The Complete Overview of Installing Cedar Shake Siding
Cedar shake siding transforms a house into a statement piece, blending rustic elegance with modern durability. But its installation is more than a cosmetic upgrade—it’s a structural and protective layer that shields against wind, rain, and UV degradation. The process begins long before the first shake is hung: with meticulous planning for climate, substrate conditions, and tool selection. Cedar’s natural oils make it resistant to rot, but only if installed correctly. A single gap in the underlayment or improper fastener placement can turn a $20,000 project into a $2,000 repair bill within a decade. The core challenge lies in balancing two opposing forces: rigidity (to resist wind uplift) and flexibility (to accommodate wood’s seasonal expansion). Cedar shakes swell and contract with humidity, so installers use staggered joints, ventilation gaps, and corrosion-resistant nails to future-proof the installation. Unlike vinyl or fiber cement, cedar requires breathing room—literally. Without proper airflow behind the shakes, trapped moisture becomes a silent enemy, fostering mold and structural decay. This is why **how to install cedar shake siding** isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s about engineering a system that outlasts the home’s original warranty.Historical Background and Evolution
Cedar shake siding traces its roots to Indigenous North American craftsmanship, where Western Red Cedar (*Thuja plicata*) was split into thin, overlapping layers to weatherproof longhouses and totem poles. European settlers adopted the technique, prizing cedar’s natural resistance to insects and decay—a rarity in pre-industrial building materials. By the 19th century, shakes became a staple of American architecture, especially in coastal regions where salt spray would corrode metal and warp softer woods. The craft peaked during the Arts and Crafts movement, where architects like Frank Lloyd Wright specified cedar for its organic, textured beauty. Modern cedar shakes are milled with precision, using rotary lathes to create uniform thickness and taper. Today’s shakes are classified by grade (e.g., "Clear" for flawless grain, "Select" for minor knots) and thickness (typically 0.5" to 0.75"). Advances in kiln-drying and chemical treatments (like fire retardants) have extended their lifespan, but the installation principles remain rooted in tradition: overlapping rows to shed water, ventilation to prevent rot, and hand-cut notches to accommodate structural features. Understanding this lineage explains why cedar remains a gold standard—it’s not just siding; it’s a proven system.Core Mechanisms: How It Works
The genius of cedar shake siding lies in its layered defense system. Each shake overlaps the one below it by 1.5" to 2" (the "exposure"), creating a water-shedding barrier. When rain hits, it runs off the top edge and drips onto the next row, never pooling. The bottom edge of each shake is beveled to prevent water from wicking behind the board—a detail often overlooked in DIY projects. Beneath the shakes, a breathable underlayment (like 30# felt or synthetic membrane) acts as a secondary moisture barrier, while a ventilation gap (1"–2") behind the siding allows trapped air to circulate, preventing condensation. Fasteners are the unsung heroes of the installation. Galvanized or stainless-steel nails (never aluminum, which corrodes) are driven just below the shake’s top edge to avoid splitting. Overdriving can crack the wood; underdriving leaves gaps for wind or pests. The spacing between fasteners (typically 8"–12" on center) must account for wood movement—too tight, and the shakes will buckle in dry seasons. This interplay of overlap, fastener placement, and ventilation transforms raw cedar into a self-healing facade, provided each element is executed with precision.Key Benefits and Crucial Impact
Few exterior finishes combine beauty, durability, and low maintenance like cedar shake siding. Its natural resistance to insects, rot, and UV damage means homeowners avoid the frequent repainting or sealing required by other materials. Cedar’s thermal properties also make it an energy-efficient choice—its insulating value helps regulate indoor temperatures, reducing heating and cooling costs. But the real value lies in its timeless appeal: a cedar-clad home doesn’t just endure; it ages gracefully, developing a silvery patina that many find more attractive than pristine new siding. The environmental benefits further cement cedar’s reputation. Sourced from sustainably managed forests (look for FSC certification), cedar is a renewable resource with a lower carbon footprint than vinyl or fiber cement. Its biodegradability also simplifies disposal at the end of its life cycle. For homeowners prioritizing both performance and planet, cedar shakes offer a rare convergence of luxury and responsibility. > *"Cedar siding isn’t just a surface—it’s a living part of the house, reacting to the elements like a second skin. Install it right, and it becomes a legacy."* — **Mark McCloud, Master Builder & Cedar Siding Specialist**Major Advantages
- Natural Insulation: Cedar’s cellular structure traps air, improving R-value and reducing energy loss by up to 20% compared to vinyl.
- Weather Resistance: Western Red Cedar contains natural oils that deter mold, mildew, and termites without chemical treatments.
