When driving through established neighborhoods in Denton County, you may notice homes with a distinct, textured look that stands out from the standard sea of asphalt shingles. This is often the work of cedar shake roofing. For homeowners looking to combine high-end curb appeal with natural insulation, cedar shakes have remained a premium choice for decades.
At DKG Roofing, we roof North Texas homes, navigating the complexities of North Texas roofing. While modern synthetics are popular, many property owners still prefer the organic beauty and rugged performance of real wood. However, choosing a cedar shake roof in the DFW Metroplex requires an understanding of how natural materials react to our intense heat and volatile storm seasons.
What Exactly is a Cedar Shake?
It is common for people to use the terms 'cedar shingle' and 'cedar shake' interchangeably, but they are different products. A cedar shingle is sawn on both sides, resulting in a uniform thickness and a smooth appearance. A cedar shake, on the other hand, is hand-split or 'tapersplit.' This process creates a highly textured, rugged surface on the exposed side, while the back remains flat for installation.
Cedar shakes are typically thicker than shingles, providing a heavier shadow line that many homeowners find architecturally superior. Because they are made from natural Western Red Cedar, they contain organic oils that act as a natural preservative, helping the wood resist decay and insect damage even in humid conditions.
The Benefits of Choosing Cedar for Your North Texas Home
Performance in the DFW climate is always the top priority. One of the biggest advantages of cedar is its thermal performance. Unlike asphalt, which absorbs and holds heat, wood allows the attic to breathe more effectively. This can lead to lower energy bills during those 100-degree July days in Denton.
Furthermore, cedar is structurally strong. In a region where storm damage is a frequent concern, the natural durability of a premium wood shake provides an added layer of peace of mind. As a veteran-owned business, we value materials that are built to last and stand up to a challenge.
- Natural Insulation: Wood is a natural insulator, helping keep homes cooler in the Texas summer and warmer in the winter.
- Impact Resistance: While not invincible, thick cedar shakes can actually perform better against mid-sized hail than some low-grade asphalt products.
- Wind Resistance: Due to their weight and the way they are installed, cedar shakes can withstand high-wind events common in North Texas.
- Aesthetic Longevity: As cedar ages, it matures from a warm cinnamon color to a sophisticated silver-gray patina.
Maintenance and Considerations
A cedar shake roof is an investment, and like any investment, it requires upkeep. In North Texas, the primary enemies of wood roofing are UV rays and debris accumulation. Over time, the sun can bake the natural oils out of the wood, leading to cracking or 'curling' if the shakes aren't high quality. Identifying these issues early through a professional roof inspection is vital to preventing leaks.
Homeowners should also be aware of moisture. If overhanging trees drop leaves or needles onto the roof, they can trap moisture against the wood, leading to rot or moss growth. Keeping the roof surface clear and ensuring proper gutter function is non-negotiable for cedar owners.
Installation and Cost Factors
Installing a cedar shake roof is a specialized craft. It requires specific nailing patterns and the use of interlaid felt layers to ensure the system is watertight. This is not a project for a general handyman; it requires an experienced residential roofing contractor who understands the nuances of wood expansion and contraction.
From a cost perspective, cedar shakes are more expensive than traditional shingles but often less than slate or high-end tile. The price fluctuates based on the grade of the wood—specifically the ratio of 'clear' wood to knots. We always recommend 'Heavy' or 'Jumbo' shakes for North Texas homes to provide the best resistance against our erratic weather patterns.