Wood roofs possess a certain natural beauty, are extremely durable, and help you reduce your cooling and heating expenses. This roof type is attractive and has a rustic charm. It’s the roofing material of choice for the restoration of historic properties.

Wood roofs are usually made from two primary types of wood — wood shingles and wood shakes.

Because they are cut by a machine, wood roofing shingles have a more uniform appearance and tidy edges. When installed, they have a nice and even look. Wood shingles are not as pricey as wood shakes, but they do require treatment with preservatives and fungicides to avoid mildew growth, warping, and cracking.

Manufactured by hand, wood shakes have a more natural and rough-hewn look. These are usually made from redwood, cypress, cedar, or pine. Wood shakes are thicker than wood shingles and are typically split into one or two sides.

The big difference between wood shakes and wood shingles is the way in which they are made, which then dictates how they look. Wood shingle roofing materials have a consistent appearance and lay flat on your roof because the manufacturing process ensures uniformity of appearance. Wood shakes are uneven and more rustic because they are typically made by hand.

Wood roofs may lose their original color over time. But because wood shakes and wood shingles are hard-wearing wood roofing materials, your wood roof can last about as long as asphalt shingles or slate roofs.