Compared to concrete or synthetic composite tiles, steel shakes are incredibly lightweight—often 1/5 the weight of concrete tiles. This means they can usually be installed over existing roofing materials (depending on local codes and structural integrity), reducing the cost of tear-off and disposal.
Steel shake is engineered to withstand hurricane-force winds up to 140 mph and carries a Class A fire rating, the highest level of protection available.
A common misconception is that metal roofing is environmentally inferior to natural wood. In reality, steel shake roofing presents a powerful case for ecological responsibility. Firstly, most steel roofing contains a significant percentage (typically 25-35%) of recycled content and is itself 100% recyclable at the end of its life, diverting tons of material from landfills. Wood shake production, conversely, often involves old-growth logging and generates considerable manufacturing waste. Secondly, the long lifespan of steel means fewer replacements and less resource extraction over a century. Thirdly, steel shakes can be coated with highly reflective “cool roof” pigments that significantly reduce solar heat gain, lowering attic temperatures and cutting air conditioning energy use by 10-25%. Finally, because steel shakes are much lighter than concrete or clay tiles, they can often be installed over a single layer of existing shingles, eliminating the waste and carbon expense associated with tear-off and disposal. steel shake roofing
Engineers looked to bridge the gap between the timeless aesthetic of hand-split cedar and the indomitable strength of metal. The result was :
Wood roofs require regular treatments to prevent moss, mildew, and rot. Steel, conversely, requires almost no maintenance. It resists mold and fungus growth, and it will not be damaged by insects, birds, or squirrels. Compared to concrete or synthetic composite tiles, steel
For centuries, the natural warmth and rustic texture of wood shake roofing defined the architectural character of rural homesteads, alpine lodges, and coastal cottages. However, the inherent vulnerabilities of wood—flammability, rot, insect infestation, and constant maintenance—have long plagued homeowners. In response to these limitations, the roofing industry has engineered a compelling alternative: steel shake roofing. This product is not merely an industrial substitute but a sophisticated building material that successfully synthesizes the timeless beauty of hand-split cedar with the uncompromising performance of 21st-century metallurgy. As such, steel shake roofing represents a superior choice for the modern property owner, offering unparalleled durability, safety, and sustainability without sacrificing aesthetic integrity.
Steel shake roofing is an excellent choice for homeowners who: A common misconception is that metal roofing is
Designed to mimic the deep-grained texture of hand-split cedar, this roofing system uses high-gauge steel—often coated with protective zinc or stone granules—to provide a high-performance alternative to organic materials that rot, crack, or catch fire.
For centuries, homeowners have been captivated by the timeless, rustic charm of cedar shake roofs. However, the high maintenance, susceptibility to fire, and relatively short lifespan of traditional wood have led many to seek a modern alternative. Enter —a material that marries the aesthetic appeal of classic wood with the high-performance durability of metal.