Shingle Roof

Cedar Shake Roof vs Asphalt Shingle Roof Vs Synthetic Roof – Pros & Cons

When shopping for a new roof, many homeowners can do their own research with a multitude of information outlets available. The problem some homeowners run into that too many sources of information may offer too much or not enough of the most important information that comes to the carious roof replacement options. Here at Smart Roofing Inc. we decided to put together a comprehensive list of the pros and cons of cedar shake roofs (also cedar shingle roofs), asphalt shingle roofs, and synthetic roofs (also composite roofs). We will be discussing the opinion they hold with insurance companies and how the trends are regarding insuring a cedar roof, insuring a shingle roof, and insuring a synthetic roof. We will talk about the longevity of cedar roofs, the longevity of shingle roofs, and the longevity of synthetic roofs. Then we will list how each type of roof compares in terms of the cost of cedar shake roofs, the cost of asphalt shingle roofs, and the cost of composite roofs. With all that out of the way, let’s dig right into the details.

There is a lot of information to review and make the ultimate decision. Here is a chart summarizing the comparison of Cedar Shake Roof vs Asphalt Shingle Roof vs Composite Roof. For a more in-depth review, continue to the article below the chart.

	Cedar Shake	Asphalt Shingle	Composite Roof
Cost	$$$	$	$$$
Maintenance	High	Low	None – Low
Lifespan	20-30 years	20-30 years	30-50 years
Insurability	Varies, can be difficult, or not possible	Easily insurable	Easily insurable
Warranty	No manufacturer warranty	20-50 years	50 years

Cedar Shake Roofs or Cedar Shingle Roofs:

First off, what is the difference between cedar shake and cedar shingle? According to the Cedar Shake and Shingle Bureau, CSSB, a high-quality cedar shake features a rough split face and sawn back. This means they are rougher and in some ways more natural-looking. Cedar shakes are installed with a larger, usually 10″ exposure, meaning you can see 10″ of the cedar shake on your roof. Cedar shingles on the other hand are smooth sawn and architecturally uniform. This means they have a more smooth appearance. Cedar shingles are installed in a smaller, usually 5″ exposure.

Both cedar shakes and cedar shingles are made from the same wood, cedar, and both are natural materials. Due to material usage and labor involved, cedar shingles are often more expensive than cedar shakes. In turn, cedar shingles can last a few years more than cedar shakes if installed properly by a professional installer such as Smart Roofing Inc. Cedar was very popular due to the natural oils produced by the wood, which offered a unique appearance and great weather protection for the roof. However, over the last several years, the quality of cedar has decreased in some cases and better alternatives have entered the market, slowly phasing out cedar as one of the main roofing choices.

Pros of cedar shake roofs and cedar shingle roofs:

Appearance: Naturally beautiful cedar shake and cedar shingles have a rustic, timeless feel that is almost unmatched for homes with traditional or historic designs.
Environmental Concerns: Cedar is biodegradable, renewable, and sustainably harvested when sourced from providers rated with the CSSB, making them a “green” roof choice.
Durability: Cedar is naturally waterproof and UV resistant.

Cons of cedar shake roofs and cedar shingle roofs:

Cost: Medium to High. Cedar roofs can be fairly expensive, depending on the market conditions for the cedar materials.
Maintenance: Cedar roofs require regular inspections and maintenance consisting of repairs, cleaning, and possible treatment. Cedar roofs that are not maintained can degrade and develop moss growth and missing pieces that can lead to leaks.
Fire Risk: Unless specifically treated with fire-resistant chemicals, natural cedar shake is much more combustible than other roofing options. This is one of the issues that insurance companies have with insuring cedar shake roofs.
Durability: Cedar shake roofs can vary in quality, depending on the mill they were produced in. This can lead to durability issues, and when combined with our wetter climate, cedar shake can quickly warp, crack, or rot. Many cedar roofs are also prone to moss growth in elevations that do not experience much sunlight, degrading those roof elevations even faster.
Warranty: Since cedar is a natural material, there is no warranty provided on the cedar shakes or cedar shingles,
Lifespan: Cedar Shake is expected to last around 20-25 years in our climate with maintenance.
Insurability: More and more insurance companies are dropping their coverage of cedar shake roofs or simply not offering coverage for new owners of cedar shake roofs. This is due to the fire risks, the cost vs durability payoff, and the quick degradation of cedar.

