Cedar Shake
Cedar Shake Roofing in the Twin Cities
Premium character. Serious performance. Honest evaluation first.
Cedar shake is one of the most visually distinctive roofing systems available — and one that performs well in Minnesota's climate when installed and maintained correctly. It is also a significant investment. We make sure it makes sense before we recommend it.
- 25–40 year lifespan with proper maintenance
- Natural insulation — reduces heating & cooling costs
- Premium aesthetic that gains character over time
- Naturally resistant to insects and decay
Get Your Fast, Free & Honest Estimate
Our Approach
Cedar Shake vs. Cedar Shingles
Cedar shakes are hand-split or sawn-split — thicker, rougher, more textured. They create the layered, rustic look most people associate with cedar roofing.
Cedar shingles are machine-cut to a uniform thickness with a smoother surface — more refined and tailored, often used on historic homes. For most Twin Cities homeowners pursuing the classic cedar look, hand-split shakes are the more common choice.
Why It Works
Why Cedar Shake Works in Minnesota
Natural Insulation
Cedar's cellular structure provides genuine thermal insulation — helping homes stay cooler in summer and retain heat in winter.
Wind and Impact Resistance
The interlocking installation and material density provide solid performance in the summer storm conditions common across the metro.
Natural Preservatives
Western red cedar contains natural oils that resist rot, insects, and moisture — inherent to the material, not a treatment.
Aesthetic Fit
Cedar improves in appearance as it weathers. The silver-grey patina is a design asset in the wooded, established neighborhoods of the western Twin Cities suburbs.
Honest Considerations
What Cedar Shake Requires
Cedar shake is not a low-maintenance option. Before recommending it, we want you to understand what protecting the investment looks like.
Maintenance Schedule
Inspection and cleaning every 3–5 years to prevent moss, algae, and debris buildup. A breathable water-repellent treatment every 5–7 years. Never fully seal cedar — it needs to breathe.
Ventilation Requirements
Cedar requires a breathable underlayment and, in most applications, spaced sheathing to allow airflow beneath the shakes. Without it, moisture traps against the wood and dramatically shortens roof life.
Not the Right Fit for Every Home
Homes with heavy shade, significant moss exposure, or limited maintenance access may not be the best candidates. We'll tell you that honestly rather than recommending cedar regardless.
Benefits
Benefits of Cedar Shake Roofing
- 25–40 year lifespan with proper maintenance
- Natural thermal insulation reduces energy costs
- Distinctive premium aesthetic that gains character
- Natural resistance to insects and decay
- Biodegradable and renewable — a sustainable choice
- Strong curb appeal and resale value on the right home
Investment
Cedar Shake Roofing Cost in the Twin Cities
Cedar shake is one of the more expensive residential systems. Typical Minnesota 2025–2026 pricing, installed:
- Cedar Shakes$8–$16 / sq ft
- Cedar Shingles$6–$10 / sq ft
For a typical Twin Cities home, a full cedar shake installation runs $20,000–$45,000+ depending on size, complexity, and the grade of cedar selected. That cost needs to be weighed against lifespan, aesthetic value, and your willingness to maintain the roof over time.
Common Questions
FAQs
Schedule Your Honest Evaluation
Get a clear answer on what your roof actually needs. No pressure. No default recommendation. Just the information you need to make the right call.