Are cedar shake roofs a fire hazard?

Untreated cedar shakes have a Class C fire rating, which is a concern in fire-prone areas. Fire-retardant treated shakes achieve Class A or B ratings. Check local building codes as some areas restrict wood roofing.

How long do cedar shake roofs last?

Well-maintained cedar shake roofs last 30-50 years, compared to 15-30 years for asphalt shingles. Annual maintenance including debris removal and treatment extends cedar shake life significantly.

Do cedar roofs save on energy bills?

Yes, cedar shakes provide about R-6 insulation compared to R-0.44 for asphalt. This natural insulation can reduce heating and cooling costs by 10-15% depending on climate.

Cedar Shake vs Asphalt Shingle wood grain comparison

building materials

Cedar Shake vs Asphalt Shingles: Roofing Comparison (2026)

Prepared by Lumberama's Wood Comparison Team

|Last updated July 2, 2026|Sources & methodology

Cedar shake and asphalt shingles are the two most popular residential roofing materials in different market segments. Cedar shakes offer natural beauty and premium performance, while asphalt shingles provide reliable protection at the most affordable price point. This comparison covers every factor that matters in the roofing decision.

Cedar Shake

Asphalt Shingle

Key Takeaways

Cedar shake and asphalt shingles are the two most popular residential roofing materials in different market segments.
Cedar shakes offer natural beauty and premium performance, while asphalt shingles provide reliable protection at the most affordable price point.
This comparison covers every factor that matters in the roofing decision.
Asphalt shingles are the practical choice for most homeowners.
Cedar shakes are the premium choice that pays back through energy savings and extended lifespan for those who can afford the upfront investment.

Property	Cedar Shake	Asphalt Shingle
Price/Sq Ft Installed	$6-$12	$3-$6
Lifespan	30-50 years	15-30 years
Insulation Value	Excellent - R-6	Poor - R-0.44
Wind Resistance	Good - 80+ mph	Good - 60-130 mph
Fire Rating	Class C (untreated)	Class A
Curb Appeal	Premium	Standard
Maintenance	Annual inspection	Minimal

Cedar Shake

Pros

Outstanding natural insulation, Longest natural roof lifespan, Premium curb appeal, Environmentally sustainable

Cons

2-3x more expensive, Fire risk without treatment, Requires regular maintenance, Moss and algae growth

Asphalt Shingle

Pros

Most affordable roofing, Class A fire rating, Low maintenance, Easy to install and repair

Cons

Shorter lifespan, Poor insulation value, Petroleum-based product, Landfill waste at end of life

Best Use Cases

Choose cedar shakes for premium homes where natural beauty, insulation, and longevity justify the investment. Choose asphalt shingles for budget-conscious projects where reliable protection at the lowest cost is the priority.

Verdict

Asphalt shingles are the practical choice for most homeowners. Cedar shakes are the premium choice that pays back through energy savings and extended lifespan for those who can afford the upfront investment.