Cedar shingles and shakes were here long before the advent of asphalt shingles and are in fact the forefather of the asphalt shingle. Cedar shake and cedar shingle come primarily from western red cedar trees, eastern white cedar trees and Alaskan yellow cedar.
Cedar Shingles VS Cedar Shakes
The difference between shakes and shingles are how they are made. Basically a cedar shingle is sawn with uniform ends, tapered evenly and they have a smooth front and back (or similar/identical surfaces); a shake is split but can be sawn, they are more thick at the base end (a.k.a butt end), and are tapered from one end to the other.
Benefits of Cedar Shingles:
- With a little maintenance and TLC a wood shingle roof can actually outlast cheaper roof types which can turn the higher cost of wood shake into a cost savings benefit. A good wood roof that is not exposed to too harsh of weather conditions should last up to 30 years.
- Wood shingles are undeniably unique in their appearance. The unique look of wood is one of its most desired benefits.
- Wood shingles are organic and eco friendly. This is an important benefit for those that are looking to be environmentally friendly when choosing what type of roof material they should get installed on their roof.
- Wood shingles are much more energy efficient than asphalt shingles. This energy efficiency could save the homeowner money on their heating and a/c bills.
- Wood shingles are very durable. Unlike other materials they are not prone to crack from hail or by being punctured. They also can withstand high winds much better than asphalt shingles.
Negatives of Cedar Shingles:
- Wood shingles or shakes cost more in material and in installation costs. This can be a drawback to many homeowners.
- Wood shingles catch on fire much easier than other types of roofing material.
- Wood shingles are harder to install.
- Wood shingles take more to maintain. Wood shingles definitely do not fall under the “do it and forget about it” category. To make sure a wood shingle roof lasts it takes some TLC.
Wood shingles are susceptible to termite damage or other insect problems. They can also suffer from rotting and mold more easily.
Nathalie Elliott
2023-05-08
We had Niko Roofing install a new roof. From initial contact to finish, it was a great experience. Pricing is very reasonable and their service is great. Vlad and Max are both knowledgable, easy to communicate with and very responsive. The staff are super respectful, hardworking and efficient - they finished installing ours and our neighbours roof in two days, minimally affecting our day to day lives. They also repaired a few gutters which was just so easy and convenient. Definitely very pleased with the job and would recommend Niko Roofing to all!
Aida S
2023-01-14
Roofing, Siding and Eavestrough.
Top notch Professionals! Niko Roofing took over the insurance claim to replace the roof, siding and eavestrough. We also upgraded our siding and Vlad gave us a great price.
Incredible work and service received by Niko Roofing. Vlad is formidable to work with along with his crew. Vlad and his crew provided amazing handiwork and always kept us informed about the repairs work.
Our home looks fabulous. You cannot even tell it was a construction site as they left our property sparkling clean.
If you want a company that will stand by you, while providing superior handiwork, Niko Roofing is the company to go with!
You will not be disappointed.
Tracy B
2022-10-09
Incredible over all experience! Vlad and his crew were nice, respectful, worked very hard, cleaned up as the went and didn't leave until I was 100% satisfied. I would definitely recommend them to family and friends.
Tiyana Ramjeeawon
2022-08-21
Niko Roofing replaced my roof recently and did a wonderful job. They promptly provided me with an estimate and then matched the pricing of a competitor. Their crew was incredibly respectful of my property, my neighbours and the community as a whole. One crew person remained on the ground to immediately clear all debris away. They offer financing options which is also helpful. I had an inspection done on the roof after Niko Roofing had finished their work and it was flawless. Overall, I had an amazing experience with this company and highly recommend them.
David Henley
2022-05-08
I was very pleasantly surprised by the service I got from Niko Roofing. The owner stopped by in a timely fashion to do an estimate, and was able to show me different samples of appropriate roofing materials for my home, and to explain the advantages of each. After we chose the material and color, the materials were delivered in a very efficient manner. As soon as we had appropriate weather, we were placed on the schedule. The crew arrived slightly ahead of schedule and began work immediately. They worked almost non-stop from 7:30AM to 5:30PM and had the new roof completely installed and all the scrap materials picked up. I was totally impressed. I wouldn't hesitate to recommend Niko Roofing to anyone...
curtis lee
2021-05-07
Had to have siding replaced on one side of my house and some roof repair. Service was fantastic, everything went extremely smooth.
Lindsey Fiebig
2021-05-07
Niko was recommended by some of the people in my community when we were looking at getting out roof re-shingled. I sought out several quotes, and Niko’s was competitive, and has an excellent reputation in Calgary. Niko was quick to follow up with a date they could start and was only delayed one day because of weather. Vlad the owner communicated through email and text which was really helpful. The whole roof took one day with his team, and everything was done and cleaned up by 5:00pm. I was very impressed. The roof looks great, I loved the varied shingle selection, so was able to pick a colour and design that looks great. Overall, very happy with our decision to go with this company.
LuzMa Dallos
2021-04-18
Excellent service. On time, very good price and different options for payment.
Erin McKenzie
2021-04-14
Vlad's work is perfection! He is efficient, professional, very reasonably priced, excellent attitude. I highly recommend Niko Roofing LTD. We will definitely use Niko Roofing again.