Who this guide is for
- Homeowners drawn to a textured, traditional siding
- People comparing shakes against lap or other siding
- Renovators planning exposure and coursing patterns
- Anyone briefing an installer on shake or shingle siding
Shakes versus shingles
Shakes are thicker, often split for a rugged texture, while shingles are sawn thinner for a more uniform, refined look. Both are applied in overlapping courses, but they read differently on a wall. Choosing between them sets the character of the facade.
Exposure and coursing
Exposure is how much of each shingle is left showing below the course above, and it controls both the look and how many layers of overlap protect the wall. Coursing patterns, straight, staggered or decorative, add to the design. Plan exposure and pattern together for a consistent result.
- Exposure sets the visible depth of each course
- More overlap generally means more weather protection
- Coursing patterns add character to the facade
- Keep exposure and lines consistent across the wall
Weathering and finish
Natural cedar shakes and shingles weather over time and may be left to silver, stained or otherwise finished, each with its own upkeep. The finish choice affects both look and maintenance. Plan the finishing and upkeep route as part of the decision.
The wall behind the shingles
Like any cladding, shakes and shingles depend on the barrier and, often, a drainage gap behind them to keep the wall dry, especially since they shed water across many small joints. The assembly is part of the plan. Coordinate the shingles with the wall build-up.
Installation and professionals
Coursing, exposure and the assembly behind affect both looks and durability, so a qualified installer experienced in shakes and shingles should do the work. Natural-material upkeep should be realistic. Requirements vary by location and project, and the assembly is not a place to cut corners.
Shake and shingle planning checklist
- 1Choose between rugged shakes and refined shingles
- 2Decide the exposure for look and overlap
- 3Plan the coursing pattern across the wall
- 4Keep exposure and course lines consistent
- 5Plan the finish and how the material will weather
- 6Coordinate the barrier and drainage gap behind
- 7Set realistic upkeep expectations for natural material
- 8Use an installer experienced in shakes and shingles
Common mistakes to avoid
- Treating shakes and shingles like flat lap siding
- Inconsistent exposure so course lines wander
- Ignoring how the natural material weathers and needs upkeep
- Forgetting the barrier and drainage behind the shingles
- Choosing a finish without planning its maintenance
- Using an installer unfamiliar with coursing
When to involve a professional
- Use an installer experienced in shake and shingle coursing
- Coordinate the wall assembly behind the shingles with a professional
- Plan realistic upkeep for the natural material
- Confirm finishing choices suit the wood and exposure
- Requirements vary by location and project; verify with your professionals
Frequently asked questions
Questions readers ask about this topic
What's the difference between shakes and shingles?
Shakes are thicker and often split for a rugged texture, while shingles are sawn thinner for a more uniform, refined look. Both are applied in overlapping courses on the wall, but they read differently, so the choice sets the facade's character.
What does exposure mean for shingle siding?
Exposure is how much of each shingle is left visible below the course above. It controls both the look and how many layers of overlap protect the wall, so planning exposure consistently is central to a good result.
Do cedar shakes need finishing?
Natural cedar weathers over time and may be left to silver, stained or otherwise finished, each with its own upkeep. The finishing choice affects both appearance and maintenance, so plan the finish and upkeep route as part of the decision.
What goes behind shake and shingle siding?
Like any cladding, shakes and shingles rely on the weather barrier and often a drainage gap behind them to keep the wall dry, especially as they shed water across many small joints. The assembly is part of the plan, not an afterthought.
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