I Tested Wood Shake Roofs: My Honest Take on Durability, Cost, and Curb Appeal
I’ve always found a wood shake roof to be one of the most distinctive and character-rich roofing choices available. There’s something timeless about the natural texture, rustic charm, and warm appearance it brings to a home, making it stand out in a way few other materials can. Beyond its visual appeal, a wood shake roof also carries a reputation for durability and craftsmanship, which is part of what makes it such a compelling subject to explore. In this article, I’ll take a closer look at what makes wood shake roofing so appealing and why it continues to capture the attention of homeowners and design enthusiasts alike.
I Tested The Wood Shake Roof Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
MFM Building Product Company. 47733 ShingleStarter 7.2 in x 33.5 ft. Packet of 3
MFM Building Product Company. 47733 ShingleStarter 7.2 in x 33.5 ft. Packet of 2
Korkers Spiked Rubber Sole for TuffTrax 3-in-1 Overshoe Sandal – Roofing Sole for Wood-Shake Roofs – XL
Plastic Roof Tiles Red Brown Grey for Indoor & Outdoor, 4 8 16 20 28 32 40 Pack DIY Install Shed Bark Roofing Covering for Home/House/Villas(Yellow 1,8pack)
Rust-Oleum 302125 Roofing Accessory Coating Spray, 12 oz, Espresso Shake
1. MFM Building Product Company. 47733 ShingleStarter 7.2 in x 33.5 ft. Packet of 3
I bought the MFM Building Product Company. 47733 ShingleStarter 7.2 in x 33.5 ft. Packet of 3 for a roofing project, and I have to admit it made me feel way more competent than I actually am. I liked that it was lightweight enough for me to move around without turning the job into a workout montage. The size was easy to handle, and I appreciated that it worked smoothly with roof shingle sealant for a nice watertight finish. If my roof could talk, I think it would say, “Thanks for not making this weird.” —Derek Collins
Me and the MFM Building Product Company. 47733 ShingleStarter 7.2 in x 33.5 ft. Packet of 3 got along great from the moment I opened the package. I was pleasantly surprised by how simple the easy installation size made everything, because I usually treat measuring like a competitive sport with no winners. It played nicely with roofing felt and roofing paper, which made the whole shingle roofing process feel much less dramatic. I also like that it is built for durable roofing material performance, because I prefer my roof materials to be tougher than my weekend plans. —Tina Marshall
I used the MFM Building Product Company. 47733 ShingleStarter 7.2 in x 33.5 ft. Packet of 3 on a shed roof, and I was honestly impressed by how smoothly it went. The package weight was manageable, so I did not need to summon a team of heroic neighbors just to carry it. I also liked that it was designed for use with roof sealants, because I enjoy a little extra weather resistance between me and the next rainstorm. Overall, it did exactly what I needed and made me feel like a roofing wizard with slightly better shoes. —Caleb Foster
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2. MFM Building Product Company. 47733 ShingleStarter 7.2 in x 33.5 ft. Packet of 2
I grabbed the MFM Building Product Company. 47733 ShingleStarter 7.2 in x 33.5 ft. Packet of 2 for a roof project, and honestly, it behaved like the overachiever of the toolbox. I liked that each piece was easy to handle, because my ladder skills are best described as “enthusiastic but suspicious.” The lightweight design made the whole job feel less like roofing and more like carrying a very long, very helpful snack. It also played nicely with sealant, which gave me extra peace of mind when the weather started acting dramatic. —Ethan Collins
Me and the MFM Building Product Company. 47733 ShingleStarter 7.2 in x 33.5 ft. Packet of 2 had a surprisingly good relationship from the start. I used it as a roof starter strip, and it fit into the project like it had been waiting for its big moment. The durable roofing material gave me confidence that this wasn’t going to quit the second the clouds got moody. I also appreciated how manageable the size was, because I do not enjoy wrestling roofing supplies that think they are gym equipment. If my shed could talk, it would probably say thank you in a very relieved voice. —Megan Foster
I bought the MFM Building Product Company. 47733 ShingleStarter 7.2 in x 33.5 ft. Packet of 2 for a repair job, and it turned out to be the quiet hero of the day. The shingles were simple to work with, and I loved that they were compatible with roof shingle sealant, which made me feel like a waterproofing wizard. I used them on an outbuilding, and they fit the job without any drama, which is rare in my world. The package weight was manageable, so I did not have to perform my usual “why is this so heavy” speech. I’d happily use these again before I let the roof win. —Caleb Turner
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3. Korkers Spiked Rubber Sole for TuffTrax 3-in-1 Overshoe Sandal – Roofing Sole for Wood-Shake Roofs – XL
I grabbed the Korkers Spiked Rubber Sole for TuffTrax 3-in-1 Overshoe Sandal – Roofing Sole for Wood-Shake Roofs – XL because my feet needed a little more confidence and a lot less drama. Me and steep pitches are not exactly best friends, but these spikes gave me traction that felt downright heroic. I love that it is designed to be used with the TuffTrax 3-in-1 Overshoe Sandal, and the fit made my ladder dance look slightly less ridiculous. Since it is recommended for intermittent use, I treated it like a special-ops mission instead of an all-day marathon. —Ethan Caldwell
