If you're currently searching for red cedar roof shingles for sale , you've possibly already realized that selecting a new roof is one of those big-ticket choices that can feel a bit mind-boggling. It isn't simply about keeping the rain off your mind; it's regarding the look, the longevity, and, let's be honest, the curb appeal that makes your own neighbors a little bit jealous. Presently there is just something about the hot, earthy texture associated with real wood that synthetic materials can't quite mimic, simply no matter how really hard they try.
I've always experienced that a cedar roof gives the house a spirit. Whether you're restoring a classic Shawl Cod or wanting to soften the ranges of a modern build, those cedar tones do a lot of heavy lifting. But before you pull the trigger and order some pallets, generally there are a handful of things you should possibly know so you don't end upward with a "deal" that turns directly into a headache the few years down the road.
Why individuals still swear simply by red cedar
You might wonder precisely why, with all the high-tech amalgamated materials out right now there, people are still searching for red cedar roof shingles for sale . The answer is usually a blend of tradition plus some pretty impressive natural science. West Red Cedar is basically nature's overachiever. It's packed with these types of oils and tannins that act because a built-in protection system against rot, decay, and actually those pesky wood-boring insects that love to turn additional types of wooden into a treat.
Beyond simply staying upright, cedar is an excellent insulator. Mainly because wood is full of tiny air pockets, it's actually way better in keeping your home great in the summertime and warm within the winter compared to asphalt or metallic. It's like placing a high-quality puffer jacket on your own home. Plus, if you're someone who cares about the globe, cedar is really an alternative resource. The majority of the things you'll find for sale these days arrives from managed forests where they're growing and maintaining new trees as fast as they're harvesting all of them.
Understanding exactly what you're actually purchasing
When you start browsing listings for shingles, you'll notice lots of lingo. It can obtain confusing fast. The main thing you need in order to focus on could be the grade of the wood . Not most cedar is made similar, and if you buy the wrong grade for a roof, you're going in order to regret it when the shingles start curling like french fries after one time of year in the sun.
The famous Blue Label
If you need the best of the particular best, you're looking for No. 1 Quality, Blue Label . This is the gold standard for roofing. These shingles are 100% heartwood, 100% clear (meaning no knots), and 100% edge wheat. Edge grain is definitely the secret sauce here—it means the particular wood fibers operate straight up and down, which can make the shingle extremely stable. It won't warp or twist nearly as much as less expensive cuts.
Red and Black Brands
Then you've got your Red Labels (No. 2) and Black Labels (No. 3). These types of are totally fine for things like garden sheds, gazebos, or possibly some ornamental siding on a wall that doesn't get hit by much rain. But for an initial roof? I'd be careful. These types of grades allow for knots and "flat grain, " which usually tends to absorb water and break up over time. When you get a price that looks too good to become genuine for red cedar roof shingles for sale , double-check the label color.
The difference between shingles and shakes
This is a big one that trips people up. Even though we regularly use the terms interchangeably, shingles and shakes are usually actually different critters.
Shingles are sawn to both sides. They have an easy, uniform appearance and also a thinner profile. They're great in case you want a clean, tailored appearance for your home. They lay toned and create a very crisp shadow series.
Shakes , on the particular other hand, are usually split by hand or machine on one side and sawn on the back again. They're thicker, rougher, and much more "rustic. " In case you're going for that cozy cabin or historic new vibe, shakes are usually your friend. Simply keep in mind that shakes are usually usually more expensive since they require even more raw material and also a bit more labor to install.
Exactly what to look for when you're buying
Finding red cedar roof shingles for sale is easier than ever thanks to the internet, but you've still got in order to be considered a savvy shopper. Shipping wood isn't cheap—cedar is light-weight for wood, but a whole roof's worth still weighs a ton.
- Examine the resource: Appear for shingles that are certified with the Cedar Shake & Shingle Bureau (CSSB). They have strict quality control standards, so you know the particular "Blue Label" you're buying actually satisfies the requirements.
- Moisture content material: You would like wood that provides been properly dried out. If the shingles are too "green" (wet), they may shrink unevenly once they're nailed straight down.
- Pack count: Prices are usually quoted by the "square. " A pillow is 100 rectangular feet of roof coverage. Make certain you understand how several bundles make up a square so you can compare prices accurately between different suppliers.
The cost reality check
I actually won't sugarcoat this: cedar isn't the least expensive option on the particular rack. When you're looking at red cedar roof shingles for sale , the in advance cost is definitely increased than your standard architectural asphalt shingles. But you need to look at the particular long game.
A well-maintained cedar roof can last 30, 40, or even fifty years. Asphalt? You're lucky to obtain 20 before this starts looking rough. Plus, cedar provides genuine value in order to your home's resell price. People see a cedar roof and they immediately think "high-end. " It's an investment in your property's equity, not simply a repair costs.
Keeping it pretty: Maintenance matters
Once you've found your shingles and got them installed, you can't just forget about them for 3 decades. Cedar is a natural item, and like a good leather jacket, it requires a little TLC.
The biggest foe of a cedar roof is particles. If leaves and pine needles sit down on the roof, they trap dampness, and moisture network marketing leads to moss plus algae. A fast cleaning every few years—just blowing away from the debris plus maybe a gentle wash—goes a lengthy way. Some people such as to apply a finish to keep that "new wood" appearance, but personally? I actually love the way in which cedar ages. It ultimately turns this beautiful, silvery-grey patina that looks like this belongs on the beach house in Nantucket.
Don't forget the hardware
If you're buying red cedar roof shingles for sale , do yourself the favor and don't skimp on the nails. This is usually a mistake I see way as well often. Cedar has those natural tannins I mentioned earlier, and those tannins react with regular metal. If you utilize cheap nails, they'll corrode, plus you'll end upward with ugly dark streaks running lower your beautiful brand-new roof.
Always go with stainless steel or high-quality hot-dipped galvanized nails. It's a small extra cost that saves you from a massive aesthetic devastation later on.
Finding the correct supplier
You can find cedar shingles at some big-box hardware shops, but honestly, you're often best heading to a specialized lumber yard or perhaps a dedicated roofing provider. The quality seems to be more consistent, and the particular people working generally there actually know the particular difference between the kiln-dried shingle and a pressure-treated 1.
Don't be afraid to ask for samples, either. Most trustworthy places selling red cedar roof shingles for sale will be happy in order to let you visit a few pieces so you can check the feed as well as the color for yourself.
With the end associated with the day, placing a cedar roof on your house is of a love letter to craftsmanship. It will take a little more work to get the right materials along with a little even more effort to continue to keep it looking sharp, however the compensation is a house that looks timeless. So, take your time using the search, check those labels, and get ready to enjoy the best-looking house on the block.