The exterior of a home is its first impression—a statement of style, quality, and character. Among the myriad of siding options available, shake shingle siding stands out for its timeless beauty and rustic charm. For centuries, homeowners have chosen wood shakes to create warm, inviting, and durable exteriors. The textured, organic look of shake siding connects a home to its natural surroundings, offering a sense of authenticity that few other materials can match.
This guide will provide a comprehensive look at the pros and cons of shake shingle siding. We will explore its rich history, the different types of shakes available, and the modern material alternatives. From installation and maintenance to durability and cost, you will gain a clear understanding of what it takes to own a home with this beautiful and enduring siding. By weighing its distinct advantages against its practical considerations, you can decide if shake shingle siding is the right choice to bring your home’s vision to life.
Introduction to Shake Shingle Siding
Shake shingle siding has a classic and enduring appeal that transcends fleeting design trends. Its rich texture and natural warmth make it a favorite for homeowners seeking to create a home with character and distinction.
Why Shake Shingle Siding Remains a Popular Exterior Choice
Despite the introduction of many modern, low-maintenance materials, shake shingle siding remains popular for its unmatched aesthetic. The natural variations in color, grain, and texture of real wood shakes create a unique, one-of-a-kind facade. Homeowners are drawn to its authentic, rustic charm and its ability to add a touch of elegance and warmth to any architectural style.
How Siding Shapes a Home’s First Impression
The siding is the most dominant feature of a home’s exterior. It sets the tone for the entire property. Shake shingle siding makes a powerful statement, conveying a sense of quality, craftsmanship, and connection to nature. It can make a new home feel established and a historic home feel authentic, significantly boosting its curb appeal and making a memorable first impression.
A Blend of Rustic Beauty and Modern Durability
While traditional cedar shakes are prized for their beauty, modern advancements have broadened the category. Homeowners can now choose natural wood that has been treated for enhanced fire resistance and longevity, or they can opt for engineered alternatives like vinyl and fiber cement that replicate the look of wood with added durability and lower maintenance. This allows homeowners to achieve the rustic aesthetic with performance characteristics that suit their lifestyle and climate.
What Is Shake Shingle Siding?
Shake shingle siding is a type of exterior cladding made from individual pieces of material, typically wood, that are layered to protect a home while creating a textured, dimensional appearance.
Definition and Historical Background
Historically, shakes were split by hand from logs, while shingles were sawn. This difference in manufacturing created two distinct looks: shakes were thicker and more irregular, while shingles were thinner and more uniform. Today, the terms are often used interchangeably to describe this style of siding.
Origins of Hand-Split Wood Shingles
The use of wood shingles and shakes for roofing and siding dates back centuries. Early settlers in North America discovered that woods like cedar were not only abundant but also naturally resistant to rot and insects. They would split logs by hand using a mallet and froe to create thick, rustic shakes to protect their homes from the harsh elements.
Evolution from Traditional Cedar to Modern Materials
For a long time, cedar was the undisputed king of shake siding. However, concerns over maintenance, cost, and fire resistance led to the development of modern alternatives. Manufacturers now produce shake and shingle siding from durable materials like vinyl and fiber cement, offering the classic look with enhanced performance and less upkeep.
Common Materials Used
The shake shingle look can be achieved with several different materials, each with its own set of characteristics.
Cedar, Pine, Redwood, and Cypress
These are the traditional wood species used for shakes. Western Red Cedar is the most popular due to its beautiful color, straight grain, and natural resistance to moisture and decay. Redwood is also prized for its durability, while pine and cypress are other viable, though less common, options.
Engineered Alternatives — Vinyl and Fiber Cement Options
Vinyl shake siding is a lightweight and affordable option that is molded to replicate the texture of real wood. It requires minimal maintenance and is impervious to rot and pests. Fiber cement shakes offer a premium alternative, providing a highly durable, fire-resistant, and realistic-looking product that combines the best of wood’s beauty and masonry’s strength.
