The Pros and Cons of Shake Siding for Your Home

Let’s talk about one of the most important style and performance decisions you’ll make for your home: your exterior siding. It’s not just about looks, it's about protecting your home from the elements, insulating it properly, and adding that all important curb appeal. The right siding can transform an average looking house into a neighborhood gem.
Enter shake siding, a time honored favorite among homeowners who love the rustic charm of wood combined with reliable durability. Whether you’ve spotted a cozy cottage wrapped in cedar shaker shingles or a modern farmhouse using synthetic shakes for flair, this siding type has a distinct texture and warmth that vinyl just can’t compete with.
If you’re looking for a timeless option that combines natural charm with functional benefits, shaking shingle house siding might be the solution. But like any material, shake siding has its strengths and drawbacks.
In this guide, we’re diving deep into everything you need to know about shake shingle siding. We’ll explore its types, pros and cons, and how it stacks up against other siding materials like vinyl and fiber cement. By the end, you’ll have a solid foundation to make a confident decision for your home’s exterior.

What is Shake Siding?

Shake Shingle Siding is a type of exterior cladding typically made from split logs, giving it a rustic, textured look. Unlike smooth, uniform siding options, it retains the natural grain of the wood for a more organic and unique appearance. Although traditionally crafted from cedar, pine, or redwood, modern houses with siding now include synthetic alternatives like vinyl or fiber cement for added versatility.

Shaker Shingles vs. Traditional Wood Siding

One of the main distinctions between shake shingle siding and traditional wood siding lies in texture and installation. Shake shingles are thicker and rougher, offering a rugged aesthetic that’s ideal for craftsman or coastal-style homes. Traditional wood siding, on the other hand, is smoother and more uniform, better suited for modern or colonial designs.

Types of Shake Siding

Not all shakes on house siding are created equal. Here’s a breakdown of the most common types and their unique characteristics:

Hand Split Shakes

These are the OG of shake shingle siding split by hand from wood logs, often cedar. What makes them special is their rough, rugged surface. They’re uneven, full of character, and ideal for homes aiming for that historic, craftsman, or cottage look.
Hand split shakes are best when you want your siding to tell a story where you see every natural imperfection, every line and knot in the wood. They’re often used on traditional homes or as accent walls in modern houses for that contrast of old and new.

Taper Sawn Shakes

Taper sawn shakes are the middle ground between rustic and refined. They’re sawn on both sides, which gives them a thinner, more uniform look than hand split shakes but still preserves a bit of natural texture. If your house has a blend of modern and rustic elements, these shakes strike the perfect balance.
They’re smoother, which means they may shed water better and require a little less maintenance.

Resawn Shakes

These shaker shingles have one rough sawn face and one smooth back, giving you the best of both worlds. The rough side faces out for that textured look, while the smooth side fits neatly against your house, providing a snug fit and improved durability.
Great for a wide range of architectural styles, resewn shakes are especially popular in transitional homes that mix different eras or materials.

The Pros of Shake Siding for Your Home

What makes it so popular? Here are the key advantages:

Aesthetic Appeal

It gives homes a timeless, natural charm. Its textured surface and variety of finishes make it a favorite for coastal, craftsman, or rustic-style houses. For homeowners looking to stand out, shakes offer a unique look that can’t be achieved with more uniform materials like vinyl.
Think of those quaint beach houses with weathered shakes, or mountain cabins that blend right into the forest. Shaker siding works with nature, not against it.
Example: Imagine a cedar shake home, painted in warm gray tones, blending beautifully with natural surroundings.

Durability

High quality wood shakes, especially cedar, are incredibly durable. Cedar contains natural oils that resist rot, decay, and pests. With regular maintenance, your shaker siding can easily last 30 years or more. Synthetic versions can last even longer up to 50 years with almost no maintenance.
Durability doesn’t just mean longevity; it also means the siding holds up well through daily wear, sun exposure, and impact.

Adds Value & Design Flexibility

Houses with shake siding often sell at a higher value, thanks to their unique appearance and quality materials. It’s a design choice that stands out in listings and in person. Even if you don’t go all-in, adding shakes to gables or dormers can elevate the whole house.
Bonus? Custom layout options. Unlike traditional siding that comes in large, fixed panels, shakes are installed piece by piece meaning you can get really creative. Think layered textures, staggered placements, or even a woven look.

