The history of cedar shakes in North America dates back to colonial times when many homes throughout the colonies relied on cedar as a roof covering.As the nation expanded, so did cedar shake roofing, with the material used on homes as far West as California by the 1800s, creating a large quantity of california cedar shake homes.
This popularity was for two main reasons:
Cedar shakes were readily available and fairly inexpensive, particularly in California.
Cedar shakes are a unique, beautiful roof covering.
Cedar shakes were also a popular choice for the protection they provided, effectively withstanding the elements for the most part. It was as they gained popularity in California that issues began to arise.
While durable, cedar wasn't fire-resistant and could easily burn. They are also prone to holding moisture, which creates an environment for mold growth and rot. According to many insurance companies, these issues make cedar shakes a danger, and they refuse to give homes coverage if they use any form of wood shake or shingle. Another issue is the cost and installation; they are difficult to install and, these days, are expensive to replace.
Despite these drawbacks, cedar shakes remain an extremely popular option. To help alleviate concerns, many roofing manufacturers have begun looking for ways to have the look of natural cedar shakes without the disadvantages that come with them.
How Are Cedar Shakes Produced?
The long history of wood woofing means that production methods have evolved over time. Traditionally, they are made with a saw and ax, with the earliest styles cut thin and planed smooth, which made for easier installation and better coverage. Eventually, the method of cutting the shakes changed, and the thicker, rough-textured shake from split logs known today came to be. These shakes are the reason for the material's popularity; the method means that no two shakes are the same, with some thicker and bigger than others, creating a three-dimensional appearance on a roof. That rustic look appealed to homeowners from New England to California.
This popularity led to some manufacturers adopting modern techniques to help meet demand. Despite being machine cut, the rough texture remained on the top of the shake, while the bottom was planed smooth to allow for a more water-tight fit.
California Cedar Shake Roof Costs
A few factors go into the cost of California cedar shakes: product cost, installation, and maintenance.
Material Cost
Cedar shakes can cost anywhere from $6 to $15.50 per square foot. Cost is affected by the grade of the shakes, with three available levels:
Straight grain is the "Level 1" grade and most expensive. These shakes lie flat and are more resistant to warping and curling.
Level 2, or select cedar, contains 80% straight grain, making them a little more affordable without sacrificing quality too much.
Level 3, or common grade shakes, are the most budget-friendly option. They don't lay flat and are more prone to warping and curling, requiring more maintenance.
Labor Costs
Labor to replace an existing roof can average anywhere from $40 to $60 per hour or around $2 to $7 per square foot. Labor rates vary depending on companies and location. Because cedar shakes are installed piece-by-piece, they require more time and expertise, which adds to the cost.
Maintenance Costs
Cedar shake roofs, regardless of grade, require regular maintenance to maintain their appearance and longevity. A professional roof cleaning costs about $765 on overage, but prices vary depending on location and other factors.
The Problem With Cedar Shakes in California
There is one major problem with having cedar shakes in california: Wildfires.
In 1991, the Oakland Hills Firestorm destroyed 1,520 acres of land, including 2,843 single-family homes and 437 apartment and condominium units. It also resulted in 25 deaths and 150 injuries, which led to debates about the safety of wood roofing products not treated with fire retardant chemicals—and even later a ban on untreated wood products. In 2001, stricter requirements were created for California cedar shakes, requiring them to be fire-resistant and pass a natural weathering test.
The state went a step further: homes with roofs that weren't fire-treated had until August 2012 to replace them with an approved product. Despite Title 24 allowing fire-treated shakes on Californian homes, many insurance companies still refuse to provide coverage. If they do, they require special underlayments to further reduce the risk of fire damage.
The California State Building Code states that no wood roofing materials can be sold in the state on or after January 1, 2001, unless the product has at least 5 of the 10-year weathering tests. Additionally, under Title 24 requirements, wood roofing must be treated with fire retardant chemicals and meet several other requirements.
California Cedar Shake Installation Process
Despite the additional requirements, California cedar shakes are installed the same way as any cedar shake roof.
1. Install the Ventilation Components
All roof systems require ventilation to allow air to flow properly below the roof underlay and prevent moisture buildup. You will want to install it according to the included instructions.
2. Put Underlayment in Place
All underlayments are installed similarly, but you will want a fire-resistant one to provide extra protection from California wildfires.
You will place this underlayment across the roof, ensuring overlap between the layers.
Pull it below the support trays and secure each with a self-adhesive tape.
3. Place the Roof Battens
The next step is placing the roof battens across the width of your roof, which will depend on the shape, size, and overall design of the roof system. Typically, they start about five inches from the fascia's outer edge. Once it is in the right position, nail them into place, placing each one five inches apart.
4. Install Shakes in Layers
Installing the shakes correctly is critical; the first layer helps to protect the underlayment. You want to ensure the shingles overhang from the roof's eaves by about one and a half inches. Shakes should be installed with two side-by-side and a third directly on top, over the joint.
