Synthetic Cedar Shake Roofing: A Durable Choice

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Are synthetic cedar shake roofs really a durable alternative to traditional wood shakes? You may be surprised to learn that synthetic cedar shake roofing offers a long lifespan and impressive durability, making it a popular choice among homeowners. But how does it compare to natural cedar shakes? Let’s delve into the details and discover the truth about synthetic cedar shake roofing.

Key Takeaways:

  • Synthetic cedar shake roofing mimics the look of real wood shakes but offers greater durability.
  • Natural cedar shake roofs have a lifespan of around 30 years, while synthetic cedar shakes can last up to 40-50 years.
  • Synthetic shakes show less wear and tear over time and have a higher impact rating compared to natural shakes.
  • Synthetic cedar shake roofing is generally more affordable than natural cedar, making it a cost-effective choice.
  • Consider synthetic cedar shake roofing for its durability, longevity, and eco-friendly attributes.

Natural Cedar Shake Roof

A natural cedar shake roof is crafted from premium wood materials, sourced primarily from majestic cedar trees in the Northwest United States or Southwest Canada. The shingles are meticulously hand-split for a rugged and authentic appearance, or sawn for a smoother finish. There are three grades of cedar shake shingles: common, selects, and 100% straight grain. For maximum lifespan, it is recommended to opt for 100% straight grain shingles, as they exhibit the highest quality and durability.

With proper installation and maintenance, a natural cedar shake roof has an average lifespan of around 30 years. Over time, weather and exposure to the elements may cause the shakes to naturally age. They can develop signs of wear such as rot, cracks, and curling, and their color may gradually transition from a fresh cedar hue to a beautifully weathered and worn look. Despite the lack of manufacturer warranties, natural cedar shakes are highly regarded for their aesthetic appeal and ability to enhance a home’s curb appeal.

Synthetic Cedar Shake Roof

A synthetic cedar shake roof is a durable and eco-friendly alternative to traditional wood shakes. Made from recycled materials or engineered polymers, synthetic shakes are designed to replicate the look of natural cedar shakes. With realistic grain patterns and deep grooves, these synthetic shakes are nearly indistinguishable from real shakes.

Synthetic cedar shake roofs offer multiple color options and styles, allowing homeowners to choose a design that suits their aesthetic preferences. They are also known for their longevity, with an expected lifespan of 40-50 years when properly installed and maintained. This extended lifespan surpasses that of natural cedar shakes, making synthetic shakes a more durable choice.

One notable advantage of synthetic cedar shakes is their resistance to wear and tear. They do not rot, crack, or curl over time, maintaining their structural integrity and visual appeal. Unlike natural cedar shakes, synthetic shakes also retain their color throughout their lifespan, ensuring a consistent and fresh appearance on the roof.

Furthermore, some manufacturers offer material warranties for synthetic cedar shakes. These warranties vary in length depending on the brand, providing homeowners with added peace of mind and protection for their investment.

Overall, a synthetic cedar shake roof is an excellent choice for homeowners seeking a long-lasting and low-maintenance roofing solution. With their durability, aesthetic appeal, and warranties, synthetic shakes effectively combine the charm of cedar shakes with the benefits of modern roofing materials.

Lifespan Comparison: Natural vs. Synthetic Cedar Shake

The lifespan of a roof is a crucial factor to consider when deciding between natural and synthetic cedar shake roofing. Natural cedar shake roofs typically have a lifespan of about 30 years, while synthetic cedar shake roofs can last anywhere from 40 to 50 years. The longevity of synthetic shakes is attributed to their high impact rating and resilience against extreme weather conditions, such as hail and strong winds. However, it’s important to note that the lifespan of both types of roofs can be influenced by factors like installation quality and climate.

To extend the lifespan of a natural cedar shake roof, proper maintenance is essential. With regular care and attention, a natural cedar shake roof can potentially reach a lifespan of up to 50 years, especially when installed in an area with suitable conditions. However, it’s worth noting that synthetic cedar shakes generally offer a longer lifespan, making them a durable and reliable choice for homeowners.