Weather Resistance

Shaker shingles can hold its own in many weather conditions. Properly installed and treated, wood shakes resist wind, rain, snow, and extreme temperatures. That’s why you’ll find them in coastal areas, mountains, and everything in between.
Just remember, if you live in an area with heavy rainfall or humidity, it’s crucial to use treated shakes and apply water resistant sealants.

Natural Insulation

One lesser known perk of shake shingles and siding is its insulation properties. The natural wood helps regulate indoor temperatures, keeping your home cooler in summer and warmer in winter, which could lower your energy bills.

Customizable Appearance

It can be stained, painted, or left untreated to fit any aesthetic. Whether you want a bright white coastal look or a deep, woodsy finish, shakes offer versatility.

Excellent Sound Insulation

You might not expect this, but shakes can actually help reduce noise. Their thick, overlapping design naturally dampens outside sounds like traffic or neighborhood commotion. If peace and quiet matter to you, it’s a surprising plus.

The Cons of Shake Siding

While there are plenty of benefits, it does come with a few challenges. Here’s what to consider:

Premium Price Tag with Artisan Level Labor

Shaker shingles and siding isn’t your average weekend DIY project, it's a high end investment that blends material quality with artisan craftsmanship. Unlike vinyl or aluminum siding that snaps into place quickly, each shake is individually installed by hand, often in intricate, layered patterns that demand precision and time. This meticulous approach creates a stunning, one of a kind finish but it comes at a cost.
Not only are premium materials like cedar more expensive upfront, but the labor to install shake shingle siding can significantly raise your total project cost. If you're dreaming of custom layouts or color blends, be ready to add more to the budget. It’s a luxury look that delivers big on charm and durability, but it’s definitely not the budget-friendly option.

Ongoing Maintenance

Let’s keep it real: if you’re not a fan of home maintenance, shaking shingle house siding might drive you a little nuts. To keep it looking great and performing well, you’ll need to:

• Wash off dirt, algae, and mildew yearly
  
• Stain or reseal every 3 to 5 years
  
• Keep an eye out for cracked or curling shakes
  

If you skip this care, your siding might start fading unevenly especially on walls that get more sun and those lovely textured surfaces can become homes for moss or even insects.

Moisture and Fire Risks

Untreated or poorly maintained shakes can be vulnerable to moisture damage, including rotting and mold. Additionally, as a natural wood product, it poses a greater fire risk than non combustible materials like fiber cement.

Repairs and Wildlife Surprises

Shake shingle house siding is tough, but it’s not invincible. The biggest challenge? Matching repairs. If a few shakes get damaged, replacing them with exact matches (especially if the wood has aged or changed color) can be tricky.
Also, don’t be shocked if you find birds or squirrels nesting behind loose shakes on the house, or even bees building tiny hives in the gaps. It’s rare, but not unheard of.

Too Rustic for Some Buyers

One more thing to consider: not everyone loves the rugged look. While you might be obsessed with the natural charm of hand split shakes, some home buyers prefer a sleek, modern aesthetic. If resale is a major factor for you, consider blending shake accents with other more mainstream materials.

Pest Susceptibility

Shake shingle siding, especially if untreated, can attract pests such as termites or carpenter ants. Proper preventive care, such as sealing and insect treatments, is crucial.

Comparing Shake Siding to Other Siding Options

To help you make an informed decision, here’s how shaker shingles and siding compares to other popular materials:

Shake vs. Vinyl Siding

• Cost: Vinyl is cheaper and easier to install, while shake is a premium option.
  
• Maintenance: Vinyl requires less upkeep, but it lacks the authentic charm of natural wood.
  
• Appearance: It offers a rich texture and timeless appeal that vinyl can’t fully replicate.
  

Shake vs. Wood Siding

• Texture: Its rugged look contrasts with traditional wood siding’s smooth finish.
• Longevity: Both require regular maintenance, but cedar shakes tend to last longer than untreated wood siding.

