Cedar shake has been around for a long time as a home siding material, but like any feature of a home’s curb appeal, it has gone in and out of style a few times as trends change. Today, cedar shingles are found most often on homes looking to project a rugged but comfy appeal. If you’re wondering exactly what makes cedar shake different from other kinds of wood siding, it’s simple. Unlike solid siding that runs in long horizontal boards, cedar shake siding is made up of small pieces of the wood pressed into a shingle shape, and then hung in rows that overlap in a way that’s similar to roof shingles. Properly maintained, they provide an extra layer of weather protection and insulation. Since they are made of natural materials, they also help add to a home’s rustic appeal, so they are especially popular with people looking to establish that aesthetic.
Installation and Maintenance
Like other forms of wood siding, cedar is prone to drying and aging, and it also needs to be inspected for signs of insects. Unlike other forms of wood siding, though, it is more resistant to weather and less in need of constant repainting and resealing. Natural siding also comes with a predictable maximum life expectancy, so homeowners looking into cedar for its rugged appeal may need to plan for an eventual replacement. As beautiful as cedar shingles are, they do take time and expertise to place correctly, which means it’s a good idea to look into professionals for installation. That saves you time and lets you focus on more important aspects of homeownership.
Make a House Into a Home
While there are a few extra maintenance issues to contend with when you look into natural siding choices like cedar shake, there are also a lot of reasons why it’s so loved by homeowners. Vinyl and aluminum siding choices may last longer without maintenance, but they lack the warmth, rugged appeal, and feeling of coziness that natural construction materials tend to bring with them. Ultimately, your home’s appearance is just as much an emotional decision-making process as it is financial, and many people simply feel more welcomed when they come home to the majestic look of cedar shingles nestled between trees or overlooking a bright, well-maintained lawn.
