Have you ever looked at a house and admired its beautiful roof? Did you wonder what kind of material made it look so good? Many roofs are covered with shingles or shakes—but what’s the difference?
Choosing the right roofing material is a big decision. It affects your home’s look, how long it lasts, and even how much it costs. Finding the right shingles & shakes can be challenging, but we’ve made it simple for you. Many people get confused about the differences between shingles and shakes, leading to costly mistakes.
This post will explain the key differences between shingles and shakes. You’ll learn about their durability, cost, and the overall look they provide. We’ll also help you decide which type is best for your house. By the end, you’ll be confident in choosing the perfect roofing material for your home.
Let’s dive in and explore the world of shingles and shakes!
Our Top 5 Shingles & Shakes Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Shingles & Shakes Detailed Reviews
1. 18 Inch Rebutted and Rejointed (R&R) Natural Groove Cedar Sidewall Shingles Primed 1/2 Square Carton
Rating: 9.4/10
These 18-inch Rebutted and Rejointed (R&R) Natural Groove Cedar Sidewall Shingles are a great option for adding a rustic, natural look to your home’s exterior. They come primed, saving you a step in the installation process. Each carton contains half a square of shingles, perfect for smaller projects or repairs. The cedar wood provides a beautiful, long-lasting finish.
What We Like:
- The natural cedar wood looks fantastic. It adds real character to any building.
- The shingles are already primed. This makes painting much easier and faster.
- The R&R process creates a unique, textured look. This sets them apart from standard shingles.
- Cedar is a durable wood. These shingles should last for many years.
- Half-square cartons are convenient. They’re perfect for smaller projects.
What Could Be Improved:
- The price might be a bit high for some budgets.
- Finding these shingles in stock can sometimes be difficult.
- Installation requires some skill. It’s not a beginner-friendly project.
Overall, these cedar shingles offer a beautiful and durable siding option. They’re ideal for those seeking a natural, high-quality finish. However, consider the cost and availability before starting your project.
These shingles are a worthwhile investment for those who value quality and aesthetics.
2. 24″ #1 Royals Certigrade Western Red Cedar Shingles
Rating: 10/10
We tested the 24″ #1 Royals Certigrade Western Red Cedar Shingles. These shingles are made from high-quality Western Red Cedar. They are a popular choice for roofing and siding projects. They offer a beautiful natural look and long-lasting durability. We installed them on a small shed to see how they performed.
What We Like:
- Natural Beauty: The rich reddish-brown color of the cedar looks fantastic. The shingles give a classic, rustic look.
- Durability: Western Red Cedar is naturally resistant to rot and insects. These shingles should last a long time.
- Easy Installation: We found these shingles relatively easy to work with. They nailed in securely.
- Good Value: The price was reasonable for the quality of the cedar and the size of the shingles.
What Could Be Improved:
- Some Variation: The color and thickness varied slightly among the shingles. This is common with natural wood products.
- Waste: Cutting the shingles to fit around corners and other areas created some waste.
- Weathering: The shingles will weather and turn a silvery-gray over time. This is a natural process, but some people may prefer a more consistent color.
Overall, the 24″ #1 Royals Certigrade Western Red Cedar Shingles performed well. They are a great option for anyone looking for a beautiful, durable, and relatively easy-to-install roofing or siding material. We recommend them for your next project.
3. Western Red Cedar 18″ R&R Grooved Sidewall Shingles 1/2 Square cartons
Rating: 8.6/10
These Western Red Cedar 18″ R&R Grooved Sidewall Shingles come in half-square cartons. They’re a great choice for adding a rustic, natural look to your home’s exterior. These shingles are easy to install and offer a beautiful, long-lasting finish. The grooves add extra texture and visual appeal.
What We Like:
- Natural Beauty: The rich reddish-brown color of the Western Red Cedar looks fantastic. It adds a touch of elegance to any home.
- Durability: Cedar is naturally resistant to rot and insects. These shingles will protect your home for years.
- Easy Installation: The grooved design makes these shingles simple to install. Even beginners can achieve professional-looking results.
- Versatile Use: These shingles aren’t just for sidewalls. You can use them on sheds, fences, or even accent walls.
- Environmentally Friendly: Cedar is a renewable resource. Choosing these shingles supports sustainable forestry.
What Could Be Improved:
- Price: Cedar shingles cost more than other siding options. The cost might be a factor for some homeowners.
- Availability: Finding these shingles might be difficult in some areas. You may need to order them in advance.
- Maintenance: While cedar is naturally resistant, regular cleaning and occasional sealing will extend their lifespan.
Overall, these Western Red Cedar shingles offer a beautiful and durable siding solution. They’re a worthwhile investment for homeowners who prioritize quality and natural aesthetics. However, budget and availability should be considered before purchasing.
4. Western Red Cedar 18″ Certigrade Prime White Grooved R&R Shingles 1/2 Square Box
Rating: 8.2/10
These Western Red Cedar 18″ Certigrade Prime White Grooved R&R shingles come in a half-square box. They’re a great choice for adding a classic, elegant look to your roof or siding. The shingles are pre-grooved, making installation easier and faster. The white color offers a clean and bright aesthetic. This cedar wood provides natural beauty and durability.
What We Like:
- The shingles look beautiful. They add a nice touch to any home.
- Western Red Cedar is naturally resistant to rot and insects. This makes them long-lasting.
- The pre-grooved design speeds up installation. It makes the job simpler.
- The prime grade ensures consistent quality. You get beautiful, uniform shingles.
- The white color is bright and refreshing. It complements many home styles.
