Cedar Shake | Smith Builders | Bangor, Ellsworth, Belfast, Maine

Cedar shake provides a textured exterior surface that performs in the humidity and temperature swings common across Maine. Smith Builders installs cedar shake on residential and commercial structures, working with clients who need the dimensional stability and natural rot resistance that comes from split cedar rather than sawn material. The irregular surface created by splitting creates deeper shadow lines than milled siding and exposes wood grain patterns that shed water along the natural fiber direction.

Installation requires proper spacing between individual shakes to allow for expansion when wood absorbs moisture during humid summer months and fall rainstorms. Each shake is fastened above the exposure line to prevent water from reaching fastener penetrations, and courses are staggered so vertical joints never align between adjacent rows. This offset pattern prevents water from running straight through the assembly during driving rain events that push moisture at angles rather than straight down.

Arrange an on-site evaluation to determine whether your structure can support cedar shake and discuss ventilation requirements.

Cedar contains natural oils that resist fungal growth and insect damage even in damp conditions, which explains why historic buildings throughout the region still have functioning cedar shake decades after installation. The split surface increases exposed wood area compared to smooth siding, allowing moisture that does penetrate to evaporate quickly rather than remaining trapped against sheathing. Proper installation includes an air gap behind the shakes and a drainage plane that directs any infiltrated water down and out before it reaches structural components.

After installation, you'll see a surface with varied texture and color that changes as the cedar weathers from its original warm tone to silver-gray. The dimensional thickness of shakes creates pronounced shadow lines that shift throughout the day as sun angle changes, giving the building exterior visual interest that flat siding cannot replicate. Over time, the wood develops a patina that actually improves weather resistance as surface cells harden from UV exposure and moisture cycling.

Cedar shake requires different maintenance than composite or metal siding, with occasional cleaning to remove organic debris from valleys and periodic inspection for shakes that have cupped or split beyond normal aging patterns. The material works on both wall and roof applications, though roof installations demand steeper pitch to ensure water runs off quickly. Some property owners apply clear treatments to slow weathering, while others prefer the natural gray aging process.

How long does cedar shake last in climates with harsh winters?
Properly installed and maintained cedar shake can perform for thirty to fifty years, with lifespan depending on exposure, roof pitch or wall orientation, and whether the building is in a sheltered or wind-exposed location. South-facing applications weather faster due to UV intensity and thermal cycling.
What preparation does existing siding require before cedar shake installation?
The substrate must provide a flat nailing surface and adequate ventilation behind the new shakes, which sometimes means removing old siding entirely rather than covering it. Smith Builders evaluates sheathing condition to ensure it can hold fasteners securely and support the additional weight cedar adds compared to vinyl or aluminum.
How does cedar shake perform in fire-prone areas?
Untreated cedar has lower fire resistance than Class A rated materials, though treatment options exist for areas where fire codes require higher ratings. Glenburn and surrounding areas have varying requirements depending on proximity to forests and local ordinances.
What causes some cedar shakes to curl or split over time?
Inadequate spacing during installation prevents expansion room, and fasteners placed too low can restrict movement as wood swells with moisture absorption. Quality installation leaves proper gaps and positions fasteners where they allow dimensional change without splitting the shake.
When does weathered cedar need replacement versus just maintenance?
Individual shakes that have split completely through or cupped enough to create water entry points can be replaced without disturbing surrounding material, while surface checking and color change are normal aging patterns that don't compromise performance. Regular inspection identifies problem areas before minor issues become structural concerns.