Cedar roofing has long been a favorite among homeowners who want their roof to do more than just protect; it should also impress. From historic homes and mountain retreats to elegant cottages and upscale remodels, cedar roofs bring unmatched beauty and performance to the table. But just like any roofing material, there are important considerations for cedar roofing that you should weigh before making a decision.
In this blog, we’ll break down the pros and cons of cedar roofing, highlight the specific types of cedar roofs we install, and help you determine if this timeless option is the right fit for your home.
What Is Cedar Roofing?
Cedar roofing includes products made from cedar wood. This is typically either cedar shakes or cedar shingles. Natural cedar is prized for its rustic charm, durability, and natural insulation qualities. Homeowners also have the option of choosing synthetic cedar roofing, which mimics the appearance of wood without the drawbacks of maintenance and weather sensitivity.
At our company, we specialize in three types of cedar roofing systems:
- Cedar Shake Roofing: Hand-split for a bold, rustic look.
- Cedar Shingle Roofing: Machine-cut for a sleek, uniform finish.
- Synthetic Cedar Roofing: Crafted from composite materials to mimic cedar with increased durability and lower maintenance.
Each offers distinct benefits and visual appeal, but choosing the right one starts with understanding the full picture.
The Advantages of Cedar Roofing
There are many advantages of cedar roofing, from its visual impact to its performance over time. Below are the top benefits homeowners enjoy when choosing cedar for their roof.
1. Unmatched Curb Appeal
There aren’t many roofing materials that can match the natural beauty of cedar. The warm tones, dimensional texture, and architectural character of cedar shakes and shingles elevate the entire look of your home. Whether you choose the rugged look of hand-split shakes or the crisp lines of cedar shingles, your roof is sure to turn heads.
In fact, cedar is so admired that many other roofing materials, such as asphalt or metal, try to mimic its look. With cedar, you’re getting the real deal.
2. Excellent Thermal Performance
Cedar wood offers natural insulation properties that help regulate indoor temperatures throughout the year. This can help reduce your heating and cooling bills, which is especially helpful in older homes that may lack modern insulation. When it comes to energy efficiency, this is one of the most overlooked advantages of cedar roofing.
3. Storm and Weather Resistance
When installed and maintained properly, cedar shakes and shingles hold up well against wind, hail, and heavy rain. Their thickness and flexibility make them a surprisingly durable material, particularly for homes in areas that experience seasonal storms.
Synthetic cedar roofing also offers advanced impact resistance and fire ratings, often carrying a Class 4 impact rating and the option of Class A fire resistance for superior protection.
4. Long Lifespan with Proper Maintenance
Cedar roofing can last anywhere from 30 to 50 years, depending on the material grade, installation quality, and how well it’s maintained. While this requires a commitment to upkeep, the cedar roofing durability you get in return can be well worth it.
Synthetic cedar roofing, in particular, provides long-term performance, often up to 50 years or more, with little to no maintenance.
The Cons of Cedar Roofing
While there are many benefits, the pros and cons of cedar roofing aren’t complete without addressing the potential downsides. Understanding these considerations for cedar roofing helps you make an informed decision.
1. Higher Upfront Cost
One of the most significant drawbacks of cedar roofing is the price. Cedar shake and shingle roofs are premium products, often costing significantly more than standard asphalt shingles. On average, homeowners can expect to pay between $25 to $30 per square foot for cedar shakes, depending on the grade and roof complexity.
Synthetic cedar roofing may come at a similar price point, but it offers greater longevity and fewer upkeep costs.
2. Maintenance Requirements
To reach its full potential, natural cedar roofing requires routine maintenance. This includes:
- Removing debris and moss
- Trimming overhanging trees
- Annual inspections for damage or moisture
- Gentle cleaning (avoid power washing)
- Replacing cracked, cupped, or worn shingles as needed
Skipping maintenance can lead to issues like premature aging, rot, or leaks, so this is one of the biggest considerations for cedar roofing.
3. Lack of Manufacturer Warranty (Natural Cedar Only)
Because cedar is a natural product, manufacturers may not offer a material warranty. This means you’re relying solely on the roofing contractor’s workmanship guarantee. For this reason, hiring an experienced, reputable installer is absolutely essential.
In contrast, synthetic cedar roofing systems usually come with extended material warranties, providing more peace of mind.
4. Product Availability
Natural cedar shakes are often made to order, and lead times can stretch from 3 to 8 weeks, depending on the manufacturer and demand. This could delay your project, particularly during peak roofing seasons.
Choosing the Right Cedar Roof for Your Home
We offer the following options to meet different homeowner needs and budgets:
- Cedar Shake Roofing: Ideal for homeowners who love a rustic, natural appearance and don’t mind investing time in maintenance to preserve the look.
- Cedar Shingle Roofing: Best for those seeking a more polished, uniform style with the same natural benefits of cedar.
- Synthetic Cedar Roofing: Perfect for homeowners who want the look of cedar without the upkeep. This option offers superior durability, fire resistance, and long-term value.
Each type brings unique benefits, but the right choice is going to depend on your specific budget, style preferences, and willingness to maintain your roof over time.
Weighing the Pros and Cons of Cedar Roofing
Cedar roofing is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful and durable options on the market. However, that doesn’t mean it’s for everyone. The pros and cons of cedar roofing include stunning curb appeal, strong insulation, and excellent weather resistance, balanced by higher costs and regular maintenance needs.
Whether you’re leaning toward natural cedar or a synthetic alternative, the key is to work with a contractor who specializes in cedar materials and can guide you to the best decision.
Schedule Your Free Cedar Roof Inspection
Still weighing the advantages of cedar roofing for your home? Our team is here to help. We’ve installed cedar shake, cedar shingle, and synthetic cedar roofing systems for years and we’re happy to answer any questions you have.
Schedule your free inspection today and discover whether cedar roofing is the right match for your home’s style, budget, and long-term goals.
