Cedar shingles are an iconic part of coastal architecture, adding charm and character to shoreline homes. This siding has been a staple in This Old House projects, including the 2020 Idea House: Cottage on the Cape. In this article, we’ll explore the allure of cedar shingles, their benefits, and various ways to incorporate them into your home’s exterior design.
Benefits of Cedar Shingles
Cedar shingles are a popular choice for coastal homes, particularly in the Northeast. They’re aesthetically pleasing and come with several practical benefits.
Eastern white cedar, the species commonly used for shingles, is prized for its natural resistance to insects and rot. This resistance stems from oils present in the wood, making it a durable option for exterior siding. Unlike some other wood species, cedar is dimensionally stable, meaning it’s less prone to warping, expanding, or contracting with changes in temperature and humidity. This allows for easy installation without the risk of cracking during the nailing process.
White cedar shingles are also sustainable. The trees they’re made from are specifically grown for the housing industry, making them a renewable resource.
Pro Tip: Roofer Greg Blake, owner of Cedar Restoration Inc., says longevity comes down to maintenance: “I’ve been on cedar roofs that were 70 years old but looked like they were installed yesterday. And I’ve been on roofs just 7 years old that looked 70.” Blake notes that too much sun slowly breaks down fiber, and debris traps water and fosters decay. With regular maintenance, he says, a properly installed wood roof with top-quality shingles should last 40 to 50 years.
Letting Shingles Age Gracefully
As cedar shingles age, they gradually transition from their original warm, honey-like hue to a distinguished silvery-gray color. This weathered look is highly sought after in coastal regions, as it evokes a sense of timelessness and connection to the natural environment. The rate and pattern of this color change can vary depending on several factors, such as the following:
- Exposure to sunlight
- Home orientation
- Moisture levels
- Proximity to salt water
Shingles that receive more direct sunlight and excess moisture and salt spray typically weather more quickly than those in protected areas. This can result in color variations across different parts of the home, creating a unique, lived-in appearance that many homeowners like.
Pro Tip: Tom Silva, This Old House general contractor, advises accepting the natural aging process: “Forget about keeping your roof looking like new; wood is going to turn gray no matter what you do.” To preserve shingles as long as possible, he recommends keeping the roof clean with an annual sweeping or blowing to remove pine needles, leaves, and other debris that can trap moisture and accelerate decay.
Speeding Up the Cedar-Shingle Aging Process
While natural weathering can create a beautiful patina, some homeowners prefer a more uniform appearance or wish to accelerate the aging process. Fortunately, there are several ways to achieve a weathered look quickly.
SBC Cedar, a leading cedar shingle manufacturer, offers three types of weathering agents to create an aged look while also providing wood protection:
- Enviro-bleach: This water-based solution replicates the appearance of oil-based stains but with a more environmentally friendly formulation. It’s designed to meet strict standards for volatile organic compounds (VOCs), making it a greener choice for homeowners.
- Bleaching oil: This is an oil-based weathering agent that imparts a subtle gray tone upon application. After a few months of exposure to the elements, it develops into a soft, driftwood-gray finish that mimics years of natural aging.
- Weathering stain: Similar to bleaching oil, this oil-based product accelerates the weathering process. However, it contains additional pigments that result in a more intense gray color, perfect for those who want a bolder aged look.
Pro Tip: Norm Abram, This Old House master carpenter, notes that bleaching oil—a product that artificially oxidizes the wood—can help turn shingles a uniform gray when a home is far from the coast, but cautions: “It works for a while, but you don’t get the same nice silver gray, and eventually it will turn black.” For inland homes, Norm recommends staining red cedar shingles over an oil-based primer as a more reliable long-term approach to controlling color.
Note that these weathering agents may not offer the same level of protection as traditional stains or sealants. You should also be aware that coating warranties typically don’t apply when using weathering agents. Factor in regular maintenance and the potential need for additional treatments when deciding whether to use these products.
Factory-Applied Color Finishes
Factory-applied color finishes are great for those who want a more controlled and consistent appearance on their home’s exterior. These finishes look nice and offer long-lasting protection for cedar shingles.
SBC Cedar’s factory-applied finish process begins with kiln-drying the shingles through dehumidification. This ensures maximum adherence of the finish and optimal wood stability. The shingles are then dipped in a 100% acrylic coating from PPG/Olympic that’s specially formulated to repel moisture, resist extreme weather, and prevent mildew growth.
This protective coating is so effective that SBC can offer warranties of up to 25 years against cracking and peeling, providing homeowners with peace of mind and long-lasting beauty for their home’s exterior.
Pro Tip: Under ideal conditions—salt air and bright sun—cedar weathers to the beautiful silvery gray of a Cape Cod cottage. But in damp, shady locations, the result can be far less attractive. As noted in This Old House Magazine, wind, water, and sunlight gang up to change wood’s color, and at worst, woodland settings can produce “a dingy, blackish blotch-work of mildew, dirt, and mold.” Understanding your home’s specific exposure is key to knowing whether your shingles will age gracefully on their own or need a helping hand from stain or finish.
Solid Colors Make a Statement
If you want to make a bold statement with your exterior design, solid color finishes on cedar shingles is the way to go. Using a rich, solid color allows you to maintain your home’s cottage charm while adding a unique element. This can be particularly effective in areas where neutral tones dominate, helping your home to stand out without sacrificing its coastal character.
When choosing a solid color for cedar shingles, consider the following factors to select a solid color that complements your home’s design and surroundings:
- Local regulations or homeowners’ association guidelines
- The overall architectural style of your home
- The surrounding landscape and neighboring properties
- Your personal color preferences and desired curb appeal
Pro Tip: Becky Ralitch, a senior color design consultant at Sherwin-Williams, suggests tracing the outline of your house from a photo, making some copies, and trying out different combinations with colored pencils or markers. Before you buy a dozen gallons, use your house as a test lab by painting a 4-by-4-foot area, ideally next to a window or door so you can compare trim and accent colors.
Maintaining Cedar Shingles
To ensure your cedar shingle siding stays looking great, prioritize proper maintenance. Regular care can help preserve the wood’s natural qualities and make your siding last longer. Here are some tips for:
- Clean the surface gently with a soft brush and mild detergent solution
- Inspect regularly for damage or signs of wear
- Reapply finishes or treatments as recommended by the manufacturer
- Remove any mold or mildew growth promptly
- Trim nearby vegetation to prevent moisture retention
