Cedar shake delivers a distinctive, natural look that's especially popular in the Pacific Northwest, but tightening Wildland-Urban Interface fire codes have pushed many homeowners toward Class A fire-rated treated cedar or composite "shake-look" alternatives.
Cedar shake typically costs $16,000 to $32,000 installed (national average around $21,000) and lasts 25 to 40 years with regular maintenance — without upkeep, lifespan can drop to 15-20 years. Untreated cedar shake is increasingly restricted or banned in Wildland-Urban Interface (WUI) fire zones; Class A fire-rated treated cedar remains allowed but carries a real cost premium and, in some markets, higher insurance rates.
As wildfire risk has driven building code changes across much of the West, many jurisdictions now require Class A fire-rated roofing in WUI-designated zones — untreated cedar shake does not meet this standard on its own. Fire-retardant-treated cedar shake that achieves a Class A rating is available, but the treatment adds real cost, and the rating needs periodic reverification in some jurisdictions.
"Shake-look" architectural asphalt shingles have improved enough that many homeowners choose them over real cedar specifically to sidestep the fire-code question and the higher maintenance cedar requires — moss/algae treatment, periodic re-oiling, and inspection for splitting are all part of cedar's ongoing maintenance that composite doesn't need.
Outside WUI-designated zones, and for homeowners who specifically want the authentic material (common on historic Pacific Northwest homes), properly maintained cedar shake remains a legitimate premium roofing choice.
For an average 2,000-2,400 sqft roof; add roughly 30-35% for Class A fire-treated cedar.
It depends on your jurisdiction. Many Wildland-Urban Interface (WUI) fire zones now require Class A fire-rated roofing, which untreated cedar shake doesn't meet — check with your local building department. Fire-retardant-treated cedar that achieves Class A rating remains an option where allowed.
Shakes are split (not sawn), giving a more rustic, uneven texture; shingles are sawn on both sides for a smoother, more uniform appearance. Shakes generally cost slightly more due to the hand-splitting labor.
Periodic moss/algae treatment (especially in wet climates), inspection for splitting or curling shakes, and occasionally re-oiling to prevent drying and cracking. Expect meaningfully more maintenance than asphalt shingle or metal.
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