Gable End Cedar Shakes: Everything You Need to Know

Gable end cedar shakes are a popular choice for exterior cladding due to their natural beauty and durability. They can last for up to 30 years or more with proper maintenance.

Cedar shakes are made from western red cedar, a softwood that is resistant to rot, decay, and insect damage. This makes them an excellent option for areas prone to moisture.

The gable end of a house is the triangular section above the roof's peak, and cedar shakes are often used to cover this area. They can be installed in a variety of patterns, including a traditional staggered pattern.

A typical gable end cedar shake installation requires a minimum of 2-3 rows of shakes to ensure proper coverage and water runoff.

Western Red Cedar is the most popular species of wood used for shakes and shingles, with a rich red-brown color throughout and a timeless appearance.

Its versatility makes it suitable for various applications, including roofing, siding, and decorative gable ends.

Hand-split shakes, also known as "re-sawn", are a great option for a rustic appearance, while taper-sawn shakes offer a more tailored look.

No. 3 (Black label) Western Red Cedar shakes are often used as an undercourse for roofing.

Western Red Cedar shingles, on the other hand, are known for their uniform appearance and are excellent for sidewalls or roofs.

The Cedar Shake and Shingle Bureau's standards for Western Red Cedar shingles include No. 1 (Blue label), which are 100% vertical grain and made of heartwood.

No. 2 (Red label) shingles have some flat grain, showcasing the texture of the cedar.

The terms "5x", "Perfection", and "Royal" refer to the length and thickness of the shingle, not the grade.

Green shingles are sold in contractor bundles, which are 4 bundles per 100 square feet at the standard exposure.

Western Red Cedar is the most popular species used for shakes and shingles, offering a rich red-brown color throughout with a timeless appearance.

This species is ideal for exterior applications, providing a durable and long-lasting finish. Its rich color also helps to hide any minor imperfections.

Eastern White Cedar, on the other hand, is wonderful for sidewall installation, featuring a flat grain and a bright, clean appearance often seen in coastal homes.

Its flat grain makes it a great choice for vertical surfaces, where a smooth finish is desired. You might notice a slight difference in appearance compared to Western Red Cedar.

Alaskan Yellow Cedar is a dense wood known for its durability, offering a clean and consistent appearance that naturally ages to a beautiful silver over time.

This species is perfect for homeowners who want a low-maintenance option that will require minimal upkeep. Its durability also makes it a great choice for high-traffic areas.

Cedar shakes come in a variety of species, each with its own unique characteristics.

Western Red Cedar is the most popular choice for shakes and shingles, offering a rich red-brown color.

Eastern White Cedar has a flat grain and a bright, clean appearance, making it perfect for sidewall installation.

If you're considering cedar shakes for your roofing project, you'll want to think about the size options available.

Cedar shakes come in three standard sizes: 24”, 18”, and custom sizes to fit your specific needs.

For the thickness of the shakes, you've got three options to choose from: Medium, Heavy, and Jumbo.

When ordering cedar shakes, you'll need to consider the quantity you'll need for the job. Shakes are usually sold by the bundle.

To determine the number of bundles you'll need, you'll need to calculate the square footage of the area you're covering. Typically, 5 bundles are required for every 100 square feet of coverage.

Roof slope and shake size can affect the number of bundles you'll need, so be sure to check the specific recommendations for your project. For example, 24” shakes have a 10” exposure, while 18” shakes have a 7.5” exposure.

When selecting cedar shakes, don't forget to consider the necessary accessories for a complete installation.

A cedar breather may be required or desirable for high-humidity applications, ensuring a healthy and long-lasting roof.

Circular-sawn shingles tend to have a longer lifespan than band-sawn shingles, so it's worth noting the manufacturing technique used.

All shingles are edge trimmed, regardless of the manufacturing process, but this doesn't affect the lifespan of the shingle itself.

For a more uniform installation, consider using R&R shingles, which can reduce extra work for the installer.

Western Red Cedar (green) shingles can be purchased in various quantities, including by the bundle and in full-pallet lots.