The Appeal of Shake Shingle Siding
The enduring appeal of this siding style lies in its unique visual character and its versatility.
Textured, Organic Look That Enhances Natural Beauty
The layered, textured surface of shake siding creates beautiful shadow lines and a sense of depth that a flat siding panel cannot. The natural grain and color variations of real wood add an organic warmth that feels connected to the landscape.
Ideal for Coastal, Cottage, and Contemporary Homes
Shake siding is incredibly versatile. It is the signature look for coastal New England homes and charming cottages. It is also a key element of Craftsman architecture. In recent years, architects have begun using smooth, uniformly colored shakes on modern homes to add texture without sacrificing a clean, contemporary aesthetic.
Types of Shake Shingle Siding
When choosing real wood shakes, the way the shake is cut from the log determines its final appearance. There are three primary types.
Hand-Split Shakes
This is the most rustic and traditional type of shake, designed to look like the original, historic product.
Crafted Using Traditional Tools for Natural Texture
Hand-split shakes have a rugged, irregular surface texture created by splitting the wood along its natural grain. This gives them a highly authentic and character-rich appearance, where no two shakes are exactly alike.
Ideal for Rustic and Classic Home Designs
The irregular texture and substantial thickness of hand-split shakes make them perfect for rustic-style homes, log cabins, mountain lodges, and historic restoration projects where authenticity is paramount.
Taper-Sawn Shakes
Taper-sawn shakes offer a compromise between the rustic look of a shake and the uniform look of a shingle.
Blends the Look of Shingles with the Texture of Shakes
These shakes are sawn on both sides, like a shingle, but they have a thicker butt end, like a shake. This gives them a more uniform thickness and a semi-textured surface that is less rugged than a hand-split shake.
Perfect for Transitional or Modern Homes
The cleaner lines and more refined texture of taper-sawn shakes make them a great choice for transitional homes that blend traditional and modern elements. They can also be used on contemporary homes to add a touch of natural texture.
Resawn Shakes
This type of shake offers the rustic look on the outside with a practical advantage for installation.
Hand-Split Front, Smooth Back for Easy Installation
A resawn shake is split by hand on the exposed face to create a rustic texture, but it is sawn smooth on the back side. This smooth back allows the shake to lie flat against the wall, making installation easier and more consistent.
Balances Rustic Character with a Clean Finish
This is a popular choice as it provides the desired rustic character on the exterior while simplifying the installation process for the contractor, often resulting in a cleaner and more secure fit.
Understanding the Durability of Shake Shingle Siding
When properly selected and maintained, natural wood shake siding is an incredibly durable and long-lasting material.
Natural Resistance to Decay and Insects
Certain wood species have inherent properties that help them resist common threats.
Benefits of Cedar’s Natural Oils
Western Red Cedar contains natural oils and tannins that act as preservatives. These substances make the wood resistant to moisture, fungal decay, and insects like termites and carpenter ants. This is why cedar has been the preferred material for exterior applications for centuries.
Weather and Fire Performance
Wood siding’s performance against the elements depends on its species and any treatments it has received.
Fire Retardant Treatments for Higher Safety Ratings
A common concern with wood siding is fire. To mitigate this risk, many manufacturers offer shakes that have been pressure-treated with fire retardants. This treatment can give the shakes a Class A fire rating, the highest level of fire resistance, making them a safe option even in fire-prone areas.
Resistance to Harsh Climates and UV Exposure
Woods like cedar are dimensionally stable, meaning they resist shrinking, swelling, and warping when exposed to changes in temperature and humidity. A quality stain or finish with UV inhibitors is crucial to protect the wood from sun damage and prevent it from turning gray over time if that is not the desired look.
Long Lifespan with Proper Care
With a commitment to regular maintenance, a wood shake exterior can protect a home for a very long time.
Typical Longevity of 30–40 Years or More
A properly installed and maintained cedar shake siding system can easily last 30 to 40 years. In some cases, with meticulous care, it can last for 50 years or more, making it a true lifetime siding.