Asphalt Shingle Roofs:

An asphalt shingle is the most common and widely used roofing material for residential properties. It is made up of a fiberglass base mat that is coated with waterproof asphalt, and topped with ceramic or mineral granules. The fiberglass offers strength and durability, the asphalt an additional layer of waterproofing and cohesion, and the granules offer the shingle color, texture, and extra weather protection. There are different styles of shingles, such as old school 3-tab, current architectural, and designer shingles, as well as different manufacturers, but in most cases the components are all the same.

Architectural shingles are the most popular due to their thicker, three-dimensional appearance that also adds extra durability. 3-tab shingles have been getting phased out by architectural shingles due to being inferior and new architectural shingles having a longer lifespan. Designer shingles mimic the look of high-end roofing materials such as slate or cedar. Because of the cost effectiveness of asphalt shingles, this roofing material is the first choice for many homeowners.

Pros of asphalt shingle roofs:

Appearance: Available in a wide range of colors, styles, and designs that do not fade color or change over time. Any aesthetic can be chosen to match a homeowner’s taste.
Cost: Low to Medium, depending on style and design choice. Asphalt shingle roofs are the most cost-effective option for a roof replacement.
Maintenance: Asphalt shingles are virtually maintenance free for the duration of their life expectancy.
Fire Resistance: Asphalt shingles are fiberglass based and offer a Class A fire rating – the highest level of fire resistance possible.
Durability: Most asphalt shingles have a wind rating up to 130mph and can hold up to freezes, beaming sunlight, and small hail. As a GAF Master Elite contractor, we at Smart Roofing Inc. can offer an unlimited wind warranty on Timberline HDZ shingles. All of the materials were manufactured to withstand the elements and keep your home waterproof. There is a standard manufacturing practice with control systems to ensure a uniform shingle that is free of defects every time.
Warranty: Manufacturers offer warranties between 25-50 years for shingle materials.
Lifespan: Shingle roofs have a standard lifespan between 20-30 years, depending on the style and design, as well as the climate conditions.
Insurability: Asphalt shingle roofs are the most common, the most cost effective, and relatively durable to all elements, making them extremely easy to insure. While a roof over 20 years old may need to be inspected, insurance has no problems writing policies to cover shingle roofs.

Cons of asphalt shingles:

Environmental Concerns: Since asphalt shingles are made from petroleum products and difficult to recycle, they are not considered green and have a more larger environmental footprint.
Heat Absorption: Some asphalt shingles can absorb more heat than other roofing materials, potentially increasing the temperature in the attic. This can be avoided with proper roofing ventilation and insulation and is a minor concern.
Installation Issues: Being the most common roofing material means that a lot more people believe they know how to install shingles, which can lead to issues. A professional roofing contractor can ensure proper nailing, water drainage, and waterproofing, where an inexperienced installed may not be as effective. This can cause damage to shingles, slipping or fallen shingles, or even make the roof more susceptible to wind damage.

Synthetic Roofs and Composite Roofs:

Synthetic roofs and composite roofs, what is the difference? The truth is, there is no difference. These are just different names for the same products, and are interchangeable as you will see on this list. They refer to a group of products derived from polymers or plastics, which in most cases can last longer and can mimic the appearance of cedar shake, slate, or tile very effectively. The two most common brand names for these composite or synthetic roofs are Brava Roof Tile, which offer all 3 types, shake, slate and tile, and DaVinci Roofscapes, which offer shake and slate. Here at Smart Roofing Inc., we are certified installers of both manufacturers, allowing us to offer the best choice for each and every home. If going with a cedar shake, natural slate, or clay tile is not a compatible option, this composite group of products offers the middle ground many homeowners are looking for. We will see why.

