Real cedar shingles and shakes are perennial favorites for roofs because of their natural, rustic appearance. Shingles, the thinner of the two, have smooth, sawn surfaces. Shakes may be either sawn or hand-split for a more rugged appearance. Shakes are expected to last 15 to 25 years and shakes up to 50 years.

In fire-prone areas, wood shingles and shakes may require pressure treatment with fire retardant or may be forbidden entirely.

In humid climates, where fungus and mildew can be a problem, wood roofs should be treated with a fungicide after the first year (you can also buy types pretreated with preservatives).

Fancy-cut wood shingles are availale in a variety of shapes, including fish- scale, cove, and V-cut patterns. Wood shingles
require open sheathing: 1 by 6 boards that are spaced apart. The spaces allow air to circulate around the shingles to prevent moisture buildup underneath the wood.

Wood shakes, with deeply grooved textures that allow for air circulation, may be applied over solid sheathing with interlays of 30-pound roofing felt. Some shakes may be applied over open sheathing.