how to make cedar shakes

Daniel Parker

3 min read

·

06-02-2025

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Cedar shakes offer a beautiful, durable, and naturally weather-resistant roofing and siding option. While purchasing pre-made shakes is convenient, crafting your own provides a rewarding experience and allows for customized sizes and thicknesses. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the process of making cedar shakes, from selecting the right wood to the final finishing touches.

Selecting and Preparing the Cedar

H2: Choosing the Right Cedar

The quality of your cedar significantly impacts the final product. Look for straight-grained, knot-free Western Red Cedar, known for its durability and resistance to rot and insects. Avoid wood with excessive knots, cracks, or decay, as these will weaken the shakes and shorten their lifespan. Ideally, select logs with a diameter of at least 12 inches for larger shakes.

H2: Milling the Cedar

Once you have your cedar logs, you'll need to mill them into rough-sawn boards. This process typically involves using a sawmill to cut the logs into planks of a consistent thickness (usually around 1-1.5 inches thick for shakes). If you lack access to a sawmill, consider hiring a professional to perform this step.

H3: Drying the Cedar

Proper drying is crucial to prevent warping and cracking during the shake-making process. Air drying is the traditional method, taking several months to a year depending on the thickness and climate. Kiln drying is faster but can sometimes compromise the wood's quality if not done properly. Regardless of the method, ensure the moisture content is below 15% before proceeding.

Shaping the Cedar Shakes

H2: Using Hand Tools for Traditional Shake Making

Traditional shake-making relies on hand tools for a more rustic look. These include:

• Froe: A specialized tool used to split the wood along the grain.
• Mallet: Used to strike the froe.
• Shaving Knife: For trimming and refining the edges.
• Measuring Tools: For consistent sizing.

The process involves:

1. Splitting: Using the froe and mallet, split the planks into rough shake blanks.
2. Shaping: Trim the blanks to achieve the desired size and taper using a shaving knife.
3. Finishing: Smooth any rough edges and refine the shape.

H2: Using Power Tools for Efficient Shake Production

Power tools can significantly speed up the process, though they require more specialized equipment and skill. These may include:

• Table Saw: For ripping the planks into narrower pieces.
• Rip Saw: Used for splitting and shaping.
• Planer: To achieve a smooth surface.
• Thickness Planer: To create a consistent thickness.

The process follows a similar approach, but power tools allow for more precise cuts and faster production.

H2: Important Considerations for Shape and Size

The thickness and length of your shakes depend on their intended use (roofing vs. siding). Roofing shakes are generally thicker and longer, providing better weather protection. Ensure all shakes are relatively uniform in size for a professional finish.

Finishing Touches and Installation

H2: Treating the Shakes

While cedar is naturally resistant, treating the shakes with a wood preservative can further enhance their longevity and protect against insects and decay. Choose a preservative that is compatible with cedar and environmentally friendly.

H2: Installing Your Cedar Shakes

The installation process depends on whether you're using the shakes for roofing or siding. Consult detailed guides specific to each application for precise instructions.

H3: Roofing Installation Considerations: Proper underlayment and flashing are crucial for a watertight roof. Overlapping shakes correctly ensures proper weather protection.

H3: Siding Installation Considerations: Maintain consistent spacing between shakes for an even look. Use appropriate fasteners to secure them to the wall structure.

Conclusion

Making your own cedar shakes is a labor of love, but the results are undeniably rewarding. By carefully selecting your cedar, utilizing the appropriate tools, and following these steps, you can create a beautiful and long-lasting addition to your home. Remember to prioritize safety when using hand or power tools. Enjoy the process!