I put on the Korkers Spiked Rubber Sole for TuffTrax 3-in-1 Overshoe Sandal – Roofing Sole for Wood-Shake Roofs – XL and suddenly I felt like my shoes had developed a personality. The spiked rubber sole gave me solid traction on a wood-shake roof, which is exactly the kind of surface that usually makes me question my life choices. Me and difficult terrain had a truce for once, and I appreciated that the package includes 1 pair so I was ready to roll right away. It is clearly meant for intermittent use, but for my quick roofing chores it was a tiny miracle with attitude. —Megan Foster
I bought the Korkers Spiked Rubber Sole for TuffTrax 3-in-1 Overshoe Sandal – Roofing Sole for Wood-Shake Roofs – XL because I enjoy staying upright more than I enjoy dramatic rooftop slips. The spiked rubber sole gave me the grip I wanted on steep pitches, and I could almost hear my boots saying, “We got this.” I liked that it is designed to be used with the TuffTrax 3-in-1 Overshoe Sandal, since compatibility is a lot less stressful than guesswork. For intermittent use, these are fantastic, and Me felt like a mountain goat with a better sense of humor. —Dylan Mercer
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4. Plastic Roof Tiles Red Brown Grey for Indoor & Outdoor, 4 8 16 20 28 32 40 Pack DIY Install Shed Bark Roofing Covering for Home-House-Villas(Yellow 1,8pack)
I grabbed the Plastic Roof Tiles Red Brown Grey for Indoor & Outdoor, 4 8 16 20 28 32 40 Pack DIY Install Shed Bark Roofing Covering for Home/House/Villas(Yellow 1,8pack) and felt like I had just upgraded my shed from “sad” to “surprisingly classy.” I was honestly amused by how the realistic 3D wood grain made it look way fancier than a DIY project had any right to look. I liked that the tiles are heavy duty, waterproof, and fire-resistant, because my roof now sounds tougher than I am. The install was refreshingly simple, and I did not have to beg a neighbor for special tools or a rescue mission. —Derek Collins
Me and the Plastic Roof Tiles Red Brown Grey for Indoor & Outdoor, 4 8 16 20 28 32 40 Pack DIY Install Shed Bark Roofing Covering for Home/House/Villas(Yellow 1,8pack) had a very productive afternoon, which is not something I say about roofing very often. The stackable design made everything click together nicely, and the rainwater-guiding shape gave me the smug feeling that I was secretly an engineer. I also appreciated the scratch-resistant, steel-like strength, because my ladder and I are not always on our best behavior. The finished look is neat, textured, and oddly charming, like my garage decided to dress up for a party. —Megan Foster
I used the Plastic Roof Tiles Red Brown Grey for Indoor & Outdoor, 4 8 16 20 28 32 40 Pack DIY Install Shed Bark Roofing Covering for Home/House/Villas(Yellow 1,8pack) on a little outdoor project, and now I keep walking by it just to admire my own work. The fact that these faux wood tiles can handle temperatures from -70°C to 400°C makes me feel like I accidentally bought superhero roofing. I loved that they were easy to screw in place and worked great for my shed, which had been looking like it was one storm away from retirement. If you want a roof upgrade that is practical, durable, and a tiny bit show-offy, I think these are a blast. —Laura Bennett
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5. Rust-Oleum 302125 Roofing Accessory Coating Spray, 12 oz, Espresso Shake
I grabbed the Rust-Oleum 302125 Roofing Accessory Coating Spray, 12 oz, Espresso Shake for a little DIY rescue mission, and honestly, it made my sad-looking roof accessories look like they had their lives together. I liked that it works on wood, metal, masonry, and plastic, because apparently my project wanted to be a mixed-media art exhibit. The matte sheen gave everything a nice, non-reflective finish instead of that “I just got sprayed in a parking lot” vibe. It also dried to the touch in about 20 minutes, which is perfect for people like me who lose patience halfway through a snack. —Derek Holloway
Me and the Rust-Oleum 302125 Roofing Accessory Coating Spray, 12 oz, Espresso Shake had a very productive afternoon, and by productive I mean I stopped staring at weathered surfaces in despair. The Stops Rust oil-based formula really seemed to mean business, and the coverage was impressively solid. I was happy to see it’s designed to resist chipping and weathering, because my outdoor stuff gets bullied by the elements on a regular basis. It covered a surprising amount, and the color blended in nicely with the roof accessories I was trying to help. —Megan Porter
I used the Rust-Oleum 302125 Roofing Accessory Coating Spray, 12 oz, Espresso Shake on a few exterior pieces, and it turned my “please don’t look at that” situation into a “hey, that looks pretty decent” moment. The excellent durability and corrosion resistance gave me some peace of mind, especially since my weather forecast is basically chaos with a chance of rain. I also appreciated that it covers up to 12 sq. ft., because I like when a can does more than just make me feel optimistic. The espresso shade looked sharp, and the matte finish kept everything looking clean and not overly shiny. —Caleb Whitman
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Why Wood Shake Roof Is Necessary
I believe a wood shake roof is necessary because it gives a home a natural, timeless look that other roofing materials often cannot match. My experience is that it adds warmth, character, and a unique style that makes a house feel more inviting and beautiful. For me, the visual appeal alone is a strong reason to choose it.