Pros of composite roofing products:

Appearance: Some brands have an almost indistinguishable similarity to natural cedar shake, especially some of the aged colors. The slate composite roofing products are also very similar in appearance to natural slate. With a variety of colors to choose from that will not fade, homeowners can find one that will match their home’s aesthetic and look great. While some worry about the products looking synthetic, most cannot tell the difference between real aged cedar and slate roofs and some colors of synthetic products.

Environmental Concerns: Most composite roofing products are manufactured from recycled plastic, meaning they do not have a large ecological footprint. These products, however, are not recyclable past their long lifespan.
Maintenance: Manufactured from polymers, composite roofs are resistant to cracking, warping, rotting, or moss growth, requiring essentially zero maintenance over their lifespan.
Fire Resistance: Made specifically with roofing in mind, these products often carry a Class C or even Class A fire resistance rating.
Durability: This is the biggest pro of synthetic roofing products. They were specifically engineered to withstand harsh weather conditions. Manufactured with strict control systems, these products are checked and tested to ensure proper products reach the homeowners. They often have a Class 4 impact resistance along with a Class C fire rating, making it one of the best materials to put on your roof. They have an expected lifespan of 50+ years, and will hold up to high winds, freezing winters, scorching summers, pounding rain, hail, and in worst cases fire.
Warranty: Limited lifetime warranties are usually standard from the most popular manufacturers for 50 years.
Lifespan: Synthetic and composite roof products have an expected lifespan of 50+ years.
Insurability: With a high fire resistance and hail impact rating, synthetic roofs are easy to insure and may even qualify homeowners for an insurance premium discount.

Cons of synthetic roofs and composite roofs:

Cost: Medium to High. Composite roofs can be pricey but fall right in line with natural cedar shingles. When their expected lifespan is taken into account, the investment pays off in the long run.
Appearance: Some homeowners are put off by the synthetic appearance.
Environmental Concerns: Synthetic roofing products are at this time not recyclable past their long lifespan.
Installation expertise: Composite roofing products need an experienced and professional roofing company to ensure proper installation, flashings, and intersections that will last for the long expected lifespan of the roof.

SMART Roofing, Inc. is a full-service roofing contractor. Certified by the Cedar Shake and Shingle Bureau (CSSB), a Preferred Installer of Brava Shake, Brava Slate, and Brava Spanish Tile, a Masterpiece Installer of DaVinci Shake and Davinci Slate, and a GAF Master Elite shingle installer, we have the experience and expertise you may need for all your roof replacement needs. From roof assessments and repairs to installations of virtually every type of new residential roof and commercial roof, our commitment to excellence, stellar customer service and exceptional results are the “SMART” roofing difference. Serving Chicago its surrounding suburbs. Contact the roofing experts at SMART Roofing, Inc. at (847) 797-0404 or fill out our Contact Us form to learn more about the different roofing products, or email us for your residential roof replacement needs.

Shingle Roof Replacement on Townhomes in Northbrook

When dealing with a shingle roof replacement on multi-family properties, guaranteeing a durable, visually appealing, and properly installed roof is a must. This ensures long-term protection and satisfaction for every resident. This shingle roof replacement in Northbrook replaced an older shingle with a new, durable GAF architectural shingle. With improved wind and impact resistance and a sophisticated, dimensional look, this new shingle roof enhances both performance and aesthetics. Multi-family buildings require high-quality materials and consistent quality of installation to maintain a uniform appearance while maximizing longevity. In addition to the new shingle roofing installation in Northbrook, we installed GAF new peel and stick modified bitumen roofing in low slope valleys for increased durability and waterproofing. With heat welded flat roof seams and new flashings, the entire shingle roof installation and flat roof system will last for decades, and each unit owner will be worry free.