Aging and Wear & Tear: Natural vs. Synthetic Cedar Shake

As time passes, both natural and synthetic cedar shake roofs will inevitably show signs of aging and wear & tear. Natural cedar shakes, due to their organic composition, may start to deteriorate, with issues such as rotting, cracking, and curling becoming more evident. Additionally, the color of natural cedar shakes may fade, giving the roof a worn appearance.

On the other hand, synthetic cedar shakes are designed to be resistant to these aging effects. They maintain their aesthetic appeal without significant changes in color or texture throughout their lifespan. Synthetic shakes offer homeowners a consistent, fresh look that lasts for years.

While some homeowners appreciate the natural weathered look of aged cedar shakes, others prefer the durability and consistency provided by synthetic shakes. Both natural and synthetic cedar shakes are considered attractive roofing options, enhancing the curb appeal of any home.

Warranty Comparison: Natural vs. Synthetic Cedar Shake

When it comes to warranties, there are differences between natural and synthetic cedar shake roofs. Natural cedar shake shingles do not come with a manufacturer warranty as they are a naturally occurring material. However, synthetic cedar shake shingles often come with material warranties, the length of which varies by manufacturer.

For example, Davinci Roofscapes offers synthetic cedar shake shingles with a limited lifetime material warranty. It is important to review the specific terms and conditions of the warranty provided by the manufacturer when considering a synthetic cedar shake roof.

Cost Comparison: Natural vs. Synthetic Cedar Shake

When it comes to choosing between natural and synthetic cedar shake roofing, cost is an important factor to consider. Both options are premium roof systems and come with a higher price tag compared to standard asphalt shingle roofs. However, synthetic cedar shake roofs tend to be more cost-effective than their natural counterparts.

The cost of a new synthetic cedar shake roof typically ranges from $14.00 to $18.00 per square foot, making it a more affordable option for homeowners. On the other hand, a natural cedar shake roof can cost around $25.00 to $30.00 per square foot. Keep in mind that the exact cost will vary depending on factors such as the specific product and installation requirements.

It’s important to consider the long-term cost savings of synthetic cedar shake roofs. While they may have a higher upfront cost, they require less maintenance and have a longer lifespan compared to natural cedar shakes. This means you’ll spend less on repairs and replacements over time, ultimately saving money in the long run.

Whether you choose natural or synthetic cedar shake roofing, both options offer the aesthetic appeal of cedar shakes and can enhance the curb appeal of your home. However, if cost is a significant factor for you, synthetic cedar shake roofing provides a more budget-friendly choice without compromising on durability and longevity.

Conclusion

Synthetic cedar shake roofing provides an eco-friendly and durable alternative to traditional wood shakes. With its longer lifespan, resistance to wear and tear, and lower cost compared to natural cedar shakes, synthetic shakes have become a popular choice for homeowners. These synthetic shakes offer the same aesthetic appeal as cedar shakes while minimizing the maintenance and potential issues associated with natural wood roofing materials.

Whether you’re embarking on a new construction project or considering a roof replacement, synthetic cedar shakes are worth considering for their durability, longevity, and affordability. They provide a sustainable solution for those seeking cedar shake alternatives.

Faux cedar shake roofing materials such as synthetic shake roof tiles, synthetic cedar shingles, and synthetic cedar roof panels are designed to closely mimic the appearance of natural cedar shakes. They offer excellent resistance to rot, cracking, and curling, ensuring that your roof will maintain its beautiful look for years to come. Furthermore, synthetic cedar shake roofing is an eco-friendly choice as it often incorporates recycled materials.

By choosing synthetic cedar shake roofing, homeowners can enjoy the benefits of a long-lasting and attractive roof that requires minimal maintenance. Whether you’re in need of a cedar shake roof replacement or seeking eco-friendly roofing alternatives, synthetic cedar shake roofing is a reliable and cost-effective option that will enhance the beauty and functionality of your home.

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