Wood Shingles
Wood Shingles
- Wood shingles** are a traditional roofing material valued for their natural appearance, sustainability, and ability to complement historic and architectural-style buildings. Made from split or sawn wood, these shingles have been used for centuries and remain popular in select residential and specialty applications.
Wood shingles are most commonly installed on steep-slope roofs and are part of many classic Residential Roofing systems.
What Are Wood Shingles?
Wood shingles are thin, tapered pieces of natural wood installed in overlapping rows to create a water-shedding roof surface. They differ from wood shakes, which are typically thicker and more rustic in appearance.
Proper installation and maintenance are critical to preventing moisture intrusion and extending service life.
Types of Wood Shingles
Wood shingles are categorized by wood species and manufacturing method.
Cedar Wood Shingles
- Most common and preferred option
- Naturally resistant to insects and rot
- Lightweight and stable
Redwood Shingles
- Naturally durable and moisture-resistant
- Less commonly available
- Premium appearance
Pine and Other Softwoods
- Less durable and shorter lifespan
- Generally lower cost
- Less common in modern construction
Wood Shingles vs. Wood Shakes
Although often confused, there are key differences:
- Wood shingles are machine-sawn for a smooth, uniform appearance
- Wood shakes are hand-split, thicker, and more rustic
- Shingles provide a cleaner architectural look
- Shakes offer deeper texture and shadow lines
Both systems require adequate ventilation and drainage to perform well.
Advantages of Wood Shingles
- Natural, attractive appearance
- Renewable and biodegradable material
- Lightweight compared to tile or slate
- Good insulation properties when properly ventilated
Wood shingles can support energy performance goals when combined with Roof Ventilation and Roof Insulation strategies.
Disadvantages and Considerations
- Higher maintenance requirements
- Susceptible to fire without treatment
- Vulnerable to moisture-related issues if improperly installed
- Limited acceptance in some fire-prone regions
Fire-retardant treatments and local building codes should always be considered.
Installation and Underlayment
Wood shingles are installed over solid decking with proper underlayment and spacing to allow for expansion and drying. Stainless steel or corrosion-resistant fasteners are required to prevent staining and premature failure.
Correct flashing details are essential to prevent leaks.
Maintenance and Inspection
Regular maintenance helps extend the life of wood shingle roofs:
- Remove debris and moss growth
- Replace damaged or warped shingles
- Inspect flashing and penetrations
- Ensure proper attic ventilation
Maintenance practices are outlined in Roof Inspection and Maintenance.
Lifespan of Wood Shingles
Typical lifespan varies based on climate and maintenance:
- Cedar shingles: 30–40 years
- Redwood shingles: 40+ years
- Untreated softwood shingles: 20–30 years
Proper care and favorable environmental conditions significantly impact longevity.
Common Uses of Wood Shingles
Wood shingles are commonly used on:
- Historic homes
- Cottages and cabins
- Coastal and architectural residences
- Specialty residential projects