Proper roof drainage is just as important as a durable roof, which is why this shingle roof replacement project also included new aluminum gutters in Northbrook. A well-designed gutter system efficiently directs water away from the structure, preventing foundation issues and exterior damage. Multi-family properties and townhomes rely on professionally installed roofs and gutters that protect multiple units from costly repairs, which is where our expertise and experience comes in. By combining architectural shingles, efficient flat roofing, and proper water drainage management, this project significantly improved the homeowner’s association and community value. Every element was carefully chosen to provide long-term performance and reduce the need for maintenance. Now, this multi-family association in Northbrook is fully equipped with new shingle roofing, new flat roofing, and new aluminum gutters to handle the elements while maintaining its polished, sophisticated look. Consistent communication and accommodation left every unit owner satisfied and impressed with their new shingle roofs.

SMART Roofing, Inc. is a full-service shingle and flat roofing contractor and GAF Master Elite contractor serving Northbrook and its surrounding Chicagoland suburbs. Select SMART Roofing, Inc. as your Northbrook, Glenview, Northfield, Winnetka, and Wilmette roofing contractor with plenty of experience with asphalt shingle roofs, shingle roof replacements, flat roofs, and aluminum gutters. From roof assessments and repairs to installations of virtually every type of new residential roof and commercial roof, our commitment to excellence, stellar customer service and exceptional results are the “SMART” roofing difference. Contact the roofing experts at SMART Roofing, Inc. at (847) 797-0404 to learn more about GAF roofing products and email us for your residential shingle roof replacement, metal roof replacement, and gutter replacement needs.

New Shingle Roof and Metal Roof Installation in La Grange

A high-quality, professionally installed roof is one of the best investments a homeowner can make. Our most recent shingle roof replacement, combined with a new standing seam metal roof, and new aluminum gutters in La Grange delivered on all aspects of durability and style. Architectural shingles provide a sleek, dimensional look alongside superior protection against all weather conditions that the Chicago area experiences. This new shingle roof also offers improved wind resistance, impact durability, and an extended lifespan. Along with the new standing seam metal roof and new aluminum gutters, this shingle roof installation enhances both curb appeal and long-term performance. Homeowners in La Grange can count on modern asphalt shingles to provide a cost-effective, low-maintenance roofing solution that stands up to the elements.

What tied this entire roof replacement project together is the standing seam metal roof installation in La Grange, adding a modern touch to the front elevation of the home for enhanced durability and a sophisticated look. A metal roof in La Grange offers exceptional longevity and energy efficiency, making it a SMART choice for homeowners looking to upgrade their homes. To complete the project, we installed new aluminum gutters in La Grange, ensuring proper drainage and long-term protection against water damage. Combining shingles, metal roofing, and upgraded gutters creates a well-rounded system that boosts both the function and the aesthetics for any home.

SMART Roofing, Inc. is a full-service shingle and metal roofing contractor and GAF Master Elite contractor serving La Grange and its surrounding Chicagoland suburbs. Select SMART Roofing, Inc. as your La Grange, La Grange Park, Riverside, Western Springs, and Willowbrook roofing contractor with plenty of experience with asphalt shingle roofs, shingle roof replacements, metal roofs, standing seam roofs, and aluminum gutters. From roof assessments and repairs to installations of virtually every type of new residential roof and commercial roof, our commitment to excellence, stellar customer service and exceptional results are the “SMART” roofing difference. Contact the roofing experts at SMART Roofing, Inc. at (847) 797-0404 to learn more about GAF roofing products and email us for your residential shingle roof replacement, metal roof replacement, and gutter replacement needs.

Smart Roofing Works with Rebuilding Together, Again!

We had another amazing opportunity to give back to one of the many communities that have made SMART roofing what it is over the last 30+ years! We have been working with Rebuilding Together, a premier nonprofit community revitalization organization, which helps renovate homes for people in need. This year’s home was in Wilmette, Illinois where we completed this shingle roof replacement. We worked along with Beacon Building Supply and went right to work on putting a new shingle roof on this home.

