Wood Shake Roof vs. Shingles: What Is The Difference?

Most homeowners are often confused between wood shakes and shingles. While both are made from wood, each option has its qualities and limitations. Wood shakes are thicker, while wood shingles have a comparatively thinner design.

In this blog post, we will compare wood shake roofs vs. shingles. After reading this complete guide we hope you’re able to make the right choice for your roof and home. 

What are Wood Shakes?

Wood shakes are handcrafted roofing materials that are generally hand-split from cedar logs. This manufacturing process gives wood shake roofs their signature rustic appearance with a profile, often with a profile up to 1-inch thick at the butt end. 

They have a rough and textured surface with the natural wood grain and come in irregular shapes and sizes, contributing to a more organic look.

What are Wood Shingles?

In contrast, wood shingles are machine-sawn, resulting in a more uniform appearance. They have a thinner profile compared to shakes, usually around 3/8 to 1/2 inch thick. As they are made using machines, they have a smooth surface on both sides.

Wood shingles provide a consistent shape and size across the roof. They have a tapered design for simple installation and water-shedding

Wood Shake vs. Shingles: A Detailed Comparison

Now that you have a better idea of their design, manufacturing, and appearance, we will compare both of these options based on various factors.

#1 Durability & Longevity

• Wood Shakes: Generally thicker and more durable than shingles, offering better resistance to impact and wind uplift. The lifespan of a wood shake roof can be anywhere between 40–50 years with the right maintenance. 
  
• Wood Shingles: While still durable, they are thinner and may be more prone to warping or cracking over time. The lifespan of wood shingles can be anywhere between 30–40 years.

#2 Cost

• Wood Shakes: Shakes are generally more expensive than shingles due to the labor-intensive manufacturing process. They can cost you anywhere between $6 to $16 per square foot.
  
• Wood Shingles: These are more affordable than shakes, making them a good option for those seeking the beauty of wood roofing on a budget. They can cost you anywhere between $4 to $9 per square foot 

#3 Installation

• Wood Shakes: Their irregular shape and thickness can make installation more challenging, potentially requiring skilled labor and more time. 
  
• Wood Shingles: Easier and faster to install due to their uniform size and shape.

#4 Maintenance:

• Both Shakes and Shingles Require Regular Maintenance: This includes cleaning debris, moss, and algae, as well as applying protective treatments to prevent rot, decay, and insect infestation. 
  
• Shakes: They may require less frequent maintenance than shingles due to their thickness and durability.
  
• Shingles: They might need more frequent attention due to their susceptibility to warping and cracking.

#5 Fire Resistance:

• Both Wood Shakes and Shingles are Naturally Combustible. However, they can be treated with fire retardants to improve fire resistance and meet building codes. 
  
• Check Local Building Codes: Some areas may have restrictions on wood roofing due to fire hazards.

#6 Wind Resistance

• Wood Shakes are Heavier: As we have already discussed above, wood shakes have a heavier design; thus, they can resist heavy winds better. 

• Wood Shingles Have a Thinner Design: On the other hand wood shingles might not resist harsh winds as nicely as wood shakes.

However, the wind resistance of each option also depends on the quality of their installation, so make sure they are installed accurately.

Final Thoughts 

After this detailed comparison of wood shake vs. shingles, we can say that both of these options serve different purposes. While wood shingles are not the best choice for areas with harsh weather such as high winds, they can perform quite well in mild climatic regions. 

On the other hand, if you live in extreme weather conditions wood shakes might be a wiser choice. It is best to consult the professional roofers of your local area, they will give you personalized recommendations and will help you in making the right choice as per your requirements. 

Call Capital Roofing For A Professional Wood Shingle or Shake Installation In Claremore, OK 

At Capital Roofing, we understand the importance of a sturdy roof installation for the longevity of your home. If you are looking for wood shake roof installation in Claremore, or the surrounding areas of Oklahoma, then we are here to assist you. At Capital Roofing, we adhere to the industry’s best practices and only use quality materials. 

Our roofers have relevant experience working with different roofing materials, including wood shingles, wood shakes, asphalt shingles, metal roofs, and more. Whether you need minor repairs or a complete replacement we have got you covered.
We have been serving homes and businesses in Oklahoma for many years, and our team is known for their expertise and customer service. Trust us as your reliable roofing contractors, and we will make sure to offer you the quality roofing services you need. To talk to our experts or to get a custom quote today, feel free to call us at (918) 260-4075.

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