Shake-style roofing has changed since its initial use in colonial America. Wood was in abundance and it was only practical to use it for roofs of the period. Defining a traditional shake is fairly straightforward as it is a wooden shingle that is made from a split log. It is actually a board on which a wooden shingle is attached. Many times the term simply means wooden shingles, but shingles are created with a saw while shakes are split. When thinking of shake-style roofing today, the concept of cutting shingles rather than splitting them applies. So, what comprises shake-style roofing today?
What is Shake-style Roofing?
Shake-style roofing consists of shingles that are made of asphalt and fiberglass. They are fashioned as shake-style shingles and have the same character and appeal as their hand-split counterparts. One major difference is modern-day shakes are considerably less expensive, plus they are easier to maintain.
Shake-Style Roofing Differences
Style, class, protection and stability characterize shake-style roofing. Though asphalt shakes don’t consist of wood, they have the same look as a wooden shake and they are often mistaken for the real thing. Their asphalt content is able to withstand and resist fire, wind, snow and ice. Asphalt shakes are considerably thicker as well, particularly in comparison to other asphalt shingles. They are gaining more use because of their looks and durability, and many homeowners today are choosing shake-style shingles as replacements for older roofing models.
Maintenance Free
Asphalt replica shakes are easy to maintain in comparison to a traditional wooden shake. They are considered maintenance-free with no rotting, decay or deterioration to deal with, and the asphalt has a base mat of fiberglass with a waterproof finish that is capped with granules. The shakes are protected from the harmful rays of the sun, are lightweight, resistant to fading, fire resistant (Class A ), backed by a warranty and have Energy Star certification. More upscale asphalt shakes are even resistant to algae for a period of time.
Availability
Asphalt shakes are also available in a varying array of colors that integrate well with any type of trim, siding, stucco or other finishes, plus their definitive design, texture and shade are comparable to shakes that are made from cedar. They are also easily combined and integrated to fashion a custom style roof that brings increased depth as well as distinctive curb appeal.
Genuine Wooden Shakes
Though wooden shakes are pleasing to look at and have a rustic yet classic style, and are durable and energy efficient as well as environmentally friendly, they require consistent maintenance. They can show deterioration and fading because of sun exposure. Moisture can play havoc with them, as rot, mold, mildew and fungal growth can cause major damage. Without care, splitting and curling can occur, and the roof system itself can be jeopardized.
The biggest risk with wooden shakes is fire. Insurance coverage will be high, especially if a roof is in an area of wildfire risk, and even then, insurance may not be available for such areas. An even greater deterrent or stumbling block is the cost, as shake-style roofing can be expensive due to the labor and craftsmanship involved.
Whether you choose to go with shake-style roofing that is either genuine wood or an asphalt counterpart, and you have questions concerning either type of roofing material, complete the online contact form and a roofing expert will get back to you with the answers you need to make an informed decision.