Installation of Shake Shingle Siding
The installation of shake shingle siding is a craft that requires precision and experience. Proper installation is the most critical factor in its long-term performance.
Step-by-Step Installation Overview
The process involves careful layering to create a beautiful and weatherproof exterior.
Step 1 – Accurate Measurement of Wall Area
The process begins with accurately measuring the walls to calculate the amount of siding and other materials needed. This includes accounting for waste from cuts around windows and doors.
Step 2 – Preparation and Weather-Resistant Barriers
The wall sheathing must be sound and flat. A high-quality, breathable weather-resistant barrier (house wrap) is installed over the sheathing. This acts as a secondary line of defense against any wind-driven rain that might get behind the siding.
Step 3 – Overlapping Installation Technique
Shakes are installed in courses, starting from the bottom of the wall and working up. Each course must overlap the one below it by a specific amount to ensure that water is shed effectively. The joints between shakes in one course must be offset from the joints in the course below to prevent water from penetrating.
Step 4 – Proper Nailing and Spacing (¼–⅜ inch)
Shakes are fastened with corrosion-resistant nails. A crucial detail is leaving a small gap of about 1/4 to 3/8 of an inch between each shake. Wood expands and contracts with changes in humidity, and this gap gives the shakes room to move without buckling.
Professional vs. DIY Installation
While it may be tempting to save on labor costs, installing shake siding is a job best left to experienced professionals.
Why Hiring Experts Ensures Longevity and Aesthetics
An experienced siding contractor who specializes in wood shakes will understand the nuances of the material. They will know how to manage the spacing, create the correct overlaps, and properly flash around windows and doors to create a truly weatherproof system. Mistakes in installation are the number one cause of premature siding failure.
Tools Required for Installation
The installation requires standard carpentry tools like a hammer, tape measure, chalk line, and level, as well as specialized tools like a siding nail gun and a saw with a fine-toothed blade for clean cuts.
The Versatility of Shake Shingle Siding
One of the greatest attributes of shake siding is its ability to be customized to fit a wide range of design visions.
Design and Aesthetic Options
Unlike manufactured siding that comes in a set palette, wood shakes offer a blank canvas.
Customizable Finishes — Natural, Painted, or Stained
Wood shakes can be left to weather naturally to a silvery gray, they can be treated with a clear sealer to maintain their natural wood tone, they can be stained in a semi-transparent or solid color, or they can be painted any color imaginable. This gives homeowners complete control over the final look.
Perfect for Both Traditional and Modern Homes
The same shake siding can look completely different depending on its finish. A rustic, hand-split shake with a natural finish is perfect for a mountain lodge. A smooth taper-sawn shake painted a dark, uniform color can be a stunning textural element on a modern home.
Color and Texture Variations
The natural material itself provides endless variety and character.
Warm Rustic Hues or Bold Contemporary Shades
From the warm reds and golds of natural cedar to the deep charcoals and blues of modern solid stains, the color possibilities are limitless.
Unique Wood Grain Patterns for Individual Style
Because it is a natural product, every single wood shake has a unique grain pattern. This ensures that a wood-sided home has a one-of-a-kind character that cannot be precisely replicated.
Maintaining Your Shake Shingle Siding
To achieve its legendary longevity, natural wood shake siding requires a commitment to regular maintenance.
Key Maintenance Practices
A consistent maintenance schedule is key to protecting your investment.
Regular Sealing to Prevent Moisture Penetration
The most important maintenance task is ensuring the siding remains sealed against moisture. This typically involves reapplying a high-quality water-repellent stain or sealer every 3 to 5 years, depending on the climate and the product used.
Annual Power Washing on Low Pressure
Once a year, the siding should be gently washed to remove accumulated dirt, pollen, and mildew. A power washer can be used, but only on its lowest pressure setting to avoid damaging the wood fibers. A soft-bristled brush and a mild cleaning solution are often a safer choice.
