ROOFING SPECIALTY SERVICES
Cedar shake is the most naturally beautiful roofing material available. Hand-split from real western red cedar, each shake is unique, creating a roof with warmth, texture, and character that makes your home look like it belongs in the landscape.
When you drive through the older neighborhoods of Western Massachusetts, the craftsman bungalows of Northampton, the shingle-style cottages of Amherst, you notice something. The homes with cedar shake roofs have a quality that is hard to name but impossible to miss. It is warmth. It is character. It is the feeling that the home was built to last.
Cedar shake roofing has a warmth and character that no synthetic material can match. Each hand-split shake is unique, creating a roof with genuine texture and depth that makes your home look like it belongs in the landscape.
Cedar wood is a natural insulator. Studies show cedar shake roofs can reduce energy costs by up to 30% compared to standard asphalt, keeping your home cooler in summer and warmer in winter.
We source our cedar from sustainably managed forests. Cedar is a renewable resource that biodegrades naturally at the end of its life, unlike asphalt shingles which fill landfills.
A cedar shake roof is a premium feature that buyers and appraisers recognize immediately. Homes with cedar roofs consistently command higher prices and sell faster in our market.
| FEATURE | CEDAR SHAKE | STANDARD ASPHALT |
|---|---|---|
| Natural Look | Unmatched warmth and texture | Flat and uniform |
| Lifespan | 30 to 50 years with care | 20 to 30 years |
| Energy Efficiency | Up to 30% better insulation | Standard |
| Eco Friendly | Renewable, biodegradable | Petroleum-based, landfill waste |
| Resale Value | Premium feature, adds value | Standard expectation |
We visit your home, inspect your current roof, and talk through your goals. We explain the difference between hand-split shakes, hand-split and resawn shakes, and tapersawn shakes so you can make an informed decision.
We help you choose the right cedar grade and treatment. Pressure-treated cedar with preservatives significantly extends the lifespan. We also discuss fire-retardant treatments, which are required in some municipalities.
Cedar shake requires specific ventilation and breathable underlayment to prevent moisture buildup and extend the roof's life. We install everything to manufacturer specifications and local code.
Our cedar specialists hand-nail each shake with stainless steel nails, set the proper exposure, and hand-fit every hip, ridge, and valley. Cedar shake installation is an art form, and we take it seriously.
After installation, we apply a preservative treatment and walk you through the simple maintenance routine that will keep your cedar roof looking beautiful for 30 to 50 years.
"I always dreamed of a cedar shake roof. Thrive made it happen within our budget and the result is absolutely stunning. Every time I pull into the driveway I smile. The crew was so respectful of our property and the cleanup was spotless."
Jennifer K.
Wilbraham, MA
"We have an old craftsman bungalow and the cedar shake roof looks like it was always meant to be there. Yuriy was incredibly knowledgeable and patient with all my questions. The installation took four days and they were professional the entire time."
Susan M.
Amherst, MA
"The detail work on the dormers and valleys is exceptional. You can tell these guys actually care about their craft. I have had three neighbors ask for their contact information since the job was finished."
Laura B.
Northampton, MA
With proper installation, quality materials, and periodic maintenance, cedar shake roofs typically last 30 to 50 years. Pressure-treated cedar with preservative applications can reach the higher end of that range.
Cedar shake benefits from periodic cleaning to remove moss and debris, and a preservative treatment every 5 to 7 years. We provide a full care guide after installation and offer maintenance services.
Untreated cedar is combustible. We use fire-retardant treated cedar that meets Class B or Class C fire ratings. In some municipalities, Class A fire-retardant treatment is required and available.
In most cases, we recommend a full tear-off to inspect the deck and ensure proper ventilation. Cedar shake needs to breathe, and installing over old material can trap moisture and shorten its life.
Cedar shake roofing typically ranges from $8 to $16 per square foot installed, depending on grade, treatment, and roof complexity. We provide detailed written estimates after your free consultation.
Call or text us for a free consultation. We will walk your roof, explain your options, and give you an honest estimate, no pressure, no obligation.