In this guide, we present a side-by-side comparison of cedar shingles and shakes vs. asphalt roofing, with focus on material composition, installation costs, plus pros and cons and ROI of each option. Let’s get started!
The Difference Between Wood Shingles & Cedar Shakes
When used in roof covering, wood can be either shakes or shingles. Wood shakes have been used for centuries. They are split from logs and often left as split to retain the textured, rough-hewn effect.
A wood shake is instantly recognizable by its thick butt end. With the advent of commercial sawmills, a wood shake was often sawn after splitting to achieve a uniform back side.
These sawmills also produced a completely uniform product with an even taper and identical thickness by sawing shakes on both sides. This manufactured product is known as a wood shingle.
California redwood, western red cedar, cypress, spruce, and pine are all used to manufacture wood shakes and shingles. Cedar is the most popular wood for shakes, southern yellow pine is also popular. Wood shakes and shingles can be pressure treated with fire retardants and chemical preservatives.
Standing seam is a descriptive industry term for vertical sheet metal panels featuring the characteristic raised seams that form a watertight lock. The seams are typically raised above the level of the metal roofing panels, which gives the roof a distinctive appearance.
The seams are usually between 1 and 2 inches high and are either snap-locked or mechanically seamed together to create a watertight seal. Standing seam roofing can be made from a variety of metals, including coated steel, aluminum, zinc, and copper.
Standing seam is of the most popular metal roofing styles for homes, thanks to its durability, longevity, simplicity, versatility, energy efficiency, and its clean, bold looks.
Living in the hurricane-prone areas like coastal Florida, Georgia, Carolinas, and Gulf states like Texas and Louisiana, means your roof needs to withstand extreme weather—high winds, heavy rain, and flying debris. Choosing the right hurricane-grade roofing system is critical for safeguarding your home and family during hurricane season.
Let’s explore the most durable roofing systems, focusing on wind resistance, durability, and cost, so you can make an informed decision.
Why Hurricane-Grade Roofing Matters
Hurricanes can produce winds of over 150 mph, which can easily tear off a poorly installed or low-quality roof. A hurricane-resistant roof provides wind resistance, waterproofing, and impact protection, ensuring your home can withstand the elements and minimize damage.
Best Roofing Systems for Hurricane Zones
1. Metal Roofing
Standing seam metal roof on a single-story home
Durability and Longevity: 35+ years Wind Resistance: Up to 160 mph Cost:$11.50 – $20.50 per square foot installed
Average Roof Replacement Cost:
Low End
$7,500
Mid-Range
$10,500
High End
$14,500
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Metal roofing is one of the most wind-resistant roofing systems available, with interlocking panels and shingles that offer superior protection against wind uplift. Not only are they lightweight and durable, but they also reflect heat, reducing home energy costs.
Types of Metal Roofing:
Standing Seam: Vertical panels interlock to form a strong barrier against wind and water.
Stone-Coated Steel Roofing Shingles and Tiles: These mimic the appearance of traditional materials like clay or slate, while offering the durability and wind resistance of steel. The stone coating adds extra protection against corrosion and provides an aesthetic appeal.
Source: Kuhl’s Contracting
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