You also want to leave a gap of around one-fifth of an inch between the two shingles, which will allow for ventilation and natural thermal movement. Once in place, you can use staples and nails to secure them, placing the fasteners three-fourths from the edge of each lower shake and one inch from the butt for the third top shake.
You'll continue this pattern up to the roofline.
5. Trim the Edges of the Shakes
Finally, you want to cut the top layer of the shakes with a hand saw or utility knife to ensure an even ridgeline. The ridge should extend around five inches from the fascia, and you want the cut to be uniform.
While the installation process seems relatively straightforward, it is better left to a professional with the experience necessary to install it without damaging the shakes, which can leave the roof vulnerable.
Cedar Shake Maintenance
Cedar shake maintenance is a multi-step process.
It starts with removing debris and vegetation from the roof. This includes getting leaves off the surface and trimming back low-hanging branches. It eliminates sources of moisture and removes fire hazards from being too close to the roof.
Next, you'll want to clean the gutters so they are clear and ready to move water during the next rainstorm.
Cleaning the surface of the roof comes next. While more cosmetic, it can help maintain the strength and integrity of the roof.
Applying treatments every couple of years can also help with the longevity of your roof and maintaining fire-resistant properties. Treatment options include water replants, fungicides, and algaecides.
The Alternative of California Cedar Shakes
It isn't hard to understand why California is so strict about wood roofing products. In 2020, there were over 9,000 fires that destroyed over four million acres, a record number for the state. However, for those who are still wanting to have a cedar shake roof in California, there is an alternative that gives you the natural-woord aesthetics without the fire hazard—one that even insurance companies can't deny: composite cedar shakes.
Composite cedar shake roof tiles, also called synthetic roofing, are made of 100% recycled materials and offer Class C to Class A fire ratings and the highest impact ratings possible while looking like the natural material.
California Cedar Shake Colors
There is no shortage of cedar shake colors when it comes to composite cedar shake, though that does not necessarily mean all colors can be used in California. The state is divided into 16 distinct climate zones. Depending on where you live, the Title 24 regulations will vary.
For example, homes in Zone 4 and Zones 8-15 must use certified cool roof products for new construction or replace more than half of their roof, but Zones 1-3 and 5-7 don't have these requirements.
Other Factors for Choosing Cedar Shake Roof Color in California
Title 24 requirements aren't the only thing to consider when choosing a roof color. You also want to think about:
House Type: The architecture of your home can play a deciding role in the color; contemporary homes may work better with darker, neutral colors. A more traditional architecture may work better with more traditional shake colors.
House Colors: Creating a cohesive design is important; you want your roof color to match the siding and accent trims.
Environmental Surroundings: Do you have a home by the beach? By a lake? Consider this when choosing your color as well.
Neighborhood Aesthetics: While you don't want to copy your neighbors, you don't want to be too different in your design choices.
Brava, a Step Above the Rest
Brava's composite cedar shakes perfectly solve California's roofing dilemma. These composite shakes perfectly replicate that hand-split texture with tiles coming in varying widths and thicknesses, giving them an authentic, dimensional appearance.
They also offer Class A fire resistance, the highest fire rating possible, and meet Title 24's "cool roof" requirements with their Woodland and Driftwood color options.
These cool roof requirements help to reduce the heat buildup, which can reduce your reliance on cooling systems, extending its life and reducing your utility bills significantly.
Other benefits of Brava include:
50-year limited warranty
Class 4 impact rating
Made from 100% recycled materials, it can be recycled again at the end of its lifespan.
Three widths and two thicknesses provide a more authentic appearance
Two Title 24-compliant "cool roof" colors
It doesn't require special equipment or tools for installation.
Virtually maintenance free
Brava Cedar Shake Inspiration
Here are some projects using Brava's Composite cedar shake to help give you some inspiration on how to make the work as California cedar shakes.
1. A Classic Look
This home features a relatively classic look, white siding and contrasting dark shudders. The gable-style roof has multiple dormers and is covered with Brava’s “Weathered” roof color, one of the cool roof options, creating a beautiful contrast.
2. A Unique Build
This large home has a unique shape; from above, it’s almost like it mimics a castle in appearance. The white stucco is complimented nicely by Brava’s “New Cedar” colored shakes.
3. A Classic Tutor
This beautiful tutor home combines white stucco with brick and Brava’s “Light Arendale” shakes to create an impressive exterior that will wow all guests.
4. A Home With a Pool
This U-Shaped home surrounds the pool in the backyard with the cool roof “Lake Forest” colored shakes topping off the relatively simple home design.
Getting Cedar Shakes in California With Brava
Cedar shakes are popular roofing, and Brava has made it possible for california residents to have the cedar shake look without having to be concerned about wildfires; the composite products offer the highest fire ratings possible, making them safe for any part of California.
Contact Brava today to learn more about our composite cedar shakes and request samples.
