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Employees
Shake Shingles
| Cedar shake shingles are a common roof covering material, highly valued for their rustic appearance. However, in some climates, shake shingles are less than an ideal material to use. |  |
- The Denver climate is especially rough on shake shingles, due to
the intense sun (ultraviolet rays) and the arid conditions that predominate.
These conditions make the shingles brittle and dry, causing early cracking,
degradation, and increased susceptibility to hail/wind damage.
- In Denver the average life expectancy for a medium grade shake
(1/2" thickness) is 12 to 15 years, while the same material in the Oregon
may last 25 years or more! Hence, humid climates with significant annual
precipitation are more appropriate for shakes.
- The cost of a shake roof is 2 to 3 times that of an asphalt shingle
roof, yet the asphalt roof will outlast the shake roof by 5 to 10 years.
- Major hailstorms in Denver and resulting heavy insurance company
losses since 1990 have caused many insurors to re-think their position on
shake shingles. Some insurors will not insure a home with shake shingles
while others require very high deductibles.
- Shakes are being banned in some areas of the country due to
increased fire hazard. However, there are fire retardant treated
shingles available.
If you are planning to purchase a home with shake shingles, make sure to have it inspected by a professional to determine the remaining life expectancy. Also check with your insurance company to see if coverage is available and what the deductibles are.
Be aware that some neighborhoods have protective covenants, requiring shakes as the only approved roof covering material, forcing you to re-roof using a high priced material with limited life expectancy. Some Homeowner's Associations are proceeding to amend their covenants to allow alternate materials, while others are standing firm on their restrictions. Check with your real estate agent to see if there are restrictions.