Wood Roof? 7 Things to Know Before Installing a Cedar Shake Roof

A wood roof brings a warmth and character few other materials match, but it also comes with considerations many homeowners overlook until after installation. If you are weighing a wood roof for your next project, understanding how cedar shake performs in a mountain climate can save you from costly surprises down the road. Homeowners exploring this option often start by comparing it against other options through a roofing service built around the specific needs of Montana homes, which helps clarify whether cedar shake is the right fit before committing. This guide covers what to know before you decide.

In this guide, you will learn:

• Why cedar shake continues to appeal to homeowners despite newer materials
• Seven key things to know before installing a cedar shake roof
• Ways to protect a wood roof once it is installed
• How cedar shake compares to other common roofing materials

Why a Wood Shingle Roof Still Appeals to Homeowners

Cedar shake has been a trusted roofing material for generations, and it continues to hold its own against modern alternatives for good reason. Whether installed as a traditional wood shingle roof or as thicker hand split shakes, cedar remains a favorite among homeowners who want a natural look with proven performance.

• Natural insulation: Wood has better natural insulating properties than asphalt or metal, which can help regulate indoor temperatures.
• Distinctive curb appeal: Cedar shake offers a rustic, textured look that many homeowners feel complements mountain and rural architecture.
• Durability when maintained: A well maintained cedar shake roof can last several decades, rivaling many other premium materials.
• Natural weather resistance: Cedar contains natural oils that offer some resistance to insects and decay compared to other wood types.
• Environmental appeal: As a renewable resource, cedar shake appeals to homeowners looking for a more sustainable roofing option.

Homeowners in Bigfork and surrounding areas are often drawn to cedar shake for its ability to blend naturally with the surrounding landscape, especially on homes with a rustic or mountain style design.

7 Things to Know Before Installing a Cedar Shake Roof

Before committing to a wood roof, there are several important factors that affect performance, cost, and long term satisfaction. Here is what every homeowner should understand first.

1. Wood Shingles Require More Maintenance Than Asphalt or Metal

Unlike asphalt shingles or metal panels, wood shingles need regular attention to stay in good condition. Skipping maintenance can shorten the lifespan of a wood shingle roof considerably.

• Periodic cleaning prevents moss and algae buildup
• Occasional treatments help maintain natural water resistance
• Damaged or split shakes should be replaced promptly to prevent leaks

2. Fire Resistance Varies by Treatment

Untreated cedar shake carries a higher fire risk than many other roofing materials, but treated products can achieve a Class A fire rating. This distinction matters significantly for homeowners in wildfire prone regions.

• Fire retardant treated shakes meet stricter building codes in many areas
• Some insurance providers require treated cedar for coverage eligibility
• Local fire codes in the area may influence which products are permitted

3. Installation Requires Specialized Experience

Cedar shake installation is more labor intensive than asphalt shingles and requires installers familiar with proper spacing, layering, and ventilation techniques. Poor installation can lead to premature rot or warping.

• Proper spacing between shakes allows for natural expansion and contraction
• Underlayment choices affect moisture control significantly
• Experienced installers know how to handle valleys, ridges, and flashing correctly

4. Climate Plays a Major Role in Longevity

Cedar shake performs differently depending on regional weather patterns. Homes near Bigfork and surrounding areas experience heavy snow, seasonal moisture, and temperature swings that all affect how the wood ages over time.

• Excess moisture without proper ventilation accelerates rot
• Freeze thaw cycles can stress shakes that are not properly maintained
• Adequate roof pitch helps shed snow and reduce prolonged moisture exposure

5. Cost Is Higher Than Many Alternatives

Cedar shake generally costs more upfront than asphalt shingles, and ongoing maintenance adds to the total cost of ownership over time. Homeowners should weigh this against the aesthetic and insulating benefits.

• Material costs are typically higher due to the labor involved in production
• Installation labor costs more due to the specialized skill required
• Long term maintenance costs should be factored into the overall budget

6. Ventilation Is Critical to Prevent Rot

Proper attic and roof ventilation prevents moisture from becoming trapped beneath the shakes, which is one of the leading causes of premature failure. Without adequate airflow, even high quality cedar can deteriorate quickly.