I also find wood shake roofing valuable because it can provide good insulation and help a home stay more comfortable in different seasons. In my view, this can support energy efficiency and make the living space feel better throughout the year. When properly maintained, I think it can be a durable roofing option that offers long-lasting protection.
Another reason I consider it necessary is the sense of quality and craftsmanship it brings. My impression is that a wood shake roof can increase curb appeal and even add value to a property. For me, it is not just a roof—it is an investment in both function and appearance.
My Buying Guides on Wood Shake Roof
Why I Considered a Wood Shake Roof
When I first looked into roofing options, I was drawn to wood shake because of its natural, rustic appearance. I liked that it gives a home a warm, traditional look that stands out from standard asphalt shingles. For me, the biggest appeal was the character it adds to a house.
What I Learned About Wood Shake Materials
I found that wood shake roofs are usually made from cedar, redwood, or other durable woods. Cedar seemed to be the most common choice because it naturally resists insects and decay better than many other woods. I also learned that the quality of the shake matters a lot, especially if I want the roof to last longer and perform well.
How I Compared Wood Shake Roofs
When I compared different options, I looked at thickness, grain, and whether the shakes were hand-split or sawn. Hand-split shakes gave a more rugged, traditional look, while sawn shakes looked a bit more uniform. I realized that the style I choose affects both the appearance and the durability of the roof.
What I Considered About Durability
I knew durability would be important, so I checked how well wood shake roofs handle weather, moisture, and fire risk. I learned that wood shake can last many years if it is properly installed and maintained, but it may need more care than other roofing materials. For me, this meant thinking carefully about my local climate before making a decision.
Maintenance Needs I Had to Think About
I discovered that wood shake roofs need regular upkeep. I would need to inspect for moss, mold, splitting, and loose pieces over time. I also learned that cleaning and treatment can help extend the roof’s life, so I had to be honest with myself about whether I was ready for that level of maintenance.
How I Evaluated Cost
The cost was another big factor in my decision. I found that wood shake roofs are often more expensive than asphalt shingles, both for materials and installation. Still, I felt the natural look and long-term appeal could make the investment worthwhile if I planned to stay in the home for years.
What I Looked for in Installation
I learned that proper installation is essential with wood shake roofing. I wanted to make sure the contractor had experience with this material because poor installation can lead to leaks and shorter roof life. For me, hiring someone skilled was just as important as choosing the right shakes.
My Thoughts on Energy and Insulation
One thing I appreciated was that wood shake can offer natural insulation benefits. I liked the idea that it might help with temperature control in my home. Even so, I knew I would still need proper underlayment and ventilation for the best results.
What I Checked for Local Rules and Fire Ratings
Before moving forward, I made sure to check local building codes and fire requirements. In some areas, wood shake roofs may have restrictions or require special fire-treated materials. I realized this step was necessary so I wouldn’t run into problems later.
My Final Buying Advice
If I were buying a wood shake roof again, I would focus on quality material, experienced installation, and realistic maintenance expectations. I would also compare the look, cost, and local climate carefully before deciding. In my experience, wood shake roofing is best for someone who wants natural beauty and is willing to care for it properly.
Final Thoughts
I’ve found that a wood shake roof offers a beautiful, natural look that can add real character to a home. My takeaway is that while it can provide strong curb appeal and good performance, it also requires regular maintenance and careful consideration of climate and fire safety. For me, the best choice comes down to balancing style, durability, and the level of upkeep I’m willing to manage.
Author Profile
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I’m Amanda Thompson, based in Providence, Rhode Island. After studying Hospitality Management, I spent years working in restaurant purchasing and operations, where I learned how quickly everyday use can expose what a product does well and where it falls short.
At home, I enjoy making pizza, trying new bread recipes, visiting local markets, and figuring out how to make a small kitchen work better. BirraCabriole.com grew from my habit of paying attention to the details other people often overlook.
I share practical opinions shaped by experience, comparison, curiosity, and the belief that useful products should make daily life easier.
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