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A shake roof brings a classic, natural beauty to any home. Traditionally made from hand-split wood, often cedar, shake roofs are known for their rich texture and rustic charm. Unlike the flat, uniform look of standard shingles, wood shakes offer a rugged, dimensional appearance that gives homes warmth and character.
Shake roofs have been a trusted choice for centuries, but like any roofing material, they come with their own advantages and considerations.
One of the biggest benefits of a shake roof is its unmatched natural appearance. The texture and variation of each shake create a roof that’s truly one of a kind. Wood is also a natural insulator, helping regulate temperatures inside your home and boosting energy efficiency. When properly installed and maintained, cedar shakes offer strong resistance to insects and harsh weather, and they can add significant curb appeal and value to your property.
However, shake roofs do require more upkeep than other materials. Wood is more vulnerable to mold, mildew, and insect damage if not properly cared for, and without regular maintenance, shakes can split, warp, or fade over time. Additionally, natural wood roofing carries a higher fire risk unless treated with a fire-retardant material.
With regular cleaning, inspections, and occasional treatments, a cedar shake roof can last anywhere from 20 to 30 years, depending on the climate and installation quality.
There are a few different styles of shake roofs to choose from, each offering a slightly different look and performance.
Hand-split and resawn shakes have a rustic, textured face with a smoother sawn back, offering a balance between rugged and refined. Taper-sawn shakes are cut more precisely, giving the roof a neater, more uniform appearance that's closer to traditional shingles but still thicker and more durable. Straight-split shakes, where both sides are rough-split, deliver the most rugged, rustic look — ideal for homes that want a truly natural aesthetic.
Choosing the right type of shake comes down to the style you want and how much texture you prefer for your home’s look.
If you love the beauty of natural shakes but want a longer-lasting, lower-maintenance option, DaVinci Shake Roofs are an excellent solution. DaVinci Roofscapes creates premium synthetic shakes that perfectly replicate the look of real cedar without the downsides of natural wood.
Made from a composite material, DaVinci shakes are designed to last 50 years or more with minimal maintenance. They won't split, crack, or fade like wood, and they offer a Class A fire rating for greater safety. They’re also built to handle severe weather, including hail, high winds, and extreme temperatures, while maintaining their beautiful, handcrafted appearance.
DaVinci shakes are eco-friendly, made from sustainable materials, and fully recyclable at the end of their long life.
At Chicagoland Group, we proudly install DaVinci Shake Roofs, bringing you the timeless look of cedar with the modern benefits of durability, safety, and easy upkeep.
Contact Chicagoland Group today to learn more and schedule your free consultation!