• Ridge and soffit vents work together to promote consistent airflow
• Poor ventilation traps humidity that leads to fungal growth
• Ventilation needs vary based on roof design and local climate conditions

7. Insurance and Building Codes May Affect Your Options

Some insurance companies charge higher premiums for wood roofing due to fire risk, and certain municipalities restrict or regulate cedar shake installation. It is worth checking local requirements before finalizing your decision.

• Ask your insurance provider about premium differences before committing
• Confirm any regional building code restrictions with local authorities
• Fire treated products may qualify for different insurance terms

Protecting Your Wood Shingle Roof for the Long Term

Once a cedar shake roof is installed, ongoing care determines how well it performs over the years. A few consistent habits can meaningfully extend its usable life.

Schedule Routine Inspections

Regular inspections catch small issues, such as curling or splitting shakes, before they lead to leaks. This is especially valuable for homeowners near Bigfork and surrounding areas where seasonal moisture can accelerate wear if left unaddressed.

• Check for discoloration or dark spots that indicate moisture retention
• Look for shakes that have curled, cracked, or shifted out of place
• Inspect flashing around chimneys and vents for signs of separation

Keep the Roof Clear of Debris

Leaves, needles, and branches trap moisture against the wood, which speeds up decay. Clearing debris regularly helps the roof dry properly after rain or snow.

• Remove debris from valleys and low points where water tends to collect
• Trim overhanging branches to reduce debris buildup and shade related moisture
• Clean gutters to prevent water from backing up under the shakes

Apply Protective Treatments as Needed

Periodic treatments help cedar retain its natural resistance to moisture, insects, and UV damage. Reapplying these treatments on a regular schedule is one of the most effective ways to extend the roof’s lifespan.

• Water repellent treatments help shed moisture before it soaks into the wood
• Fungicide treatments reduce the risk of moss, algae, and mildew growth
• Most manufacturers recommend reapplying treatments every few years depending on climate exposure

Homeowners who stay consistent with these treatments often see a noticeably longer service life compared to those who let maintenance lapse for several seasons at a time.

Wood Shingle Roof Versus Other Roofing Materials

Comparing a wood shingle roof to other common roofing materials helps put its costs and benefits into perspective for homeowners weighing their options.

Material	Typical Lifespan	Maintenance Level	Relative Cost
Asphalt shingles	15 to 30 years	Moderate	Low
Cedar shake	20 to 40 years	High	Moderate to High
Metal roofing	40 to 70 years	Low	Moderate to High
Clay tile	50 to 100 years	Moderate	High

• 
  Aesthetic value: Cedar shake offers a natural, textured appearance that many homeowners feel other materials cannot fully replicate.
• Maintenance commitment: Cedar requires significantly more ongoing care than metal or asphalt to reach its full potential lifespan.
• Fire considerations: Treated cedar can meet strict fire codes, but untreated wood carries more risk than metal or tile.
• Long term value: Homeowners who commit to regular maintenance often find cedar shake holds up well and retains strong curb appeal for decades.

Choosing between cedar shake and other roofing materials often comes down to how much ongoing maintenance a homeowner is willing to commit to. Those drawn to the natural look of wood should go in with a clear understanding of the upkeep involved, while those seeking a lower maintenance option may want to weigh metal or asphalt more heavily.

Climate should also weigh heavily into the decision. Homeowners in Bigfork and surrounding areas dealing with heavy snowfall and shifting seasonal moisture may find that materials requiring less upkeep hold up more predictably over time, while those committed to the character of a wood roof can still achieve strong results with a disciplined maintenance routine.

Making the Right Choice for Your Home

A wood roof can be a beautiful and lasting choice when installed correctly and maintained consistently, but it is not the right fit for every homeowner or every home. Weighing the maintenance commitment, cost, and local climate considerations up front helps ensure the decision holds up well over time.

If you are considering cedar shake or want to compare it against other roofing materials before making a decision, our team can walk you through the pros and cons based on your specific home and location. Montana Roofing has helped homeowners throughout the region choose and maintain roofing systems that fit both their style and their climate. Reach out and contact us today to talk through your options and get honest guidance on what will work best for your home.