Refinishing Every 8–10 Years for Longevity
Even with regular sealing, the finish will eventually wear down. A full refinishing, which may involve stripping the old finish and applying a new one, is often necessary every 8 to 10 years to keep the wood fully protected and looking its best.
Preventing Common Issues
Proactive measures can prevent the most common problems associated with wood siding.
Protecting Against Mold, Insects, and Rot
Regular cleaning and sealing are the best defenses against mold and mildew. If you live in an area with a high risk of termites, choosing a naturally resistant wood like cedar and ensuring the siding is kept clear of contact with the ground are crucial steps. A healthy finish prevents the water absorption that leads to rot.
How Proper Ventilation Extends Lifespan
Proper installation includes a ventilation gap behind the siding. This “rainscreen” gap allows air to circulate, which helps the back of the siding dry out if any moisture gets behind it. This is a critical detail for preventing rot and extending the life of the siding.
Frequently Asked Questions About Shake Shingle Siding
How Long Does Installation Typically Take?
For an average-sized home, a professional installation of shake shingle siding can take anywhere from one to three weeks, depending on the complexity of the home’s architecture and the size of the crew.
How Durable Is Shake Shingle Compared to Other Sidings?
When well-maintained, high-quality wood shake siding is extremely durable, with a lifespan that can match or exceed fiber cement. It is more durable than vinyl in terms of impact resistance but requires significantly more maintenance.
What Maintenance Is Required?
Regular maintenance includes cleaning, inspections for any damaged shakes, and periodic re-application of a protective sealer or stain every 3 to 5 years.
Can You Paint or Stain Shake Shingle Siding?
Yes. It can be painted or stained in any color. Staining is often preferred as it penetrates the wood and tends to be more durable than paint, which forms a film on the surface.
What Climates Are Best for Shake Siding?
Wood shake siding can perform well in most climates, provided it is properly maintained. It is particularly well-suited to climates without extreme, prolonged humidity, as this can make preventing mildew more challenging. A dry climate is ideal.
How Much Space Should Be Left Between Shingles?
A gap of 1/4 to 3/8 of an inch should be left between each shake to allow for natural expansion and contraction with humidity changes.
Can Shake Shingle Siding Be Installed Over Existing Siding?
No. It is never a good practice. The old siding should always be removed to allow for a proper inspection of the wall sheathing and the installation of a new weather-resistant barrier.
Is Shake Shingle Siding Eco-Friendly?
It can be. Cedar is a renewable resource. To ensure it is eco-friendly, look for products that are certified by the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC), which guarantees the wood comes from sustainably managed forests.
Pros and Cons of Shake Shingle Siding
Pros
Aesthetically Pleasing
- Adds natural warmth, texture, and charm to exteriors, creating exceptional curb appeal.
Exceptional Durability
- Withstands harsh weather and lasts for decades with proper care and maintenance.
Excellent Insulation
- Wood has natural thermal resistance, which can help to lower heating and cooling costs.
Highly Customizable
- Can be painted, stained, or left to weather naturally, offering complete control over the final look.
Boosts Property Value
- The premium, high-end look of real wood shake siding significantly increases a home’s resale value.
Cons
High Initial Cost
- Natural wood shake is one of the most expensive siding materials, both for the product and the skilled labor required for installation.
Requires Regular Maintenance
- It needs regular cleaning, sealing, and periodic refinishing to protect it from the elements.
Prone to Pests
- If not properly maintained or if a non-resistant wood species is used, it can be vulnerable to termites, carpenter ants, and woodpeckers.
Vulnerable to Moisture Damage
- If the protective seal fails and is not repaired, the wood can absorb moisture, leading to rot, warping, or cracking.
Limited Fire Resistance
- Untreated wood is combustible and requires pressure treatment with fire retardants to achieve a high safety rating.
Environmental Impact
- If not sourced from sustainably managed forests, logging can have a negative environmental impact. Chemical treatments and stains can also have environmental drawbacks.
