Cedar shake roofs are part of the character of many Lower Mainland homes, especially older houses in Vancouver, North Vancouver, Burnaby and the Fraser Valley. They look beautiful when new, but BC’s wet climate is hard on wood. If your cedar roof is getting older, here is how to tell when it is time to replace it, what your options are, and what the process involves.
How Long Does a Cedar Shake Roof Last?
A well-maintained cedar shake roof typically lasts around 20 to 30 years. In the Lower Mainland, heavy rain, shade from tall trees and moss can shorten that considerably, especially on north-facing slopes and roofs that have not been cleaned or treated regularly.
Signs Your Cedar Roof Needs Replacing
- Splitting and cracking: shakes that are split, warped or curling no longer shed water properly.
- Rot and soft spots: dark, spongy shakes or soft areas when walked on (by a professional) point to rot.
- Heavy moss and lichen: years of moss growth trap moisture and break down the wood.
- Missing or loose shakes: gaps let water reach the layers underneath.
- Thin, worn shakes: weathering wears the wood thinner over time until it can no longer protect the roof.
- Leaks inside: water stains on ceilings or in the attic are a clear sign the roof is failing.
If only a small area is damaged, targeted roof repair may buy you more time. Once damage is widespread, replacement is usually the better investment.
Your Replacement Options
New cedar shakes: keeps the original look and character of the home, but brings the same maintenance needs and lifespan in our wet climate.
Architectural asphalt shingles: the most popular replacement choice. Modern laminated shingles offer a dimensional look, good wind resistance and a lower cost, with much less maintenance than cedar.
Metal roofing: the longest-lasting option, typically 40 to 70 years. Metal roofing resists moss and rot and is available in standing seam profiles and in styles that mimic the look of shakes.
Synthetic or composite shakes: made to look like real cedar while resisting rot, moss and splitting.
What to Expect During a Cedar Roof Replacement
Replacing a cedar roof is more involved than replacing asphalt shingles. Many cedar roofs were installed over spaced boards (gaps between the boards to let the wood breathe) rather than solid plywood. When switching to asphalt shingles or many other materials, a layer of solid sheathing usually needs to be installed first. Our process typically includes:
- A full inspection and a detailed estimate
- Tear-off and disposal of the old cedar shakes
- Repairing or replacing damaged boards and installing new sheathing if needed
- Installing underlayment, flashing and ventilation
- Installing the new roof and a full site cleanup
How Much Does It Cost?
Cost depends on roof size, pitch, the new material and how much sheathing work is needed. Most asphalt shingle roof replacements in the Lower Mainland cost about $12,000–$30,000, and metal roofs usually cost more. Removing cedar and adding sheathing can add to the total, so a site visit is the best way to get an accurate number.
Get a Cedar Roof Replacement Estimate
Great West Roof replaces cedar shake roofs across the Lower Mainland and can help you compare materials for your home and budget. Learn more about our roof replacement services, contact us, or call (778) 578-7018 for a free estimate.