4510 S Federal Blvd Englewood, Colorado 80110

3525 N Cascade Ave #204 Colorado Springs, CO 80907

(303) 761-6400(24/7)

(719) 434-3020(24/7)

Cedar Shakes vs Cedar Shingles

cedar shakes vs shingles


Cedar shakes and shingles are quite popular in the western U.S.  The look of cedar on a roof gives an old, rustic appeal not seen in other roofing materials like asphalt and tile.

In Colorado, these cedar shakes and shingles can take a beating and may require more maintenance and upkeep compared to their asphalt counterparts.

Two types of roofing materials that share a similar name, cedar shingles and cedar shakes are really quite different from one another.


CEDAR SHINGLES


Simply put, cedar shingles are milled more precisely than shake and create a more uniform appearance on the roof. Cedar shingles are sawn on both sides and are much more uniform in appearance.  They have a tailored appearance and are cut tapered.


Cedar shingles are more precise and can lay flat.  They also do not require a layer of felt paper.  Since they are not as thick as cedar shakes, the cedar shingles can be layered three shingles thick.  This thickness provides an excellent weatherproof barrier to the roof. Cedar shingles are more precise and can lay flat.  They also do not require a layer of felt paper.  Since they are not as thick as cedar shakes, the cedar shingles can be layered three shingles thick.  This thickness provides an excellent weatherproof barrier to the roof.


CEDAR SHAKES


Cedar shakes are a bit thicker and more irregular giving the roof a more rustic appearance. Cedar shakes are sawn on one side with the split side outward facing.  This is what gives the cedar shakes the rustic appearance.   They are typically sawed at an angle so one end is thicker than the other.


Since cedar shakes are more irregular in shape, they don’t lay flat when installed.  This creates gaps between the shakes which can be caught up in wind gusts or penetrated by rain.  Due to this, a layer of felt paper is required during the installation.  The paper helps block the wind and precipitation.   This layer of felt paper combined with a proper cedar shake installation provides a secondary barrier of protection for the roof.


If you are interested or have any other questions about cedar roofing materials, or other types of shingles, don’t hesitate to contact us.


BENEFITS OF CEDAR SHAKES/SHINGLES


Although we did just lay out a few disadvantages, cedar shakes and shingles do have advantages beyond the rustic appeal other roofing options don’t offer.


Cedar roofing provides superior performance for those in areas that experience harsh weather conditions, such as extreme wind and hail. Homeowners in the Denver, CO area would benefit from installing cedar roofing for their protection against weather elements alone.

cedar shingles on a roof


GREEN EFFECT

Those of you looking for a green roofing option, consider cedar shakes or shingles as your material. Cedar is a wood material that’s biodegradable and a renewable source. There are very few materials that are considered a fully renewable building material such as wood. Additionally, cedar provides better insulation for your home which in turn lowers your energy costs. So if you’re planning on going green, cedar roofing is an environmentally friendly choice for you.


REPLACEMENT

Wait, there’s even more good news about cedar roofing in Denver! It’s possible to replace and repair parts of your cedar roof without concern over the new shakes or shingles looking significantly different in composition from your original cedar shakes or shingles. When cedar ages, it’s expected that some pieces will require replacement. With cedar roofing, individual shake or shingle repairs are possible. In fact, if you are proactive about your cedar roof, you can extend the life of your cedar roof.


Cedar shakes or shingles will provide your home with an aesthetically appealing look as well as provide long-term durability, sustainability and superior performance against harsh weather elements.

Receive a half-price solar-powered attic fan for $500, with the purchase of a full roof. Normally $999.

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Why Homeowners and Businesses Choose Us

Colo Radans
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Excel Roofing is the only roofing company I would trust and recommend to others. Kevin M. is extremely helpful and professional at all time with his experience and knowledge.
Ralitsa Carter
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I highly recommend consulting with a true roof insurance expert like Excel Roofing, as there are a lot of details one can easily miss if not in the field on a regular basis.
Mary Kimball
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Omar came out and repaired some of our inside ceiling where the nails lifted the drywall. He is an amazing worker, a master at his job. Ask for Omar as he is a real asset to Excel Roofing!
Cindy L
Local Guide
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This company has gone way beyond my expectations. Thank you Jay and especially thank you JR for doing such a great job, being dependable, on time and affordable.
Rick Sturdivant
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Troy Lindsay and his team did a great job installing a new roof. They even worked with me when I wanted a solar-powered attic fan installed and helped me size and choose one.
brian niles
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These guys are top notch! You will not find better service anywhere!! Thank you Excel!!
Dustin Sieve
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I would absolutely recommend Excel roofing for any roofing, gutters or painting. I plan on using them again for any future claims.
Eric Zietlow
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Eric the project manager answered all calls and e mails promptly, addressed any concerns, and followed up on small issues. Good looking roof, no headaches or stress on my end.
Nicki Shields
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The building inspector said this was one of the best roof jobs she has seen, she was very impressed. I highly recommend Excel Roofing for roofs, siding, and windows. I could not be more pleased! Look no further.
Sonny Romero
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Matt Foster was our Project Manager. Matt was very friendly, knowledgeable, and professional. He was involved from the estimate through the final inspection. Excel Roofing did an outstanding job.
ANDREW RODWIN
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Troy and his crew were outstanding. He explained the details every step of the way. They gave us a job date and completed on time.
Kevin Donahue
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Unlike the other companies who bid my roofing job, Excel (Brock) was not pushy and the deal did not have to be signed before he left the house. I am extremely pleased.
Ana Kauffman
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Love Chris, had my best interest in mind during the entire roof replacement process. He was able to rush the job for us given that we were nearing the closing date of the sale of the house.
Andy Dimmen
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Throughout the process I had one point of contact at Excel (Brock). Brock managed the entire process so that I didn’t have to do a thing. I will recommend Excel to everyone I know
Taylor Hood
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I would have given 5 stars. Giving 4 because of how hard Matt worked to get project finished and they were priced very reasonable compared to other roofing companies.
Beth Rogers
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Troy and his crew went above and beyond for us. Working to help us navigate insurance claim. Great job, on time, on budget, house looks great. Couldn't be happier! Highly recommend Mr Troy and his crew!
Bob Andersen
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wonderful company to work with.. from the initial call for someone to come look.. the project manager Bob was at the house within an hour.
Mindy Densmore
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They showed up on time, determined the problem, showed us a video of what to do to prevent it in the future and and took care of it immediately. I highly recommend Excel.
j snoy
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I definitely recommend and will use again. Chris the project manager was very quick to respond and quite reliable. Overall, a great roofing experience.

Denver Metro

4510 S Federal Blvd
Englewood, Colorado 80110

Phone: (303) 761-6400

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Colorado Springs

3525 N Cascade Ave #204 Colorado Springs, CO 80907

Phone: (719) 434-3020

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Sheridan, Wyoming

1574 N Main Street
Sheridan, Wyoming 82801

Phone: (307) 763-4050

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Casper, Wyoming

373 Lakeview Drive
Casper, Wyoming 82604

Phone: (307) 237-770

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