Cedar Shingles vs. Shakes vs. Clapboards – What’s The Difference?

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.