Cedar shake shingles offer a timeless, natural look that few roofing materials can match. Known for their durability, insulation properties, and rustic curb appeal, they remain a popular choice for homeowners who want a premium roofing material. However, cedar shake is not the right fit for every climate or every homeowner. In this guide, we cover everything you need to know — from the benefits and environmental advantages to the real maintenance demands and how cedar shake performs in Louisiana’s heat and humidity.
Cedar shake shingles are a roofing material made from split logs of western red cedar. They are cut into thin, irregularly shaped pieces and individually installed on the roof, creating a textured, layered appearance. Cedar shakes come in several varieties, including preservative-treated, fire-retardant treated, and untreated natural wood shakes.
Unlike machine-cut cedar shingles (which have a smooth, uniform finish), hand-split shakes have a rougher texture and thicker profile that gives them their distinctive rustic character. The natural oils in cedar wood make it resistant to rot, decay, and insect damage — qualities that contribute to the material’s longevity when properly maintained.
Natural Insulation: Cedar’s wood fibers provide superior insulation compared to asphalt or composite shingles. This helps regulate indoor temperatures, keeping homes cooler in summer and warmer in winter while reducing energy costs.
Durability and Longevity: With proper maintenance, cedar shake roofs can last 30 to 50 years. Cedar’s natural oils repel water and resist insect damage, and the material is dimensionally stable — it does not expand or contract significantly with temperature changes.
Aesthetic Appeal: Cedar shakes add natural warmth and character to any home. Over time, they develop a distinctive silver-gray patina that many homeowners find attractive. Each shake is unique, giving the roof a handcrafted look that increases curb appeal and property value.
Fire Resistance: When treated with fire retardant during production, cedar shakes carry a Class A fire rating — the highest available. The natural oils in cedar also provide some inherent resistance to flames and high temperatures.
Noise Reduction: The thick, layered construction of cedar shake roofs helps dampen outside noise more effectively than thinner roofing materials.
Cedar shake shingles are one of the most eco-friendly roofing options available:
Cedar shake is a premium material, but homeowners in Louisiana, Mississippi, and the Gulf Coast region should understand how it performs in this specific climate before committing to it.
Heat and UV Exposure: Louisiana’s intense summer heat and UV radiation accelerate the weathering of untreated cedar. Without regular application of UV-protective sealants, shakes can dry out, crack, and lose their structural integrity faster than they would in cooler, northern climates.
Humidity and Moisture: The Gulf Coast’s year-round humidity is the biggest challenge for cedar shake roofs. Persistent moisture creates ideal conditions for mold, mildew, and algae growth — particularly on shaded sections of the roof. Left untreated, this biological growth traps moisture against the wood, accelerating rot.
Hurricane and Wind Resistance: While cedar shakes are heavier than asphalt shingles (which helps in moderate wind), they are individually fastened and can be vulnerable to uplift in Category 3+ hurricanes. Homeowners in high-wind zones should factor this into their decision.
Higher Maintenance Burden: In a Gulf Coast climate, cedar shake roofs require more frequent inspections and treatments than they would in the Pacific Northwest or New England. Plan on annual inspections, moss/algae treatments, and sealant reapplication every 3–5 years to get the full lifespan out of the material.
Bottom Line: Cedar shake can work in Louisiana, but it is a higher-maintenance choice here than in cooler, drier climates. If you value the natural aesthetic and are prepared for the upkeep, it can be a beautiful, long-lasting roof. If low maintenance is a priority, consider metal roofing or architectural asphalt shingles as alternatives better suited to our climate.
Proper maintenance is the difference between a cedar shake roof that lasts 20 years and one that lasts 50. Here is what to stay on top of:
Regular Cleaning (Every 6 Months): Use a soft brush and garden hose to remove leaves, twigs, and debris from the surface and nearby gutters. Do not use a high-pressure power washer, as this can damage the wood fibers.
