Wood Shake & Shingles: Cost, Lifespan & Complete Guide (2025)
Wood shake and shingle roofs offer a natural, rustic beauty that no synthetic material can replicate. Cedar is the most popular wood roofing material due to its natural resistance to insects, rot, and UV degradation. Wood shakes are hand-split for a rough, textured appearance, while wood shingles are machine-cut for a smoother, more uniform look. Both develop a distinguished silver-gray patina over time.
Avg. Cost/Sq Ft
$9.00
Avg. Cost/Square
$900
Typical Lifespan
30 yrs
Full cost range: $6.00 - $14.00 per sq ft($600 - $1400 per roofing square)
Pros & Cons of Wood Shake & Shingles
Advantages
- Beautiful natural appearance
- Develops attractive patina with age
- Good insulation properties
- Naturally resistant to insects (cedar)
- Environmentally friendly — renewable resource
- Wind resistant when properly installed
- Lightweight compared to tile and slate
Disadvantages
- Fire hazard (unless treated) — banned in some areas
- Requires regular maintenance
- Susceptible to moss, mold, and algae
- Higher cost than asphalt
- Splits and cracks over time
- Not suitable for humid climates without treatment
- Some HOAs and municipalities restrict or ban wood roofing
Who Should Choose Wood Shake & Shingles?
Homeowners seeking natural, rustic aesthetics on Craftsman, Cape Cod, or cottage-style homes in dry, moderate climates. Popular in Pacific Northwest and mountain communities.
Types of Wood Shake & Shingles
Cedar Shakes
$8.00-$14.00/sq ft25-40 years
Hand-split for rustic, textured appearance.
Cedar Shingles
$6.00-$10.00/sq ft20-30 years
Machine-cut for smoother, uniform look.
Treated Wood
$9.00-$14.00/sq ft30-40 years
Pressure-treated for fire and rot resistance.
Wood Shake & Shingles vs. Other Materials
| Material | Avg. Cost/Sq Ft | Lifespan |
|---|---|---|
| Wood Shake & Shingles | $9.00 | 30 years |
| Asphalt Shingles | $4.50 | 20 years |
| Metal Roofing | $9.50 | 50 years |
| Tile Roofing | $12.00 | 75 years |
| Slate Roofing | $18.00 | 125 years |
| TPO Roofing | $6.50 | 20 years |
| EPDM Rubber Roofing | $5.50 | 25 years |
| Built-Up Roofing (BUR) | $7.00 | 30 years |