Thinking about a cedar roof? Cedar roofing is known for its natural beauty, strong performance, and classic look. But like any home improvement project, it comes with both advantages and disadvantages. That’s why it’s important to understand the pros and cons of cedar roofing before you make a decision.
Whether you’re drawn to the rugged look of cedar shakes, the smooth finish of cedar shingles, or the easy care of synthetic cedar, knowing the cedar roofing benefits and cedar roofing drawbacks will help you find the right fit for your home.
Let’s break it down together.
Why Ogden Homeowners Love Cedar Roofing
Cedar has been used for roofing for generations. It’s popular for a reason; it looks great and performs well. Here are some of the top cedar roofing benefits Ogden homeowners can enjoy.
Looks That Stand Out
Cedar roofs add charm and style. Cedar shake roofing gives your home a bold, rustic feel that looks great on cabins and craftsman-style houses. Cedar shingles, on the other hand, create a more even and classic appearance, perfect for coastal or traditional-style homes.
No matter which one you choose, cedar roofing gives your house a unique, natural look that boosts curb appeal and home value.
Keeps Your Home Comfortable
Cedar is a natural insulator. That means it helps keep your home warm in winter and cool in summer. In fact, cedar insulates almost twice as well as regular asphalt shingles. You’ll save on energy bills and feel more comfortable inside, year-round.
Built to Handle Tough Weather
Cedar is tough. When taken care of, cedar shake and shingle roofs can last anywhere from 30 to 50 years. Thanks to its natural oils, cedar is good at fighting off insects, moisture, and rot. It also holds up well in heavy snow, strong winds, and rain, perfect for homes in Ogden’s changing weather.
Synthetic cedar takes things even further. It looks just like real wood but stands up better to sun, storms, and time. Plus, it doesn’t warp, fade, or crack. It’s a smart choice if you love the look of cedar but want less maintenance.
Eco-Friendly Option
Cedar is a renewable resource, so it’s a great pick if you’re thinking green. It’s biodegradable and has a lower carbon footprint than many man-made roofing options.
Synthetic cedar can be eco-friendly too, many brands use recycled materials, and they’re recyclable when it’s time for a replacement.
Cedar Roofing Drawbacks to Consider
While there’s a lot to love about cedar, there are a few things to keep in mind. Here are the biggest cedar roofing drawbacks you should know.
Higher Cost Up Front
Cedar costs more than asphalt shingles, both in materials and installation. That’s because it’s a premium roofing product and needs an experienced installer. If you’re working with a tight budget, the new cedar roof cost might feel a bit steep, but it pays off in long-term value and energy savings.
Synthetic cedar is often priced in the mid to high range, too, but you may save money down the road thanks to fewer repairs and less upkeep.
It Needs Some TLC
A natural cedar roof needs regular care to stay in good shape. You’ll want to keep leaves and branches off the roof, trim back nearby trees, and sometimes apply treatments to prevent mold and sun damage. Without maintenance, cedar can fade, crack, or curl, especially in humid or dry climates.
Not a fan of maintenance? Synthetic cedar could be your solution. It doesn’t need sealing, resists mold and algae, and holds its color and shape for decades.
Fire Risk with Natural Wood
Cedar is strong, but it’s still wood, which means it can catch fire if not treated. Many cities now require fire-retardant treatments for wood roofs. While this makes the roof safer, it also adds to the total cost and may need to be reapplied later.
Synthetic cedar often comes with a Class A fire rating, making it a safer pick in wildfire-prone areas like some parts of Utah.
Quick Comparison: Types of Cedar Roofs
Here’s an easy way to compare your cedar roofing options.
Cedar Shake Roofing
- Rough, hand-split wood for a rustic look
- Great insulation and weather resistance
- Perfect for craftsman and mountain-style homes
- Needs regular cleaning and care
- Costs more than other roof types
Cedar Shingle Roofing
- Smooth, sawn wood for a clean finish
- Naturally resists decay
- Ideal for classic or coastal-style homes
- Still needs maintenance
- A bit more affordable than shakes
Synthetic Cedar Roofing
- Looks like wood, lasts like metal
- Zero maintenance required
- Resists fire, sun, water, and wind
- Lasts longer than natural cedar
- Best for low-maintenance homeowners
Is Cedar Roofing Right for You?
Choosing the right roof doesn’t have to be hard. Start by thinking about what matters most: looks, durability, cost, and maintenance. If you want a natural roof that’s energy-efficient and beautiful, and you don’t mind a bit of upkeep, real cedar could be perfect.
If you want the look without the hassle, synthetic cedar gives you the best of both worlds. Many Ogden homeowners are making the switch for the long-term benefits and stress-free care.
Schedule Your Free Cedar Roofing Inspection in Ogden
Still not sure what’s best for your home? That’s where we come in. At Homer Roofing, we help Ogden homeowners find the perfect roof for their style, budget, and lifestyle.
We install all types of cedar roofing, natural shakes, refined shingles, and ultra-durable synthetic cedar, and we’ll walk you through the pros and cons of cedar roofing so you can make the best choice.
Contact us today to schedule your free cedar roofing inspection and get a personalized quote. We’re here to make your roof upgrade easy, honest, and beautiful.