- Aesthetic Versatility: Available in natural, tanned, or pressure-treated grades, cedar adapts to rustic, modern, or transitional styles.
- Low Maintenance: Requires only periodic sealing (every 5–7 years) to preserve color and integrity, unlike painted siding that chips.
- Longevity: Properly installed cedar shakes last 25–40 years, with some historic examples exceeding 100 years.
Comparative Analysis
| Cedar Shake Siding | Alternatives (Vinyl/Fiber Cement) |
|---|---|
| Organic, breathable, ages naturally | Non-porous, traps moisture if improperly installed |
| Requires sealing every 5–7 years | Seamless but prone to cracking in extreme temps |
| Higher upfront cost ($4–$8/sq. ft.) | Lower initial cost ($2–$5/sq. ft.) but higher long-term repairs |
| Sustainable, biodegradable | Petroleum-based, landfill-bound at end of life |
Future Trends and Innovations
The cedar shake industry is evolving with technology that enhances durability without sacrificing authenticity. Fire-retardant treatments (like borate solutions) now allow cedar to meet strict wildfire zone codes, expanding its use in high-risk areas. Meanwhile, pre-primed shakes reduce installation time by eliminating on-site sealing, though purists argue this sacrifices cedar’s natural aging process. Hybrid systems—combining cedar shakes with engineered wood panels—are also gaining traction, offering the look of traditional siding with improved structural stability. Sustainability will drive the next wave of innovation. Expect to see more shakes sourced from fast-growing cedar varieties (like Eastern White Cedar) and closed-loop manufacturing processes that minimize waste. For DIYers, smart tools—like laser-guided nailers for precise fastener placement—will lower the barrier to professional-quality installations. As climate concerns grow, cedar’s renewable credentials and adaptability position it as a front-runner in eco-conscious building.
Conclusion
Installing cedar shake siding is a labor of love that rewards patience with a facade as functional as it is beautiful. The key to success lies in respecting the material’s natural properties: allowing it to breathe, protecting it from moisture, and securing it with care. While the initial learning curve may seem steep, the payoff—a home that ages with character and stands resilient against the elements—is unmatched by synthetic alternatives. For those committed to the process, the tools and techniques outlined here will ensure your cedar shakes become a lasting asset, not a short-term fix. And remember: the best installations aren’t just technically sound—they’re a testament to craftsmanship, visible in the way light catches the grain or the way rain slides off in perfect sheets. That’s the difference between **how to install cedar shake siding** and how to install it *well*.Comprehensive FAQs
Q: Can I install cedar shakes over existing siding?
Not without proper preparation. Existing siding must be removed down to the sheathing, which is then inspected for rot or damage. If the underlying structure is sound, you can install a new underlayment and proceed with the cedar shakes. However, adding layers without removing the old siding risks trapping moisture and accelerating decay.
Q: What’s the best underlayment for cedar shakes?
Use a 30# felt paper or a synthetic breathable membrane (like GAF’s Weathertite). Avoid plastic-based underlayments—they trap moisture and can cause mold. The underlayment should extend 2" beyond the shakes at the bottom edge to prevent wind-driven rain from seeping behind the siding.
Q: How do I account for cedar’s seasonal expansion?
Leave a 1/8"–1/4" gap between shakes and the building’s corners or trim. Use "spacer strips" (thin wood or plastic) to maintain consistent spacing during installation. Fasteners should be driven just below the top edge of each shake to allow for movement without splitting the wood.
Q: Do I need to seal cedar shakes before installation?
No—sealing should wait until after installation to avoid trapping moisture. Once the siding is dry (after 4–6 weeks), apply a high-quality exterior stain or sealant. For the first year, avoid pressure washing, as wet shakes are more prone to splitting.
Q: What’s the ideal climate for cedar shake installation?
Avoid installing when temperatures are below 40°F or above 90°F, and never in direct sunlight or rain. Cedar expands and contracts with humidity, so install on a mild, overcast day. If you must work in humidity, allow extra time for shakes to acclimate to the job site for 24–48 hours before nailing.
Q: How do I cut cedar shakes around windows and vents?
Use a sharp utility knife to score the shake, then snap it along the cut line. For precise openings, clamp a straightedge guide and use a circular saw with a fine-tooth blade. Always leave a 1/4" gap around vents to allow for expansion. Seal edges with a flexible caulk designed for wood siding.
Q: What’s the lifespan of cedar shake siding?
With proper installation and maintenance, cedar shakes last 25–40 years. Western Red Cedar typically outperforms other species due to its natural oils. To extend longevity, inspect annually for loose shakes or signs of rot, and reseal every 5–7 years. In coastal areas, salt spray may require more frequent sealing.
