Shakes, typically cedar or other wood products, offer a natural, textured look that enhances curb appeal and provides durable weather protection. This guide covers the essential steps, materials, and best practices for installing wooden shakes on roofs or siding in a manner suitable for a general U.S. audience. Proper installation ensures longevity, better insulation, and a timeless aesthetic. Use the keywords “how to install shakes,” “wooden shakes installation,” and “cedar shakes roof” to guide your planning and searches.
Understanding Shakes And Their Benefits
Shakes are rough-cut wood shingles that create a rustic, dimensional surface. Unlike smooth-sawn shingles, shakes have varied edges and thicknesses, contributing to drainage and character. Key benefits include enhanced durability when properly installed, superior ventilation for attic spaces, and a classic appearance that complements many architectural styles. Cedar is popular due to its natural rot resistance and pleasant aging process. When choosing shakes, consider climate, exposure, and maintenance expectations.
Tools And Materials You’ll Need
- Wooden shakes (cedar recommended) in the desired thickness and size
- Roof nails or galvanized corrosion-resistant nails (size varies by shake thickness)
- Starter course to begin at the eave
- Underlayment or felt paper for weather protection
- Roofing cement or sealant for flashing and joints
- Chalk line, measuring tape, carpenter’s square
- Saw or utility knife for trimming shakes
- Pry bar or pry tool and a hammer
- Safety gear: gloves, eye protection, non-slip shoes, fall protection for roofs
- Nail spacing guide or manufacturer’s recommendations
Preparing The Surface
Thorough preparation ensures shakes install evenly and last longer. For roofing projects, inspect the roof deck for damage and replace any warped or rotten boards. Install a quality underlayment or felt paper to provide a moisture barrier underneath the shakes. On siding projects, ensure a clean, dry surface and repair any loose boards or gaps. A vertical or horizontal layout may influence how you lay the starter course and subsequent rows.
Choosing The Right Starter Course
The starter course establishes alignment and spacing. For roofs, start at the eave with the bottom edge extending slightly over the drip edge to promote drainage. On siding, begin at the bottom row and work upward, ensuring the top edge is level. Use a chalk line to maintain a straight baseline across the entire installation. The first row should be fixed securely to prevent shifting as more shakes are added.
Installing Cedar Shakes For Roofing
Begin with the starter row, then alternate rows to create a staggered, weather-tight seam. Place the first shake so the butt end sits toward the eave and nail through the strong side thickness. Maintain consistent fastener spacing; typically, two nails per shake are used at the top portion, while some installers add a third nail for larger shakes in high-wind regions. Leave a small gap between shakes to allow for natural expansion and drainage. Work side-to-side, ensuring each shake is flush with the starter and above the previous row to guide water away from the roof.
Key techniques:
- Keep nails flush with the surface to avoid splitting the wood.
- Avoid driving nails too close to the edge to prevent splitting in windy conditions.
- Trim shakes as needed around roof penetrations and edges for a clean finish.
Installing Cedar Shakes For Siding
Shakes installed on siding follow a similar staggered pattern but consider wall height and earth-contact details. Start with a solid starter plank or bottom row, ensuring alignment with adjacent surfaces and protecting against moisture intrusion at corners and openings. Apply shakes from bottom to top, each row offset from the one below to minimize joint visibility. Use corrosion-resistant nails or fasteners and ensure proper ventilation behind the siding to resist moisture buildup.
Spacing, Nailing, And Fastening Details
Proper spacing is essential for drainage and appearance. Common practice is to space shakes with a small gap, usually 1/8 to 1/4 inch, though manufacturer guidelines may vary. Nail placement typically occurs at the upper third of each shake, securing it without splitting. For high-wind zones, consider additional fasteners or longer nails. Do not overdrive nails; leave a slight crown to accommodate wood expansion and contraction. Periodically check alignment as more rows are added to maintain a uniform surface.
Flashing, Ventilation, And Weatherproofing
Flashing around chimneys, vents, and roof edges is critical to prevent leaks. Install continuous flashing and seal joints with a compatible sealant. Ensure proper ventilation behind shakes to prevent moisture buildup and wood rot. In siding installations, maintain proper gaps at corners and around penetrations to facilitate air flow and drainage. Regular maintenance, including cleaning and resealing as needed, extends the life of shakes.
Maintenance And Longevity
Shakes require periodic inspection and maintenance to maximize lifespan. Look for signs of rot, insect damage, or warping. Clean debris and organic growth that can trap moisture. Apply a protective sealant or stain every few years, following manufacturer recommendations for reapplication intervals. In areas with harsh weather, more frequent maintenance may be necessary. If significant damage occurs, replace affected shakes promptly to avoid compromising the entire installation.
Common Mistakes To Avoid
- Not allowing for wood expansion, leading to splits or buckling.
- Over-tightening nails, which can cause cracking.
- Inadequate ventilation, increasing moisture-related issues.
- Skipping starter courses or misaligning rows, resulting in a visible grid pattern.
- Using incompatible fasteners that corrode or react with wood.
When To Hire A Professional
While skilled DIYers can install shakes, complex roofing or siding projects, high elevations, or intricate detailing around penetrations may benefit from professional installation. A pro can ensure proper nailing schedules, flashing integration, and weatherproofing to extend the life of the shakes and protect the structure.