Wood Roofing: Why Custom-Cut Shakes Are a Timeless Choice

Wood roofing—especially custom-cut cedar shakes—has long been admired for its natural beauty and reliable performance. If you live in Gainesville, Georgia, or nearby communities like Dawsonville, Cumming, or Dahlonega, there’s something about a shake roof that just fits our Southern style and climate.

But looks aren’t the only reason homeowners ask L&L Roofing about wood shakes.

Let’s talk about why custom-cut wood shakes remain a trusted, high-quality roofing option—and whether they might be right for your home.

What Makes Custom-Cut Shakes Different?

You’ve probably seen generic wood roofing before. But custom-cut shakes stand out—and not just in appearance.

Here’s how they’re different:

• Hand-selected cedar for consistency and performance

• Cut to precise sizes for optimal coverage and weather resistance

• Tapered and split to enhance texture and improve water shedding

• Installed with exacting methods to prevent premature wear

Our team at L&L Roofing only sources Certi-label™ cedar shakes, the industry gold standard, verified by the Cedar Shake & Shingle Bureau.

Why Homeowners Choose Wood Roofing in North Georgia

We’ve worked on dozens of wood shake roofs across Hall, Dawson, and Forsyth counties. These are the top reasons our clients go with cedar:

1. Natural Beauty

There’s no comparison. A cedar shake roof brings texture and character that asphalt shingles simply can’t match.

It pairs especially well with:

• Rustic mountain homes in Dahlonega

• Lake homes near Lanier

• Craftsman-style houses in Flowery Branch

2. Longevity (When Installed Right)

A properly installed cedar shake roof can last 30–50 years, especially with regular maintenance and proper ventilation.

3. Superior Insulation

Cedar is a natural insulator. It helps keep your home cooler in summer and warmer in winter—which makes a big difference here in Georgia’s mixed climate.

4. Wind and Impact Resistance

Custom-cut shakes have a thicker butt and tighter installation pattern, giving them a better shot at standing up to hail and high winds—especially when combined with a solid underlayment system.

Key Considerations for Cedar Shake Roofing

Before choosing wood roofing, make sure you understand the upkeep involved.

• Ventilation matters. A cedar shake roof must breathe to prevent moisture buildup. We follow best practices from the Roof Assembly Ventilation Coalition (RAVC).

• Not all shakes are equal. We only install Certi-Split® or Certi-Sawn® shakes that meet CSSB standards.

• Regular inspections are key. Plan for a professional inspection every few years to catch moss, damaged shakes, or flashing issues early.

Why Choose L&L Roofing for Custom Wood Shake Installation?

We’re not a volume-based roofing contractor. We’re a faith-driven, quality-first roofing partner rooted in North Georgia.

Here’s what sets us apart:

• Owner-led on every project — you’ll meet Luke Heaps personally.

• Handpicked materials, never shortcuts

• Experience with steep-slope installs and ventilation detail

• Clear communication, honest quotes, and long-term warranties

As one customer in Cumming said:

“L&L Roofing replaced our roof with standing seam and wood shake combo—it turned out stunning. Honest folks who care about the craft.”

FAQs About Custom-Cut Cedar Shakes

How long does a cedar shake roof last in Georgia?
With proper installation and ventilation, 30–50 years is realistic. Regular cleaning and inspections help extend lifespan.

Can you install wood shakes in high humidity areas like Gainesville?
Yes—but only with proper ventilation, spacing, and underlayment. That’s where experience matters.

What maintenance is required?
Inspections every 2–3 years, cleaning debris from valleys, and replacing broken shakes as needed. We offer maintenance plans.

Do you offer treated shakes?
Yes. We can install fire-retardant or pressure-treated cedar shakes per code or insurance requirements.

Thinking about a cedar shake roof? Let’s walk your property and see what’s possible. At L&L Roofing, we’ll give you honest answers and top-tier craftsmanship.

Call us today at (770) 874-0372 or schedule a consult on our website.