Cedar Shingles vs. Shakes vs. Clapboards - What's The Difference? - Tom Curren Companies Skip to main content
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Cedar siding has always been a staple for homes in New England, and its popularity has only grown in recent years. Not only does cedar siding help protect your home for decades, but it also adds a cozy and natural aesthetic to your home. 

So now you’re probably wondering…

What cedar siding is best in New England?

Cedar shingle siding and cedar shakes are most similar in style, but there are a few key differences. To better understand the different cedar siding products, we’ve covered the three main types. 

Cedar Siding Shingles

Cedar Shingles

Cedar Siding Shakes

Cedar Shakes

Cedar Siding Clapboards

Cedar Clapboards

 

Cedar Shingle Siding

Cedar shingles are manufactured and finely cut using special machinery for precision. Cedar shingles are cut evenly on a machine and made to be laid in a smooth, symmetrical line. Shingles are naturally thinner than shakes and are finer on each side.

Cedar Shake Siding

In contrast to shingles, cedar shakes are cut irregularly by hand and bring a multidimensional look to your home. The main attribute that makes shakes different from shingles is that they are hand-split, rougher and typically larger. Unlike cedar shingles, cedar shakes don’t lie flat and have more of a raised appearance.

Cedar Clapboard Siding

If you are looking for a more traditional or rustic look, you might be interested in cedar clapboard. Clapboards are the standard style of siding with overlapped wooden planks. For hundreds of years, clapboards have been a popular choice for home siding due to their lightweight and easy installation. Cedar clapboards offer an elegant look of simplicity and last longer than traditional pine. It’s not uncommon for cedar siding to last over 50 years when properly maintained.

Cedar siding products are ranked in grades from A to D. Grading is done with regard to the extent of blemishes and knots – grade A being the purest. For a double-layered siding, the shingles of clearer grades should be installed on top.

If you’re considering cedar siding for your home, please give our team a call. We’ll provide a through consultation on what style of cedar siding is right for you.

 

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