12 Roofing Materials to Consider for Your House – The Spruce

Wood roofs are very attractive, but they are also quite expensive and have limitations. They are not particularly long-lived, and they are a poor choice in areas that get lots of moisture or where wildfires are a danger. Still, they are among the most attractive of all roofing materials, which makes them a popular choice for luxury homes.

Although both are made from natural wood, usually cedar or redwood, there is a difference between wood shakes and shingles. Shingles are typically thin, wedge-shaped slabs of wood that are produced by precise sawing. Shakes are produced by splitting and are thicker wedges with a rougher texture.

Shingles typically cost about $4.50 to $9.00 per square foot, installed; shakes are more expensive, with average costs of $6.50 to $11 per square foot, installed. Longevity depends very much on circumstances and maintenance. In relatively dry climates, and wood shingle or shake roof can last 60 years; in damp conditions, you may only get 20 years from the roof.

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12 Roofing Materials to Consider for Your House - The Spruce