A shingle roof is one of the most important components of a home, offering reliable protection against the elements while enhancing curb appeal. Known for their versatility and affordability, asphalt shingles are designed to withstand harsh weather conditions, from heavy rain to high winds. Modern asphalt shingles also provide excellent insulation, improving energy efficiency and helping homeowners save on utility costs. With proper installation and maintenance, a shingle roof delivers long-lasting durability, making it a trusted choice for homeowners everywhere. That is why we do what we do, and this new shingle roof in Wilmette was a necessary project for this homeowner.

Working with Rebuilding Together was a great example of the work that we at Smart Roofing Inc. are so proud to showcase. We are glad that the homeowner gets to enjoy her new shingle roof in Wilmette, and we would like to thank Rebuilding Together for the opportunity, and Beacon Building Supply for working with us and providing the materials. This is also a thank you to our great crews, without which none of this would be possible.

SMART Roofing, Inc. is a full-service roofing contractor and GAF roofing contractor serving Wilmette and its surrounding Chicagoland suburbs. Select SMART Roofing, Inc. as your Wilmette, Winnetka, Lake Forest, Highland Park, and Northfield roofing contractor with plenty of experience with asphalt shingle roofs, shingle roof replacement, and shingle roof installation. From roof assessments and repairs to installations of virtually every type of new residential roof and commercial roof, our commitment to excellence, stellar customer service and exceptional results are the “SMART” roofing difference. Contact the roofing experts at SMART Roofing, Inc. at (847) 797-0404 to learn more about DaVinci roofing products, or email us for your residential shingle roof replacement needs.

Cedar Shake Replacement with Asphalt Shingles in Glenview

This cedar roof replacement in Glenview with an upgrade to a new shingle roof is a smart investment. Architectural asphalt shingles offer several advantages over traditional cedar shakes, including enhanced durability and lower maintenance. Unlike cedar, which can warp, split, and require frequent upkeep, shingles are designed to withstand harsh weather conditions, providing long-lasting protection for your home. Additionally, shingles are more resistant to fire and pests, offering increased safety and peace of mind for homeowners in Glenview.

A shingle roof replacement in Glenview also enhances your home’s aesthetic appeal with a wide variety of colors and styles to choose from. Whether you’re updating an older home or building new, architectural shingles can mimic the rich texture of cedar shake while providing the modern benefits of a new shingle roof. With a roof replacement in Glenview, you’ll enjoy a beautiful, low-maintenance roof that adds value and curb appeal to your property for years to come.

This shingle roof we installed in Glenview is extra special because it will provide even more protection for the savvy homeowner, who decided to install GAF Timberline Ultra HDZ shingles. These extra thick and durable shingles offer additional life expectancy as well as a more sophisticated shadow line for additional depth.

SMART Roofing, Inc. is a full-service roofing contractor and GAF contractor serving Glenview and its surrounding Chicagoland suburbs. Select SMART Roofing, Inc. as your Glenview, Northfield, Wilmette, Winnetka, and Morton Grove roofing contractor with plenty of experience with asphalt shingle roofs, cedar shake roof replacement, and shingle roof installation. From roof assessments and repairs to installations of virtually every type of new residential roof and commercial roof, our commitment to excellence, stellar customer service and exceptional results are the “SMART” roofing difference. Contact the roofing experts at SMART Roofing, Inc. at (847) 797-0404 to learn more about GAF roofing products, visit gaf.com or email us for your residential shingle roof replacement needs.

Shingle Roof Replacement in Evanston

Are you in Evanston and considering a roof replacement? Upgrading your old shingle roof with new architectural shingles can significantly enhance the look and durability of your home. Here at SMART Roofing we specialize in shingle roof replacement and shingle roof installation, offering top-quality Owens Corning Duration shingles for homes in Evanston and surrounding areas like Oak Park, Wilmette, Winnetka, and Northfield. This beautiful home in Evanston that we replaced the shingle roof on with new asphalt, architectural shingles is a perfect example of upgrading the aesthetic and function of your roof. With this Evanston roof replacement with Duration shingles in Colonial Slate color, the showcased home makes the choice easy.

