What is the difference between a cedar shake and a cedar shingle? It’s a common question homeowners in Lexington, KY ask when considering natural wood roofing options. While cedar shakes and shingles may look similar from a distance, there are key differences that impact your home’s appearance, durability, and even your budget. Choosing between cedar shakes vs. cedar shingles comes down to understanding how each material performs in Lexington’s climate and how they align with your personal style and maintenance preferences.
If you’re unsure which option is right for your home, you’re not alone. Many Lexington homeowners struggle to understand the difference between cedar shakes and shingles, especially when weighing factors like cost, durability, and aesthetics. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the pros and cons of cedar shakes and shingles to help you make an informed decision that adds value and beauty to your home.
The Difference Between Cedar Shakes and Shingles
Before diving into the benefits and drawbacks, let’s start by breaking down what sets cedar shakes apart from cedar shingles.
What Are Cedar Shingles?
Cedar shingles are thin, machine-cut roofing pieces that offer a smooth, uniform finish. They’re known for their clean, polished appearance, making them a popular choice for Lexington homeowners who want a classic and refined look. Cedar shingles are sawn on both sides, ensuring consistency in size and shape for easy installation and tight seams.
Key Features of Cedar Shingles:
- Smooth, uniform surface for a traditional aesthetic
- Consistent size and thickness for precise installation
- Thinner profile, usually around ⅜ inch thick
- Overlapping installation for enhanced weather protection
What Are Cedar Shakes?
Cedar shakes, on the other hand, are thicker and hand-split to create a more rustic, textured appearance. Unlike the smooth finish of shingles, cedar shakes have a rougher, natural look that adds character and depth to a home. Because they’re hand-split, cedar shakes vary slightly in size and thickness, giving each roof a unique, rugged charm that fits well with many homes in Lexington, KY.
Key Features of Cedar Shakes:
- Hand-split texture for a rustic, natural appearance
- Thicker than shingles, typically ½ to ¾ inch
- Variations in size and shape for a more organic look
- Available in different grades, including premium and medium
Pros and Cons of Cedar Shakes and Shingles
Understanding the difference between cedar shakes and shingles is just the beginning. Next, let’s explore the pros and cons of cedar shakes and shingles to help you decide which is the right fit for your Lexington home.
Pros of Cedar Shingles
- Classic Appearance: Ideal for homeowners who want a clean, uniform look.
- Lightweight: Easier to install and places less strain on your home’s structure.
- Weather Resistance: The uniform design allows for tighter seams, offering solid protection against Lexington’s variable weather.
- Cost-Effective: Generally more affordable than shakes, making them a great option for budget-conscious homeowners.
Cons of Cedar Shingles
- Less Texture: While polished and refined, shingles lack the rugged charm some homeowners prefer.
- Durability: The thinner profile can make them less resistant to extreme weather compared to thicker shakes.
Pros of Cedar Shakes
- Rustic Aesthetic: The hand-split texture gives homes a warm, natural look that stands out.
- Increased Durability: Thicker material makes shakes more resistant to Lexington’s heavy rains, hail, and high winds.
- Better Insulation: The added thickness can improve energy efficiency by helping to regulate your home’s temperature.
Cons of Cedar Shakes
- Higher Upfront Cost: The craftsmanship and extra material make shakes more expensive.
- Complex Installation: Irregular shapes require skilled installation to prevent gaps and ensure weather resistance.
- More Maintenance: Cedar shakes may need more frequent upkeep, including sealing and treating to prevent moisture damage and rot.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Between Cedar Shakes and Shingles
When deciding between cedar shakes vs. cedar shingles in Lexington, KY, it’s important to consider factors beyond appearance.
Aesthetic Preferences
If you prefer a clean, polished roofline, cedar shingles are likely your best bet. However, if you’re drawn to a more rugged, natural style, cedar shakes offer the unique texture and character that stand out in many Lexington neighborhoods.
Budget
Cedar shingles are generally more budget-friendly, making them an attractive option for many homeowners. While cedar shakes come with a higher upfront cost, they can offer increased durability and a distinctive aesthetic that may be worth the investment.
Weather Resistance
Lexington experiences a range of weather conditions, from hot, humid summers to hailstorms and heavy winds. Cedar shakes, with their thicker construction, tend to perform better in these harsher conditions. MK Contractors LLC also offers synthetic cedar shake and shingle options from DaVinci, providing the look of natural wood with enhanced weather resistance—perfect for Lexington’s unpredictable climate.
Maintenance Commitment
Both cedar shakes and shingles require maintenance, but shakes generally need more frequent care due to their rough texture and thicker profile. Regular cleaning, sealing, and inspections are crucial to prevent issues like moisture buildup or insect damage—something MK Contractors LLC can assist with to extend the life of your cedar roof.
How MK Contractors LLC Can Help with Your Cedar Roofing in Lexington, KY
Choosing between cedar shakes vs. cedar shingles is a big decision, but MK Contractors LLC makes the process easy and stress-free for Lexington homeowners.
Expert Installation and High-Quality Materials
With over 14 years of experience in the roofing industry, MK Contractors LLC specializes in both natural and synthetic cedar roofing. Whether you choose traditional cedar shakes or refined shingles, our team ensures precise installation using only the highest quality materials, including DaVinci synthetic cedar options for increased durability.
Transparent and Personalized Service
We believe that every homeowner deserves clear communication and complete transparency. From your initial inspection to the final walk-through, MK Contractors LLC walks you through every step, answering questions and providing honest recommendations—no pushy sales tactics, just expert advice tailored to your needs.
Protecting Your Investment
We stand behind our work with a 10-year workmanship warranty on roof replacements, ensuring your cedar roof is built to last. Plus, with manufacturer warranties on materials, you can feel confident knowing your investment is protected for years to come.
Storm Damage and Insurance Support
Lexington’s unpredictable weather can take a toll on your roof. If your cedar roof suffers storm damage, MK Contractors LLC will assist you with the insurance claims process, helping to make a stressful situation easier and ensuring you get the coverage you deserve.
Ready to Choose the Perfect Cedar Roof for Your Lexington Home?
Deciding between cedar shakes vs. cedar shingles doesn’t have to be overwhelming. MK Contractors LLC is here to help you weigh the pros and cons of cedar shakes and shingles, so you can select the option that perfectly fits your home’s style, needs, and budget.
Whether you’re drawn to the rugged charm of cedar shakes or the clean, refined look of cedar shingles, our expert team in Lexington, KY is ready to bring your vision to life. Contact MK Contractors LLC today at (859) 551-8982 or email us at info@mkcontractorsllc.com to schedule your professional roof inspection and consultation.
Let’s create a cedar roof that’s beautiful, durable, and built to withstand Lexington’s unique climate—because your home deserves the best.
