safe to use
Unlike many solvent-, acrylic-, or silicone-based coatings that can trap moisture and accelerate decay, Timber Pro UV is a breathable treatment that supports the natural performance of cedar wood.
Timber Pro UV is recognized by:
- The LEED Green Building Program
- The GVRD BuildSmart Program
Save Money & Extend the Life of Your Roof
A properly maintained cedar roof can provide many additional years of protection while helping homeowners avoid unnecessary replacement costs. Roof restoration and maintenance remain one of the best long-term investments you can make for your property.
If you would like to learn more about cedar shake and shingle roofs, contact South-West Roof Restoration today for a professional roof assessment and expert recommendations.
South-West Roof, The #1Vancouver Roofing CompanySpecializing in Cedar Shakes!
We’ve Been Serving The Lower Mainland Since 1985. Call Us Today at 604-760-7935