Replacing your old shingle roof with Owens Corning Duration shingles provides various benefits. These architectural shingles are designed for superior performance and durability, offering excellent protection against harsh weather conditions. The advanced SureNail Technology provides outstanding gripping power, ensuring your new roof can withstand high winds and heavy rains. Additionally, these shingles come with a robust warranty, giving you peace of mind for years to come.

For homeowners in older, wood-frame houses, particularly in historic areas like Evanston and Oak Park, the installation of new plywood is often necessary during a roof replacement. This is due to the existing decking having spaces that used to be acceptable 20+ years ago, but are not anymore. Some of these homes also have existing cedar shake under a layer of shingles, which needs to be removed to allow proper installation of a new asphalt shingle roof during a shingle roof replacement. This step ensures a solid foundation for the new shingles, enhancing the overall structural integrity of your home, and guaranteeing a long lifespan for your new shingle roof. Our expert team at SMART Roofing always provides precise shingle installation, in this case carefully maneuvering around existing copper chimney flashings and siding to install proper roof-to-wall flashings. These flashings are crucial for waterproofing, preventing leaks, and protecting your home from water damage.

Shingle roofs work by creating a layered barrier against the elements. Each shingle overlaps the one below it, effectively channeling water off the roof and into the gutters. Proper installation is key to maximizing the lifespan and performance of your shingle roof. Our experienced professionals make sure that every shingle is placed correctly during a shingle roof installation, and that all flashings are installed to provide optimal waterproofing, particularly around critical areas like chimneys and roof valleys.

Choosing Owens Corning Duration shingles for your roof replacement in Evanston is a wise investment. These shingles not only enhance the aesthetic appeal of your home but also provide long-lasting protection. Contact SMART Roofing today to schedule a consultation for your shingle roof installation. Let us help you upgrade your wood-frame house with a durable, beautiful new roof that will stand the test of time.

SMART Roofing, Inc. is a full-service roofing contractor and Owens Corning contractor serving Evanston and its surrounding Chicagoland suburbs. Select SMART Roofing, Inc. as your Evanston, Oak Park, Wilmette, Winnetka, and Northfield roofing contractor with plenty of experience with asphalt shingle roofs and shingle roof replacements. From roof assessments and repairs to installations of virtually every type of new residential roof and commercial roof, our commitment to excellence, stellar customer service and exceptional results are the “SMART” roofing difference. Contact the roofing experts at SMART Roofing, Inc. at (847) 797-0404 to learn more about Owens Corning roofing products, visit owenscorning.com, or email us for your residential shingle roof replacement needs.

Asphalt Shingle Roof Replacement in Arlington Heights

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Replacing shingle roofs and being a trustworthy local roofing contractor is what got us to where we are now, and it is still one of our main points of focus. The original owners and project managers are still here to ensure that the quality of work is just as good as it was when we were beginning our roofing journey. These shingle roof replacements in Arlington Heights, where a lot of our crew lives, showcase the asphalt shingle expertise we can provide to our clients’ homes.

Shingle roofs are some of the most common roof types out there, and every roofer has worked on at least a handful of them in their career. After being in business for 30 years, Smart Roofing has worked on thousands of shingle roof replacements, which has allowed us to gather experience on all sorts of details, flashings, and design choices. Working on shingle roofs from Palatine, to Buffalo Grove, to Vernon Hills, we have experience working with all types of buildings. Whether the roof needs just a shingle replacement or gutters installed to promote proper water drainage, we have done it all, and continue happily sharing our knowledge with homeowners.

These roof replacements in Arlington Heights combined all of the elements we are so familiar with. GAF Timberline HDZ shingles in Weathered Wood color were the primary focus. The final touch on both of these Arlington Heights homes were the aluminum gutters and oversized downspouts installed by our crews, which ensured that any water that lands of the roof drains properly away from the home. We are very proud of being the local roofing contractor in Arlington Heights, where many of us call home, and enjoy helping our neighbors with their shingle roof replacements.