Inspections (Twice a Year): Check for curling, cracking, or missing shakes in spring and fall. Look for signs of water damage such as blistering paint on eaves or sagging gutters. Catch problems early before they become structural issues.
Moss and Algae Treatment: In humid climates, apply a moss-killer or algae treatment as soon as any growth appears. Moss traps moisture and accelerates wood rot. Zinc or copper strips installed near the ridge can help prevent growth between treatments.
Sealant and Preservative: Apply a waterproof sealant or wood preservative every 3–5 years to protect against moisture penetration, UV damage, and insect intrusion. This is especially critical in Louisiana’s humid climate.
Tree Trimming: Keep overhanging branches trimmed back from the roof. Branches that scrape against shakes in wind cause surface damage, and overhanging limbs create shade that promotes moss and algae growth.
Prompt Repairs: Replace damaged or missing shakes immediately. A single gap in the roof surface can allow water intrusion that leads to rot in the underlying decking.
“Cedar shake roofs are a fire hazard.” This was true decades ago, but modern cedar shakes are treated with fire retardant during manufacturing. Treated cedar shakes carry a Class A fire rating and will not easily ignite or contribute to flame spread.
“They only last 15–20 years.” Untreated, neglected cedar shake roofs in harsh climates may only last 15–20 years. However, with proper maintenance — regular cleaning, sealant application, and prompt repairs — cedar shake roofs routinely last 30–50 years.
“Cedar shakes require constant maintenance.” They do require more attention than asphalt shingles, but the maintenance is straightforward: two inspections a year, periodic cleaning, and sealant every few years. It is not the all-consuming burden some homeowners fear.
“They are too expensive.” The upfront cost is higher — typically $6 to $9 per square foot installed — but the 30–50 year lifespan means fewer replacements over time. Cedar shake roofs may also qualify for insurance discounts as a fire-resistant material and potential tax credits in some areas.
Cedar shake shingle roofing is a premium product with costs that reflect the material quality and installation skill required:
| Factor | Details |
|---|---|
| Material Cost | $6–$9 per square foot (installed) |
| Lifespan | 30–50 years with proper maintenance |
| Maintenance | Annual inspections + sealant every 3–5 years |
| Insurance | May qualify for discounts (fire-resistant rating) |
| vs. Asphalt Shingles | Higher upfront, but 2–3x longer lifespan offsets cost |
When comparing roofing materials, factor in the total cost of ownership over 30+ years — not just the initial installation price. A cedar shake roof that lasts 40 years may cost less overall than two asphalt roofs over the same period.
Cedar shake shingles are a beautiful, durable roofing option — but they are not for everyone, especially in Gulf Coast climates where humidity demands extra attention. The team at Big Easy Roofers can help you evaluate whether cedar shake is the right choice for your home, or whether another material would better suit your needs and budget. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation.
How long do cedar shake roofs last in Louisiana?
With proper maintenance including annual inspections, regular cleaning, and sealant application every 3–5 years, cedar shake roofs can last 30–50 years in Louisiana. Without consistent upkeep, the high humidity and heat can reduce the lifespan to 15–20 years.
Are cedar shake shingles fire resistant?
Yes. Modern cedar shakes are treated with fire retardant during production and carry a Class A fire rating — the highest available. They will not easily ignite or contribute significantly to flame spread.
How much does a cedar shake roof cost?
Cedar shake roofs typically cost $6 to $9 per square foot installed. While more expensive upfront than asphalt, their 30–50 year lifespan makes them cost-competitive over the long term. Some homeowners also qualify for insurance discounts.
Do cedar shake roofs work in humid climates?
Cedar shake can work in humid climates like Louisiana, but it requires more frequent maintenance than in drier regions. Regular moss and algae treatments, sealant application, and inspections are essential to prevent moisture-related damage.
Are cedar shakes environmentally friendly?
Yes. Cedar is a sustainably harvested, renewable resource. Cedar shakes are biodegradable, produce fewer VOC emissions than synthetic materials, and their long lifespan means fewer replacements and less waste over time.
By Admin 
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May 29, 2023