Which is Better? Real Cedar or Composite Cedar Shingles and Shakes
Cedar vs. Composite: Choosing the Right Shake for Your Home (Including Installation Differences) When it comes to achieving that timeless coastal or cottage look, shake siding is hard to beat. But today’s homeowners face a key decision: natural cedar shakes or Tando Beach House composite shakes . Beyond appearance and maintenance, one of the biggest differences comes down to how they’re installed —and what that means for cost, timeline, and performance. Natural Cedar Shakes: Craftsmanship-Driven Installation Cedar shakes are installed piece by piece , which is part of their charm—but also their complexity. How installation works: Installed individually in overlapping rows (courses) Requires a breathable rain screen or felt underlayment Each shake is hand-nailed , often with spacing for expansion Layout must account for staggered joints and natural variation Trim, corners, and details are typically custom-cut on site What that means: ⏱️ Time-intensive: Installation can take significan...