Best Roofing Materials for Hot Dry Climates
Discover the best roofing materials for hot dry climates in Utah. Learn how to protect your home from heat damage with expert energy-saving tips.
Hand-Split, Machine-Cut and Synthetic
Cedar Shake Roofing in Utah
Natural cedar gives a home warmth and character. Synthetic shake gives you the same look with less upkeep.
- Per Sq Ft for Hand-Split Shakes
- $8–16
- Year Natural Lifespan
- 20–30
- Synthetic Wind Rating
- 110 mph
- Synthetic Fire Rating
- Class A
Cedar Shake Roofing for Utah Homes
Cedar shake roofing offers a natural, rustic look and good insulation, and it stands up to our heat and storms when it's installed and cared for well.
If you want the look with less upkeep, or you live in a wildfire-prone area, synthetic shake or fire-retardant treated cedar is the better fit. Either way, we handle the permits and inspections and install your roof to local code.
- Hand-Split Cedar Shakes
- Machine-Cut Cedar Shingles
- Synthetic Shake
- Fire-Retardant Options
Shake Types
Cedar Shake Roofing Options
Hand-Split Cedar Shakes
Thick, rough-textured shakes split by hand for the most rustic, dimensional look.
Machine-Cut Cedar Shingles
Sawn to a thinner, smoother and more uniform profile for a tailored look at a lower price.
Synthetic Shake
Engineered to look like cedar, in a wide range of colors, with far less upkeep.
Compare
Natural Cedar vs Synthetic Shake
- Natural Cedar Lifespan
- 20–30 years with annual cleaning and treatments
- Synthetic Shake Lifespan
- 40–50 years with minimal upkeep
- Fire Rating
- Synthetic shake is Class A. In wildfire-prone areas, choose fire-retardant treated cedar.
- Wind Rating
- Synthetic shake is rated for 110 mph winds
- Impact
- Synthetic shake is impact-resistant
- Maintenance
- Natural cedar needs yearly cleaning and treatment. Synthetic needs very little.
Our Work
A Historic Church in Cedar Shake
We re-roofed a historic church in cedar shake, steeple included. Cedar suits the building's age and character.
It remains a natural fit for historic homes and buildings, where the original style matters. See more finished projects in our gallery.
- Full Cedar Shake Re-Roof
- Steeple Included
- Historic Brick Building
Care
Getting the Most From a Cedar Roof
Annual Cleaning
Clear debris, moss and algae every year so the wood can dry out between storms.
Regular Treatments
Moisture-resistant treatments help natural cedar reach its full 20–30 year lifespan.
Trim Nearby Trees
Shade and falling debris keep a roof damp, which encourages moss and rot.
Fire-Retardant Options
In wildfire-prone areas, choose fire-retardant treated cedar or a Class A synthetic shake.
Cedar Shake Roof Before and After
Real A1 Roofing projects. Drag the slider to compare.
Utah County Roofing Reviews
What Utah County homeowners and builders say about A1 Roofing.
Our entire roof was replaced in one day. I was expecting at least a few days. The crew worked efficiently and the new roof looks really good. The yard was cleaned up exceptionally well. I would highly recommend A1 Roofing if you need your roof replaced.
“Quick to action, quality work and very communicative.”
Nathan S.
“They have a lifetime workmanship guarantee, use premium materials and got our roof done in one day!”
Aaron M.
“They were on time, laid out tarps to protect things and cleaned as they worked.”
James J.
Cedar Shake Roofing FAQ
How Long Does a Cedar Shake Roof Last?
Natural cedar lasts 20 to 30 years with annual cleaning and treatments. Synthetic shake lasts 40 to 50 years with minimal upkeep.
What Is the Difference Between Cedar Shakes and Cedar Shingles?
Shakes are split, so they're thicker, with a rough, textured face. Shingles are sawn by machine, so they're thinner, smoother and more uniform.
Both are cedar, and machine-cut shingles usually cost less: $6–10 per sq ft installed, compared with $8–16 for hand-split shakes.
Do You Handle Cedar Shake Roof Replacement?
Yes. We tear off worn cedar roofs and replace them with new cedar, synthetic shake or another material, such as asphalt shingles or metal.
Split or missing shakes, heavy moss and leaks are signs it's time.
Is Cedar Shake a Good Choice in Wildfire Areas?
Untreated cedar is a concern in wildfire-prone zones. Choose fire-retardant treated cedar, or a synthetic shake with a Class A fire rating.
Does a Cedar Roof Help With Insulation?
Yes. Cedar adds natural insulation, which helps your home handle summer heat. It's one reason homeowners choose it, along with curb appeal.
Is Cedar Shake Roofing Eco-Friendly?
Cedar is a natural material, and it's biodegradable at the end of its life.
Cedar Shake Roofing Tips and Guides
From our roofing blog, written for Utah homeowners.
All Roofing TipsRelated Roofing Services
Roof Replacement
Full tear-off and new roof, built to manufacturer specs with a lifetime workmanship warranty.
Asphalt Shingle Roofing
Architectural and luxury shingles rated for Utah heat, snow and hail.
Metal Roofing
Standing seam, corrugated and stone-coated steel roofs that last 40–70 years.
Get a Free Cedar Roof Estimate
We'll inspect your roof and help you weigh natural cedar against synthetic shake.
- Lifetime Workmanship Warranty
- Google Guaranteed
- Financing Available