Myths and Misconceptions About Shake Shingle Siding
Myth 1 — Shake Shingles Are Not Durable
Fact: Properly treated and maintained shakes can last decades.
High-quality cedar or redwood siding that is properly installed and cared for can easily last 30, 40, or even 50 years.
Cedar’s natural oils protect against decay and weather damage.
The inherent properties of woods like cedar make them naturally resistant to the very things that degrade other materials.
Myth 2 — Shake Shingles Require Constant Maintenance
Fact: Regular inspections and refinishing every few years are enough.
While it is not “maintenance-free” like vinyl, the maintenance schedule is predictable. It does not require constant work, but rather consistent care every few years.
Paint is optional, not mandatory — natural aging adds character.
Many homeowners choose to let their shakes weather naturally to a beautiful silvery gray, which only requires regular cleaning.
Myth 3 — Shake Shingle Siding Is Limited in Style
Fact: Available in multiple profiles and finishes for modern homes.
With different cuts (hand-split, taper-sawn) and endless finish options, shake siding can be adapted to fit rustic lodges, classic Colonials, and sleek modern homes.
Fits seamlessly into rustic, coastal, or minimalist designs.
It is one of the most architecturally versatile siding materials available.
Myth 4 — Shake Shingle Siding Is Too Expensive
Fact: Long-term savings from durability and energy efficiency offset costs.
While the upfront cost is high, its long lifespan means you won’t have to replace it. Its natural insulating properties can also lead to energy savings over time.
Increases home resale value and offers excellent ROI.
As a premium building material, it adds significant value to a home, providing a strong return on investment.
Myth 5 — Shake Shingle Siding Is Bad for the Environment
Fact: Cedar is renewable and biodegradable.
Unlike plastic or composite siding, wood is a natural, renewable resource that will biodegrade at the end of its life.
Sustainable harvesting practices and eco-friendly treatments available.
By choosing FSC-certified wood and low-VOC stains, homeowners can install a wood siding system that is environmentally responsible.
Summary — Is Shake Shingle Siding Right for You?
Choosing shake shingle siding is a decision to invest in natural beauty, timeless character, and long-term value.
The Perfect Balance Between Beauty and Strength
Shake siding offers an aesthetic that is unmatched by synthetic materials, combined with the inherent strength and durability of natural wood.
Exceptional Weather Resistance and Timeless Appeal
When properly cared for, it provides exceptional protection from the elements while offering a classic look that will never go out of style.
A Long-Term Investment in Aesthetic and Structural Value
The high initial cost is an investment in your home’s curb appeal and resale value. It is a premium product for homeowners who prioritize quality and character.
Ideal for Homeowners Seeking Classic Style with Durability
If you love the authentic look of real wood and are prepared for the regular maintenance schedule required to keep it healthy, then shake shingle siding is an ideal choice.
Why Shake Shingle Siding Is a Smart Home Exterior Choice
For the right homeowner, shake shingle siding is a smart choice that delivers a lifetime of beauty and performance. It is a commitment to quality that results in a truly special and valuable home.
About Heritage Exteriors
Trusted Home Remodeling Experts in Roseville, CA
Heritage Exteriors is a team of dedicated professionals specializing in home exterior transformations. Serving the Roseville and greater Northern California area, our focus is on delivering high-quality siding and remodeling solutions that enhance both the beauty and performance of every home we work on.
Specialists in Siding, Windows, and Full Home Renovations
Our expertise covers a wide range of exterior services, including the installation of all types of siding, energy-efficient windows, and other upgrades designed to protect and beautify your home.
Committed to Quality Craftsmanship and Customer Satisfaction
Our company is built on a foundation of quality craftsmanship and unwavering commitment to customer satisfaction. We believe in clear communication, meticulous attention to detail, and using the best materials and installation techniques to achieve outstanding results.
Serving Northern California with Excellence and Integrity
We are proud to have earned the trust of homeowners throughout the region. Our mission is to transform your vision for your home into a reality, creating a beautiful, durable, and efficient space that you and your family will enjoy for years to come.
