All About White Cedar Shingles

White cedar shingles, prized for their natural beauty and durability, have been a staple of coastal New England architecture for centuries. These untreated wood shingles weather to a distinctive silvery-gray patina over time for a look that complements seaside homes. However, white cedar shingles can face issues over time. In this article, we’ll explore the pros and cons of white cedar shingles, as well as installation techniques. In the video above, This Old House general contractor Tom Silva shares his expert insights on working with this classic building material.

Benefits of White Cedar Shingles

White cedar shingles offer several advantages as a siding material. The untreated nature of these shingles allows them to develop a unique character over time, with each home taking on its own distinctive appearance as the wood ages. Here are the other main benefits:

• Ability to withstand coastal weather conditions: White cedar shingles are durable and resistant to harsh coastal elements like salt spray and high winds, making them ideal for seaside homes where other materials might degrade more quickly.
• Attractive natural coloring: The warm, natural hues of white cedar, which can range from light golden brown to deep amber, provide a classic and aesthetically pleasing look that can complement various architectural styles.
• Insect resistance: White cedar contains natural oils that deter pests such as termites and carpenter ants, reducing the need for chemical treatments and enhancing the longevity of the shingles.
• Renewable and sustainable resource: White cedar shingles have a low carbon footprint compared to other siding materials. White cedar is a renewable resource, , making it a more environmentally-friendly option compared to non-renewable building materials. The production process requires less energy, and the wood itself stores carbon, reducing the overall environmental impact.

White Cedar Shingle Grades

White cedar shingles are available in different grades, which determine their quality and appearance. The higher the grade, the fewer knots and defects you’ll see. Higher grades also generally offer better durability, but they also come at a higher cost.

• Grade A: This premium grade has minimal knots, defects, and imperfections.
• Grade B: This grade is characterized by fewer knots and defects than lower grades but may still have some imperfections.
• Grade C: This grade includes shingles with more visible knots and imperfections. While they are less expensive and still functional, they may not offer the same level of durability or visual appeal as higher grades.
• Grade D: These shingles have the most defects and knots and are often used for utility or non-visible applications.

Common Issues With White Cedar Shingles

While white cedar shingles are known for their durability, they can still experience problems over time. Silva points out several common failure points that homeowners should be aware of.

• Rot and water damage: Rot is a primary concern for untreated wood shingles. To mitigate this issue, Silva recommends leaving a 5-inch gap between the roof and the final course of shingles. This space allows water to drain and the shingles to dry, reducing the risk of rot.
• Mold and mildew growth: Natural discoloration from mold and mildew is a normal part of the weathering process for white cedar shingles. While this typically doesn’t cause immediate concern, excessive growth can lead to premature failure of the shingles.
• Moss accumulation: Moss growth, particularly on north-facing walls, can be problematic. The moss retains moisture, potentially leading to rot and damage to the shingles underneath.
• Cupping and splitting: South-facing walls are susceptible to cupping and splitting due to exposure to intense sunlight. This can cause the shingles to dry out too quickly, compromising their integrity.

Proper Installation of White Cedar Shingles

Before installing new shingles, your roofing contractor will strip the house down to the sheathing and inspect and repair any damage. They should also apply a waterproof, breathable barrier to protect the wall.

For longevity and optimal performance, have a professional siding company install your white cedar shingles. Silva demonstrates proper installation techniques, which include the following steps:

1. Remove old shingles and inspect the sheathing.
2. Apply new house wrap if necessary.
3. Install a breathable membrane over the house wrap.
4. Nail shingles through all layers using appropriate fasteners. Use galvanized box, stainless steel, or shingle nails for installation.
5. Double up the first course to prevent gaps.
6. Use a straight edge along a chalk line to ensure straight courses.
7. Maintain a maximum 5-inch reveal to prevent curling.

Selecting and Installing Shingles

Confirm with your contractor that they checked the following details:

• Checked each shingle for cupping before installation
• Installed cupped shingles with the concave side facing out
• Maintained a slight gap between shingles to allow for expansion
• Used no more than two nails per shingle, placed 3/4–1 inch from the edges

White Cedar Shingle Maintenance and Protection

While white cedar shingles are often left untreated to weather naturally, you can add protection to extend their lifespan.

• Bleaching oil: A light coating of bleaching oil provides minimal protection but helps maintain a more uniform appearance as the shingles weather.
• Weathering stain: This type of stain is designed to mimic the natural weathering process while offering some additional protection against the elements.
• Solid body stains: For those who prefer a specific color or maximum protection, solid body stains are available in various hues. While they require more maintenance, they can significantly extend the life of your shingles.

Regular inspections and cleaning can help prevent issues such as moss growth and excessive moisture retention. If you notice any damaged or rotting shingles, replace them promptly to avoid further issues.

Cost and Longevity

While the higher grades of shingles come at a premium, their superior durability and appearance may justify the expense. The cost of installation can vary based on labor costs in your region, the complexity of the installation job, the grade of shingles selected, and the size of your home.

According to Angi, homeowners can expect to pay anywhere from $9,750–$28,000 for a professional siding job with shingle-style planks. Cedar shingle siding is typically between $7 and $11 per square foot. Despite the initial investment, the longevity and aesthetic appeal of white cedar shingles can add value to your home.

Longevity and Replacement

White cedar shingles typically have a lifespan of up to 25 years, depending on the local climate and maintenance practices. Homes in harsh coastal environments may experience a shorter lifespan due to constant exposure to salt, wind, and moisture.

Innovations in White Cedar Shingles

As technology and manufacturing processes advance, innovations in white cedar shingles continue to emerge. These developments enhance the durability, performance, and aesthetic appeal of the shingles.

Pre-Treated and Pre-Finished Shingles

One innovation is the availability of pre-treated and pre-finished white cedar shingles. These shingles come with factory-applied protective coatings that offer enhanced resistance to moisture, UV rays, and other environmental factors. Pre-treatments can extend the lifespan of the shingles and reduce the need for frequent maintenance.

Enhanced Installation Techniques

Modern installation techniques, such as the use of advanced fasteners and weather-resistant barriers, improve the overall performance of white cedar shingle installations. These techniques help prevent common issues like water infiltration and shingle cupping for a longer-lasting and more reliable siding solution.

Customization Options

Today’s homeowners have more options than ever when it comes to customizing white cedar shingle installations. From different grades to a variety of stains and finishes, the possibilities are endless.

Our Conclusion

White cedar shingles are a classic, attractive option for coastal homes, providing natural durability and a distinctive weathered look. While they require some maintenance and eventual replacement, their beauty and performance make them a popular choice for many homeowners. 

Resources:

For the demonstration in the barn after the house call, Tom demonstrated SBC white cedar shingles in a variety of stains. The combination house wrap/air gap Silva used on top of the sheathing was Slicker HP Rainscreen 6mm, which is manufactured by Benjamin Obdyke. He used Grip-Rite 6p galvanized box nails, which can be found at most home centers.

Expert assistance with this segment was provided by SV Design.