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Shingles Versus Shakes: Which Type Of Wood Roofing Is Better?

11 July 2023 by Leslie Turner

If you tell a roofer that you want a wood roof, they may respond by asking you this question: shingles or shakes? Indeed, there are two common kinds of wood roofing. Shakes are pieces of plain, natural wood that are cut with the grain. Wood shingles are shingles that are typically made with an asphalt backing and a layer of wood on the visible front. So, which type of wood roofing should you choose? Take a closer look at both options and then decide. 

Wood Shakes

An advantage of wood shakes is that they are made from 100% natural wood. There's no asphalt backing. As such, these shakes will break down completely when you eventually remove them from the roof. They are a very eco-friendly option.

Wood shakes have a rather rustic look. The wood tends to turn gray and weather as it ages. By comparison, wood shingles have a more polished, modern aesthetic.

Another advantage of wood shakes is their flexibility. Because they are cut with the grain, the shakes bend a little when faced with hail or strong winds. They are therefore less likely to crack and lead to leaks. If your shake roof does need repairs, the roofer can easily remove and replace single shakes.

Wood Shingles

Wood shingles are often thought to offer better water protection than shakes. The asphalt backing is water-resistant. For this reason, wood shingles are often preferred to shakes in areas that receive heavy rain or snow.

Wood shingles also tend to be better insulators than wood shakes. In other words, they help keep your home cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter. This can lead to lower energy bills and a more comfortable home. You may be able to get away with less attic insulation when you choose wood shingles over wood shakes.

One final advantage of wood shingles is their lifespan. They tend to last longer than wood shakes since they are engineered to be durable and weather-resistant. Every product is different, but it's not unusual to find wood shingles that are rated for years.

If you want wood roofing, it is a good idea to talk to a roofing contractor about both shakes and shingles. They can help you choose the material that better suits your needs. It will mostly depend on your climate, the way your home looks, and your preferences in terms of longevity.

Reach out to a company like Upside Roofing & Siding to learn more.

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