Wood shakes (cedar shakes and cedar shingles) are the predominate roofing material in many neighborhoods of the Pacific Northwest and have been for many years. These materials are actually cut from Western Red Cedar Trees and look similar but are prepared in totally different ways. The shingles are sawn both sides and thinner at the butt than the shakes.
Cedar shakes are very common in the greater Seattle are and come in 2 styles (Heavy and Medium Grade).
- Medium Grade measures nominal ½ inch at the butt
- Heavy Grade measures nominal ¾ inch at the butt
- There is also a Jumbo Grade measuring 1 inch at the butt