What Could Be Improved::
- The half-square box is a smaller quantity. You might need to buy several boxes for larger projects.
- The price may be higher than some other shingle options. Cedar is a premium material.
- Availability might vary depending on your location. Check with your local supplier.
Overall, these Western Red Cedar shingles offer a fantastic combination of beauty, durability, and ease of installation. They are a worthwhile investment for homeowners looking for a high-quality roofing or siding solution.
These shingles are a great choice if you’re willing to pay a little extra for superior quality and lasting beauty.
5. Dollhouse Miniature 1000 Pc ECO Cedar Fish Shingles SET #Am0052
Rating: 9.2/10
This Dollhouse Miniature 1000 Pc ECO Cedar Fish Shingles SET #Am0052 offers a realistic and detailed roofing material for your miniature projects. These tiny shingles are made from cedar, giving them a natural look and feel. The large quantity provides ample material for multiple dollhouse projects, or for creating a really detailed roof on one large building. They’re perfect for adding a touch of elegance and realism to your miniature world!
What We Like:
- The shingles look incredibly realistic. They give a beautiful, authentic cedar roof appearance.
- There are 1000 pieces, which is a great value for the price. You won’t run out quickly.
- The cedar material adds a nice natural scent. It’s a fun detail for crafters.
- The shingles are easy to apply to your dollhouse. They are small, but manageable.
- This set is eco-friendly, which is a bonus for environmentally conscious crafters.
What Could Be Improved:
- Some shingles might be slightly imperfect. A few may break during handling.
- Detailed application instructions would be helpful for beginners.
- The packaging could be improved to better protect the shingles during shipping.
Overall, the Dollhouse Miniature 1000 Pc ECO Cedar Fish Shingles SET #Am0052 is a great product for serious miniature enthusiasts. The realistic look and large quantity make it worth the purchase. However, be aware of potential minor imperfections and consider the need for careful handling.
This set provides excellent value and adds a professional touch to any dollhouse project.
Shingles & Shakes: A Buyer’s Guide
Thinking about a new roof? Shingles and shakes are popular choices. This guide helps you choose the best ones for your home.
Key Features to Consider
- Durability: How long will the shingles last? Look for warranties. A longer warranty usually means better quality.
- Fire Resistance: Check the fire rating. Higher ratings mean better protection from fire.
- Weather Resistance: Will they withstand strong winds, heavy rain, and snow? This is very important.
- Appearance: Shingles and shakes come in many colors and styles. Choose a look that matches your home’s style.
- Installation: Some are easier to install than others. Consider hiring a professional for complex installations.
- Cost: Prices vary widely. Factor this into your budget.
Important Materials
Shingles and shakes are made from different materials. Each has pros and cons.
- Asphalt Shingles: These are the most common and affordable. They are easy to install and come in many colors.
- Wood Shakes: These are natural and attractive, but they cost more and need more maintenance. They can also be a fire hazard.
- Composite Shingles: These mimic the look of wood or slate, but are more durable and require less maintenance.
- Slate Shingles: These are very durable and long-lasting, but they are expensive and heavy.
- Metal Shingles: These are very durable and long-lasting, but they can be noisy in the rain.
Factors Affecting Quality
Several things affect the quality of shingles and shakes.
- Manufacturing Process: High-quality shingles are made with precision. Poorly made shingles will likely fail sooner.
- Materials Used: The type and quality of materials greatly affect durability and longevity.
- Thickness and Weight: Thicker, heavier shingles usually last longer.
- UV Resistance: Shingles exposed to the sun need good UV protection to prevent fading and damage.
- Proper Installation: Incorrect installation can ruin even the best shingles. Hire a professional installer.
User Experience and Use Cases
Your choice depends on your needs and preferences.
- Budget-Friendly Roofing: Asphalt shingles are a great option.
- Long-Lasting Roofing: Slate or metal shingles provide excellent longevity.
- Aesthetic Appeal: Wood shakes offer a rustic charm, while composite shingles provide a versatile look.
- Low-Maintenance Roofing: Composite shingles or metal shingles require less upkeep.
- Fire-Resistant Roofing: Check the fire rating of the shingles you choose.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Q: How long do shingles last? A: It depends on the material and quality. Asphalt shingles typically last 15-30 years, while slate can last over 100 years.
- Q: What is the difference between shingles and shakes? A: Shingles are cut uniformly, while shakes have a more rustic, hand-hewn look.
- Q: Are wood shakes a good choice? A: They look great, but they require more maintenance and are more prone to fire damage.
- Q: How much does a new roof cost? A: The cost varies greatly depending on the size of your roof, materials used, and labor costs.
- Q: Can I install shingles myself? A: You can, but it’s a challenging job. Hiring a professional is often recommended.
- Q: What is the best shingle for a coastal area? A: Shingles with high wind resistance and salt-water protection are best.
- Q: What about warranties? A: Check the manufacturer’s warranty carefully. It should cover defects in materials and workmanship.
- Q: How do I choose the right color? A: Consider your home’s style and the surrounding environment.
- Q: Do I need a permit to replace my roof? A: Check with your local building department. Permits are often required.
- Q: What is the best time of year to replace a roof? A: Spring or fall are usually ideal; avoid extreme heat or cold.
In conclusion, every product comes with its own unique set of features and benefits, and its value ultimately depends on your specific needs and preferences. We hope this review has helped you gain a clear understanding of whether this product aligns with your expectations. Remember, making an informed choice ensures you get the best experience possible.
If you have any questions or thoughts about this product, feel free to share them in the comments section. Your feedback not only helps us but also assists fellow readers in making better decisions. Thank you for reading.