SMART Roofing, Inc. is a full-service roofing contractor serving Arlington Heights and its surrounding northern Chicago suburbs. Select SMART Roofing, Inc. as your Arlington Heights, Palatine, Buffalo Grove, or Vernon Hills roofing contractor with plenty of experience with shingle roofs and gutters. From roof assessments and repairs to installations of virtually every type of new residential roof and commercial roof, our commitment to excellence, stellar customer service and exceptional results are the “SMART” roofing difference. Contact the roofing experts at SMART Roofing, Inc. at (847) 797-0404 to learn more about GAF roofing products, visit GAF.com, or email us for your residential metal roofing or commercial metal roofing needs.

Bolingbrook Shingle Roof Replacement

The roofing experts at Smart Roofing, Inc. recently did a roof replacement in Bolingbrook. The aging asphalt shingle roof was more cost effective to replace with all new accessories as opposed to doing roof repairs. From necessary roof deck replacement, to new galvanized steel chimney flashings, new bathroom vents, and a new roof ventilation system, to new gutters and RainDrop gutter guards, we were able to install a whole new GAF asphalt shingle roof system. All the details matter with a new roof, and we pride ourselves on using only the best materials available.

As part of our full service roof replacement, we installed a new roof ventilation system, which is essential to extending the life of your roof, especially when combined with the GAF System Plus warranty. The existing roof plywood had to be replaced and a space was cut in to allow air to circulate. We then installed the GAF Cobra Snow Country Advanced ridge vent, and covered it with TimberTex, a reinforced hip and ridge asphalt shingle. This new shingle roof in Bolingbrook is now covered by a 50-year warranty, and we at Smart Roofing, Inc. were more than happy to help the homeowner have peace of mind when it comes to the roof.

SMART Roofing, Inc. is a full service roofing contractor serving Bolingbrook and its surrounding suburbs. Select SMART Roofing, Inc. as your Bolingbrook Roofing Contractor. From roof assessments and repairs, to installations of virtually every type of new residential roof and commercial roof, our commitment to excellence, stellar customer service and exceptional results are the “SMART” roofing difference. Contact the roofing experts at SMART Roofing, Inc. at (847) 797-0404, to learn more about GAF roof products, or email us for your residential or commercial roofing needs.

Replacing an Old Cedar Shake Roof in Kildeer

What a difference 3 days can make when replacing your aged cedar shake roof. That is exactly what happened when we recently replaced this old cedar shake roof in Kildeer, IL with new designer GAF Camelot II shingles. With a bigger exposure than cedar shake, the Camelot II shingle provides a refined look that is not too far from the appearance of natural slate or cedar shake. Open copper valleys and new copper flashings made this roof shine bright in comparison to the dull and deteriorated shake that was installed before.

Cedar shake may look nice when it is initially installed, but that appearance quickly degrades into shades of gray and brown. As time passes those colors fade even more, and the cedar shake begins to disintegrate. The new Camelot II shingle roof in Kildeer will not change colors until almost the end of its life, and even then it is never as dramatic as the color change in cedar shake. This is another reason why many homeowners are opting to replace their aged cedar shake roofs with new shingle roofs. While offering almost double the life expectancy, much lower costs, and a sophisticated look, it is a no brainer. Many homeowners are also choosing to upgrade a standard shingle to the designer choice, which upgrades the look of their home even more. That is what this homeowner decided to do when we installed a new shingle roof in Kildeer. The results speak for themselves.

What do you think?

SMART Roofing, Inc. is a full-service roofing contractor serving Kildeer and its surrounding suburbs. Select SMART Roofing, Inc. as your Kildeer Cedar Shake and Shingle Roofing Contractor with plenty of experience with wood shake and asphalt shingle roofs. From roof assessments and repairs to installations of virtually every type of new residential roof and commercial roof, our commitment to excellence, stellar customer service, and exceptional results are the “SMART” roofing difference. Contact the roofing experts at SMART Roofing, Inc. at (847) 797-0404, to learn more shingle roofs, visit gaf.com, or email us for your residential or commercial roofing needs.

