Add authentic character to your Ottawa home. Real cedar shakes bring warmth, craftsmanship, and lasting beauty. Perfect for heritage and traditional properties.
Authentic wood roofing with unique character
Cedar shakes are hand-split (or sawn) shingles made from premium western red cedar. Unlike manufactured asphalt shingles, each cedar shake is a natural product with unique grain patterns. Shakes are thicker and more irregular than shingles, creating distinctive character and texture.
Premium options for authentic character
| Grade | Appearance | Durability | Cost | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Grade A/Premium | Clear, uniform | 35-40 years | $$$ | High-end homes, visible sides |
| Grade B/Standard | Some grain variation | 30-35 years | $$ | Most residential applications |
| Hand-Split | Artisan-quality | 35-40+ years | $$$$ | Premium estates, showcase homes |
Understanding the complete picture
Investment in timeless beauty
30-40+ years with Grade A premium shakes and proper maintenance. Some shakes can last 50+ years with excellent care.
| Home Size | Cost Range | Per Sq Ft | Includes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Small (1,500 sq ft) | $12,000-$18,000 | $8-$12 | Grade B standard cedar |
| Medium (2,000 sq ft) | $18,000-$28,000 | $9-$14 | Grade A or mixed grade |
| Large (2,500+ sq ft) | $25,000-$40,000+ | $10-$16 | Premium or hand-split cedar |
Keeping your cedar beautiful and functional
Optional treatments extend cedar life and maintain appearance:
Winter challenges and solutions
Cedar shakes require more maintenance in Ottawa than in drier climates. We recommend:
Craftsmanship from start to finish
Timeline: Cedar roof installation typically takes 3-7 days depending on roof size and complexity.
Cedar roofing questions answered
Get Your Free Cedar Roofing Estimate. We specialize in premium cedar installations for Ottawa's heritage and character homes.