Shake vs. Fiber Cement Siding

• Durability: Fiber cement is fire-resistant and low-maintenance, while shake shingles siding offers less fire protection but greater natural beauty.
  
• Cost: Fiber cement is often more affordable in the long run due to reduced upkeep.
  

Myths & Misconceptions About Shake Siding

It has been around for centuries, but with that legacy comes a fair share of myths, some of which might scare off potential homeowners for no good reason. Let’s separate the facts from fiction so you can make an informed decision without getting caught up in old school hearsay.

Shake Shingles and Siding is Always High Maintenance

You’ve probably heard that shaking shingle house siding is a maintenance nightmare. And while it’s true that natural wood shakes require upkeep, modern shake options especially vinyl or fiber cement versions offer the same charming appearance with way less hassle. Even natural cedar shakes on the house today come pre-treated to resist moisture, mold, and insects, meaning your once every few years maintenance routine isn’t nearly as painful as it sounds.

Shaker Siding Isn’t Durable

Another common misconception is that shakes are fragile or won’t hold up over time. But properly maintained cedar can last 30 to 50 years. And synthetic shakes? We’re talking even longer. Fiber cement shakes, for instance, are designed to endure everything from storms to fire threats.

Shake Siding Isn’t Fire Safe

True, untreated wood isn’t the most fire resistant material. But that’s not the whole story. Fire retardant treatments and modern building codes have made wood shakes on houses safer than ever. Plus, synthetic options like fiber cement offer a great alternative if fire resistance is a high priority.

Shake Siding Only Works on Old or Rustic Homes

Not anymore! While shakes are iconic on Cape Cod homes and cozy cottages, today’s architects and designers are blending them with modern materials, think shake accents on contemporary builds, or mix-and-match siding styles. Shakes are now just as at home on a trendy modern farmhouse as they are on a classic lake house.

Revamp Your Home with Shake Siding

It is a versatile and stylish option that combines natural beauty with durability. While it requires a higher investment and regular upkeep, the benefits far outweigh the challenges for many homeowners. Whether you’re building a new home or remodeling, shaker shingle siding can transform your property into a warm, inviting retreat.
Interested in exploring your options further? Reach out to local experts or contractors familiar with its installations. The right decision starts with understanding your unique needs.

FAQs

How often should you maintain shake shingle siding for durability?

Wood shake siding should be cleaned once or twice a year and resealed or stained every 3 to 5 years to maintain its beauty and longevity. Synthetic shakes require less frequent care; just an annual rinse is often enough.

Is shake siding good for all climates?

It can be used in most climates, but it's ideal in drier areas. In humid or rainy regions, proper installation and maintenance (like sealing and regular cleaning) are crucial. Fiber cement shakes are a great alternative in fire-prone or wet climates.

What’s the best material for it?

Cedar is the top natural choice due to its natural oils and resistance to decay. For lower maintenance and fire resistance, fiber cement or vinyl shakes are excellent options.

Can It be painted or stained?

Yes! Wood shakes can be painted or stained in a variety of colors. Staining enhances the natural grain, while painting offers a smooth, solid finish. Just remember to use breathable finishes to avoid trapping moisture.

How long does shake siding typically last?

Natural cedar can last 30 to 50 years with proper care. Synthetic options like fiber cement or vinyl can last even longer, often up to 60 years or more.

Summary

Shake siding offers a unique blend of rustic charm and practical durability, making it a popular choice for many homeowners. While it enhances curb appeal and provides a natural aesthetic, it also requires regular maintenance to preserve its condition. By understanding both the benefits and challenges of it, you can make an informed decision that suits your home's style and maintenance preferences.

About Team Kelly Construction

Team Kelly Construction is a dedicated group of professionals committed to providing high quality craftsmanship and exceptional service. With years of experience in the industry, we specialize in a wide range of construction and remodeling services, including roofing, siding, and custom home projects. Our team prioritizes customer satisfaction by working closely with homeowners to bring their vision to life while ensuring durability and lasting value. At Team Kelly Construction, we believe in combining superior materials with attention to detail to create spaces that homeowners can be proud of.