Frequently Asked Questions About Cedar Roofs

At Roof Right, a roofing contractor in Hampstead, Maryland, we work with many different types and styles of roofs. One of the biggest things we get questions on is about Cedar Roofs. So, with this piece we wanted to address frequently asked questions about cedar roofs and help you understand this type of roof even better.

What is the difference between a shake and a shingle?

A shingle is sawn on both sides and is thinner at the butt than a shake. A shake is usually thicker and is typically split on one or both sides. Shingles are more precisely milled than shakes and provide a more refined appearance. Shakes provide a more irregular, rustic appearance. Functionally, the most important difference between shakes and shingles is that shingles are milled more precisely than shakes allowing them to lay flat.

How are cedar shakes and shingles manufactured?

Shingles are sawn on both sides from a block of cedar. Cedar shingles are usually manufactured using a stationary upright saw. The cedar block is moved through the path of the saw creating angled cuts with each stroke. After being cut from the block the shingles are then trimmed to make square corners. Shakes are still manufactured by hand and are split straight from the block. The shakes are then sawn end to end at an angle creating a shake that is sawn on one side and split at the other.

What is the lifespan of a cedar roof?

The expectancy of a cedar roof will depend on many factors. Some of these factors include age, environment, quality of installation, and care/maintenance. The average lifespan of a cedar roof is approximately 30-40 years. Climate, exposure, and proximity to salt water may also impact the longevity of a cedar roof. It is recommended that you investigate the lifespan of cedar roofs in your area. Generally, the lifespan of a shake roof is slightly longer.

How much will it cost?

The cost of a new cedar roof can truthfully be quite expensive and will depend on factors such as size and shape of the roof as well as the availability of the product.

How wind resistant are cedar roofs?

Cedar roofs are naturally wind and weather resistant. Cedar shakes and shingles have been tested for their quality and durability against wind/weather damage. Cedar roofs also do great with hail and ice conditions.

About Roof Right

At Roof Right we have realized customer service and trust are poorly lacking in the roofing industry. That is why our roofing company takes pride in our exceptional service which includes showing up when we say we will, providing a thorough 17-point inspection, listening to you so we can make a quick and thorough diagnosis of your roofing problem, and cleaning up after ourselves as we work. In addition to offering residential roofing services and roof repairs in Maryland. Roof Right is proud to offer the following services:

Roofing & Gutter Maintenance – Your roof, just like your car, should get routine inspections. Your roof gets more abuse from the elements than any other part of your home and preventative maintenance is a key element to a longer service life. Protect your home with the Roof Right Shield Program. Every year, our expert roofers will climb up on your roof and into your attic to ensure that your roof is providing you with the maximum protection for your home. Learn more about roofing & gutter maintenance. 

Skylights & Solatubes – Brighten your home with natural sunlight with skylights & solatubes installed by the team at Roof Right! Sunlight in your home can transform a dark room into one that is bright and full of natural light. It can also highlight textures, and bring out the vibrant colors of your furniture. And that is a beautiful thing! Skylights allow you to light your home for free during the day using natural sunlight. That means you can spend less on electricity and more on you! Roof Right offers a complete system of skylight products for any kind of roof. Learn more about skylights & solatubes.

Gutters – Installing a new seamless gutter system is one of the most critical aspects of all home repairs. Improving the drainage around the home can have a significant impact on the stability of the foundation and the life of your home. Roof Right installs gutters and gutter guards that will efficiently channel water away from your home. Learn more about gutters. 

Siding – Looking to add curb appeal along with improving your homes energy efficiency? No paint. No stain. No hassles. Vinyl siding delivers strength, durability, and beauty of real wood with a variety of design options and multiple color options. Based on an average size home, repainting can cost thousands of dollars every few years. Vinyl siding never needs painting, caulking or patching because, unlike wood, it won’t crack, peel, rot or split. Roof Right carries siding from the best manufacturers in the industry, including Mastic, CertainTeed, James Hardie. Learn more about siding. 

Windows – Reduce your energy bills & increase the curb appeal of your home with energy efficient windows installed by Roof Right!  There are hundreds of vinyl window brands on the market today – but they are not all created equal. Many ordinary vinyl windows are designed only for low cost, not for value. We install top-of-the-line, energy efficient windows for long-lasting great looks. We carry a wide selection of energy efficient products from trusted manufacturers. Learn more about windows. 

Doors – Roof Right and ProVia® are dedicated to making entry doors the professional way. ProVia entry doors are energy efficient, built to quality standards and gives you many choices to entry-level doors that are sold through box stores. Roof Right installers have attended entry systems and storm door training with ProVia®. We have software that will allow you to build your new entry door on our computer so you can see the many different options and price ranges available. ProVia® builds their doors with care in every detail. They don’t cut corners and pay attention to the smallest details. The replacement doors can be customized to your individual taste and style. They are an industry leader in building residential doors. Learn more about doors. 

Decks & Patios –  We can help you design a deck for your home that can bring you many years of enjoyment and improve your home’s value. Let us guide you through the design and construction of your dream deck. From designing the deck for your needs and budget, to getting all the necessary permits, we will make the construction process as pleasant as possible. Choose Roof Right to build a custom deck that will increase your living space and become your favorite relaxation and entertaining spot. Learn more about decks & patios.