Cedar Roofing Product Guide

Cedar roofing lends a rustic or tailored effect to exteriors, depending on whether or not you choose shingles or shakes. And with a tonal range that includes amber, to golden, to brown, cedar roofing is a singular style in roofing that is unmatched by any other roofing material.  

Cedar shingles shakes, and hip & ridge units have been enduring choices for exterior coverings for residences and commercial properties all over the world.  The look of cedar evokes a certain casual atmosphere, while at the same time meeting all of the practical benefits expected of a long-lasting roof. 

Benefits of Cedar Roofing

  • Cedar offers two natural, timeless looks – shingles and shakes.
  • Cedar is naturally resistant to moisture, UV rays, and insect damage
  • Cedar is very wind resistant.
  • Cedar is a natural insulator, keeping warmth in winter months, and keeping properties cooler during the summer.
  • Cedar is less susceptible to moss growth when compared with many other roofing materials
  • Cedar can be factory treated to be fire-resistant, fungus-resistant, and can be supplemented to be more moss and insect resistant as well
  • Cedar is adaptable to every climate
  • The standards of cedar roofing are overseen by the Cedar Shingle and Shake Bureau for customer reference and industry best practices

Cedar Shingles, Shakes, and Hip & Ridge Units

A choice in look for cedar roofing to be considered are cedar shingles and cedar shakes, both stylish looks in roofing, but made by different a process at the mill.  Cedar shingles offer a smooth, tailored look, and cedar shakes present a more rustic, rough-hewn appearance.  Both carry the benefits of red cedar.  Hip & Ridge Units are pre-assembled before shipping, and offer a finishing touch to a cedar roofing project.

Cedar is a robust and unique visual addition to any residential or commercial roofing project.

Quick Cedar Roofing Buying Tips



  • Consider your roofing exposure.  Exposure refers to how much of each shingle or shake will be visible and how much will be covered as it is overlapped.  Local building codes will be the best source for determining minimum exposure
  • Choose a cedar roofing style.  Decide whether or not you want to choose shingles or shakes - a refined look, or a rugged one.
  • Choose a treatment – Kiln dried,  CCA-kiln dried, Class B or C Fire, and more
  • Choose a cut – tapersawn or handsplit.
  • Inspect any excessive damages.  Before installing the roofing, inspect your batch for any excessive damages sustained during shipping.  Should there be any excessive damages beyond the allowable in your order, contact BuildDirect.