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Wood Shake Roof Installation in Raleigh, NC

Authentic hand-split character. Natural wood shakes bring timeless rustic beauty and proven durability to homes across North Carolina.

48+
Years Experience
5.0
Google Rating
A+
BBB Rating
100%
Satisfaction

Why Choose Wood Shake Roofing?

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Authentic Character

Hand-split texture creates a one-of-a-kind roof with natural variations no synthetic can match.

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Superior Thickness

3/4" to 1" thick shakes provide exceptional weather protection and impact resistance.

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Natural Insulation

Wood's natural R-value helps regulate indoor temperatures and reduce energy costs.

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Wind Resistant

Thick, heavy shakes resist wind uplift better than thinner roofing materials.

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30-50 Year Lifespan

Properly maintained wood shakes outlast asphalt shingles by decades.

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Eco-Friendly

Renewable, biodegradable material with minimal environmental impact.

Wood Shakes vs. Wood Shingles

FeatureWood ShakesWood Shingles
ProductionHand-splitMachine-cut (sawn)
Thickness3/4" - 1"3/8" - 1/2"
AppearanceRustic, texturedSmooth, uniform
Lifespan30-50 years25-40 years
Weather ProtectionSuperiorGood
CostHigherLower
Best ForRustic/traditional homesCape Cod/cottage style

Wood Shake Roofing Excellence in Raleigh

Wood shake roofing has been protecting American homes for centuries, and its timeless appeal continues to attract homeowners who appreciate authentic craftsmanship. At Faircloth Roofing Inc., we've been installing and maintaining wood shake roofs across the Triangle area for over 48 years.

The Hand-Split Difference

What sets wood shakes apart is the hand-splitting process. Unlike sawn shingles, shakes are split along the natural grain of the wood, creating pieces that are thicker, more textured, and inherently stronger. This process exposes the wood fibers in a way that naturally sheds water while creating the distinctive rustic character that has made wood shakes iconic.

Wood Species We Install

  • Western Red Cedar:The most popular choice—natural oils provide excellent decay and insect resistance
  • Alaskan Yellow Cedar:Even more durable than red cedar, with a tighter grain structure
  • Redwood:Natural beauty with excellent rot resistance, popular in premium installations
  • Treated Pine:Cost-effective option with pressure treatment for durability

Treatment & Protection Options

We offer various treatment options to enhance the performance and longevity of your wood shake roof:

  • Fire-retardant treatment - Achieves Class A or B fire rating
  • Preservative treatment - Extended protection against rot and insects
  • UV protection - Helps maintain natural color longer
  • Moss/algae resistance - Prevents organic growth

Natural Beauty That Lasts

A wood shake roof is more than just protection—it's a statement. Whether your home is a craftsman bungalow, a mountain retreat, or a traditional colonial, wood shakes add character that synthetic materials simply cannot match.

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Wood Shake Roofing FAQs

What's the difference between wood shakes and wood shingles?
Wood shakes are hand-split from logs, creating thick, textured pieces with irregular surfaces (3/4" to 1" thick). Wood shingles are machine-cut (sawn) for a smoother, more uniform appearance and are thinner (3/8" to 1/2"). Shakes have a more rustic look and typically last longer due to their thickness.
How long does a wood shake roof last?
With proper maintenance, wood shake roofs typically last 30-50 years. Premium grades of cedar or redwood shakes, combined with regular treatment and maintenance, can extend lifespan toward the upper end of this range.
What types of wood are used for shake roofing?
The most common woods for shake roofing are Western Red Cedar (most popular due to natural oils and durability), Alaskan Yellow Cedar, and Redwood. Each species has natural resistance to rot, decay, and insects. We can discuss which option is best for your home.
Are wood shake roofs fire resistant?
Untreated wood shakes have a Class C fire rating. However, pressure-treated shakes can achieve Class A or Class B fire ratings. We offer fire-retardant treated shakes for homeowners wanting maximum fire protection or living in fire-prone areas.
How much maintenance does a wood shake roof require?
Wood shake roofs require more maintenance than some materials. This includes annual inspections, debris removal, moss/algae cleaning when needed, and treatment with wood preservatives every 3-5 years. Prompt repair of damaged shakes is also important.
How much does a wood shake roof cost in Raleigh?
Wood shake roofing typically costs $10-20+ per square foot installed in Raleigh, depending on wood species, grade, treatment, and roof complexity. While more expensive than asphalt, the natural beauty and 30-50 year lifespan provide excellent long-term value.

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Experience authentic wood shake beauty

Our Wood Shake Installation Process

1

Wood Selection

Choose species, grade, and treatment options for your specific needs

2

Deck Preparation

Install proper underlayment and ensure adequate ventilation for wood longevity

3

Expert Installation

Hand-place each shake with proper spacing for expansion and drainage

4

Care Instructions

Detailed walkthrough of maintenance requirements to maximize lifespan

Ready for Authentic Wood Shake Beauty?

Get your free estimate and bring timeless natural character to your home.