Wood Shakes and Shingles: What’s the Difference?

No other residential roofing material can match the timeless beauty of wood. It lends a warm, rustic appeal to traditional homes, making them stand out in the neighborhood. While imitations from asphalt shingles have come a long way, they fall short of fully capturing wood’s classic appearance.

A wood roof is a significant expense, which is why it’s important to weigh your options. There are two types of wood roofing: shingles and shakes. Read on as Tango and Gatti discusses the differences between these options so you can make an informed decision:

Wood Shakes

Wood shakes have a charmingly rugged look, with each piece looking a bit different. This is because each shake is split off using a froe mallet. Although most shakes are still made by hand, some are made by advanced equipment to speed up production. These are usually split on one side and sawn on the other. Their distinctive look adds unique character to cottage- and cabin-style homes.

Installing wood shakes is a complicated process that requires a deep level of expertise from your roofing contractor. Because they are not made to be uniform, wood shakes can’t lay completely flat on the roof. As a highly experienced roofing contractor, rest assured that we’ll deliver flawless workmanship.

Wood Shingles

Wood shingles have a smooth, uniform appeal. Using a machine, they are sawn on both sides and cut tapered. They work best on Colonial, Victorian, and Ranch homes.

They are easier to install because they lay flat on the roof. Placed in overlapping layers, wood shingles provide superior protection against the elements. We recommend opting for premium grade shingles if you live in an area with challenging weather conditions.

You can count on Tango and Gatti for all your roofing needs. As the leading home improvement company in the area, our focus lies on first-rate services and cost-effective solutions. Call us at (330) 303-4222 for more information about our products and services. We serve Canton and Barnesville, OH.