Cedar Shake Roofs in the Chicagoland Climate

Cedar shakes are some of the more durable and visually appealing roof coverings. At least that was the case before architectural shingles and synthetic cedar shakes were introduced, with an expected lifespan the same, or in many cases longer than cedar shake. The main reason behind this is the Chicagoland climate, and the various weather extremes and high humidity.

As with any wood when it gets wet, it needs ample time and air quality to dry out, otherwise it can start rotting. While cedar is very resistant to moisture, cedar shake roofing still tends to stay wet longer than preferred, which leads to premature failure of cedar shake roofs. We have seen this happen time and time again. Even with proper installation, which includes using the correct stainless steel fasteners to prevent rust issues, proper felt and cedar breather underlayments to promote the drying process, and correct spacing for the cedar shakes themselves, many cedar roofs will only last about 20-30 years. With no manufacturer warranty due to being a natural product, this falls short of the recent roof life expectancy standard. The amount of rain, snow, and humidity are the main culprits. Since many of our Chicago summer days can stay above 80% humidity, when combined with a few rainy days, cedar shakes can stay wet for weeks on end. While the top of the cedar shake may appear dry, the core and underside of the cedar shake is often wet. Take into account the cloud coverage, and some days where we get no sunlight at all, and you have everything to need to make you cedar shake roof rot.

This takes us to the next point, the cost of cedar shake roofing as compared to longer lasting, or less expensive alternatives. The biggest competitor with cedar shake roofs are good old asphalt shingles, but with a new profile. While the old 3-tab shingles did not expect to look as nice or last as long as cedar shake roofs, new architectural shingles definitely will do both. With a thicker shingle, an expected lifespan of 30 years, and a manufacturer warranty, shingles are a great option. No matter the amount of rain, snow, sun, or humidity, asphalt shingles will never rot or decay due to being wet. Asphalt does not absorb moisture, and the fiberglass mat that compromises new architectural shingles adds an extra layer of durability. With an additional layer, these architectural shingles have more definition to match the depth of cedar shake, and many homeowners are finding that they are great substitutes for their old cedar shake roofs that need to be replaced. With a cost that is much lower, a new shingle roof is a very good alternative when looking at a cedar shake roof replacement.

The other option when replacing an aging cedar roof, and one that is gaining a lot of popularity, are synthetic cedar shakes. From very popular manufacturers such as Brava and DaVinci, these products are top of the line. With a variety of color choices, you can be sure that your new synthetic roof will look just like the real cedar shake, at different points of the aging color cycle. Textures that match real cedar shake, and variable synthetic cedar shake sizes also ensure that your new roof will look exactly like cedar shake, while lasting much much longer. When people hear synthetic, they assume these products are cheap plastic that will fall apart due to the heat or cold. That could not be further from the truth. Synthetic cedar shakes are most often made from composite roofing materials that will last upwards of 50 years, and the manufacturers of these products provide a 50-year warranty to back up their claim. Since composite materials do not absorb water or moisture, there is no worry of these roofing shakes rotting. Having the colors blended into the composite material also guarantees that your new synthetic roof will look just as good in the first year, as it will on year 50. With a price point very similar to many real cedar shakes, synthetic cedar shake roofs are taking over, and rightfully so.

As with any house changing decision, we encourage all homeowners to do their own research, and find what works best for them and their home. If you would like us to inspect your roof, provide an estimate, or have any questions regarding cedar shake roofs, shingle roofs, or synthetic roofs, feel free to contact the roofing experts at Smart Roofing Inc. at (847) 797-0404 or email us at contactus@smartroofers.com

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Please feel free to call us at 847.797.0404 or email to contactus@smartroofers.com

Please feel free to call us or email: 847.797.0404 contactus@smartroofers.com

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