Cedar Shake Roofing: What Gainesville Homeowners Need to Know

If you're a homeowner in Gainesville, Georgia—or nearby in places like Cumming, Flowery Branch, or Dahlonega—cedar shake roofing might be on your radar for its rustic charm. But is it the right fit for your roof? Here’s what you need to know, straight from the team at L&L Roofing & Construction.

What Is Cedar Shake Roofing?

Cedar shakes are hand-split wood roofing materials, typically made from Western Red Cedar. Unlike standard wood shingles, shakes have a thicker, rougher texture that gives them a more natural, rugged appearance.

There are three main types:

• Certi-Split® (Handsplit & Resawn): Textured face, sawn back—most rustic.

• Certi-Sawn® (Tapersawn): Sawn on both sides—more uniform.

• Certigrade® Shingles: Sawn on both sides, thinner—more refined appearance.

At L&L Roofing, we use only CSSB-certified products, which means third-party quality control and compliance with national building codes.

Pros of Cedar Shake Roofing

✅ Natural Insulation
Cedar provides up to two times the insulation of asphalt shingles. That’s extra comfort in both the Georgia heat and winter chill.

✅ Timeless Curb Appeal
Whether you’re in historic downtown Gainesville or a wooded lot in Dawsonville, cedar shakes offer an unmatched natural aesthetic.

✅ Durability When Properly Maintained
Premium-grade cedar shakes, installed and ventilated correctly, can last 30 to 50 years.

✅ Sustainable & Biodegradable
Unlike synthetic roofing, cedar shakes are a renewable material with a smaller carbon footprint.

Cons to Consider

⚠️ Maintenance Is Non-Negotiable
You’ll need to regularly:

• Clean off moss, mildew, and leaves

• Check for broken or split shakes

• Ensure adequate attic ventilation

⚠️ Not Ideal for Low-Slope Roofs
Shakes require a minimum roof pitch of 4:12 for proper drainage.

⚠️ Higher Upfront Cost
Material and labor are more than asphalt or basic metal—but you’re paying for craftsmanship and appearance.

⚠️ Fire Risk Without Treatment
Untreated wood is flammable. L&L only installs Class A fire-rated, pressure-treated cedar shakes per CSSB standards.

Our Honest Take for Gainesville Homes

At L&L Roofing & Construction, we’ve seen cedar shake roofs thrive on:

• Cabin-style homes

• Lake Lanier retreats

• Rustic estate properties

But we don’t recommend cedar shakes if:

• You want a set-it-and-forget-it roof

• Your attic lacks proper ventilation

• You’re in an area with frequent heavy tree cover and moisture

We always inspect the full roof system—including decking, underlayment, and airflow—before recommending cedar.

Cedar Shake FAQs

How long does a cedar shake roof last in North Georgia?
With premium shakes and proper maintenance, you can expect 30–40 years. Add another 5–10 with fire/mildew treatments and good ventilation.

Can I install cedar shakes over my existing shingles?
No. Best practice is full tear-off to inspect the deck and install a proper underlayment system.

Is it worth the cost over asphalt shingles?
If you’re after long-term beauty, sustainability, and higher home value—yes. But it’s not for everyone. We’ll help you weigh the options.

Thinking About a Cedar Shake Roof?

Give us a call at (770) 874-0372. We’ll come out, walk your roof, and give you an honest assessment. No pressure. No gimmicks.

We serve Gainesville and nearby areas like Buford, Lula, Coal Mountain, and beyond.

Because at L&L Roofing, we do the right thing—because it’s the right thing.