The word “synthetic” often has negative connotations because people romanticize authenticity.

We understand the above mentalities even if we don’t fully agree with them. People long for what’s genuine and don’t want to settle for imitations. 

However, the idea that synthetic products are mere knockoffs and inferior to traditional versions of such products is—in fact—not necessarily genuine, reality, or full-on truth.

That’s not to say a synthetic version will blow the traditional iteration out of the water—but the facts of the matter aren’t so cut and dry.

Furthermore, we’ll even say “synthetic” doesn’t necessarily mean fake, especially as it pertains to roofing options like synthetic shake cedar. Because the positive results they offer are anything but fake or phony.

Let’s not forget that traditional shake cedar shingles have many advantages, and many Omaha-based HOAs require them. Yet, as we’ll discover throughout this article, these more authentic options present very real challenges.

Therefore, synthetic shake cedar roofing has proven to be a much more viable option for many Omaha-based homeowners. We’ll explore this topic in more in-depth detail below. 

What Is Shake Cedar Roofing, And When Does It Make The Most Sense For Your Roof?

We should first point out that shake cedar and cedar shingles aren’t one and the same.

Shake cedar is hand-split or resembles being hand-split. Conversely, cedar shingles are either sawn or appear to have been sawn.

Now, onto more specific details about cedar roofing and where it functions best:

As a natural roofing material, cedar does well in specific climates, but most certainly not all climates. It’s best suited to moderate to cool temperatures, offering most benefits in areas with less extreme summers and winters.

When temperatures roar at too high a number, cedar dries out and splits. On the other end of the weather spectrum, frequent freezing and thawing in frigid areas can cause abundant damage, leading to excess repairs and replacement costs.

Why Should You Reconsider Choosing Natural Shake Cedar?

The average cost for traditional shake cedar roofing is $18,000 to $25,000. That’s reasonable, especially compared to its synthetic counterpart, which costs around the same, and sometimes more—depending on the make and quality.

So, if “traditional” and “synthetic” cost the same, why are we even having this conversation? Shouldn’t it be the real deal every time?

After all, nobody can deny the natural beauty of shake cedar roofing, especially as it ages, developing an almost regal tone of grayish and silver. 

Cedar is also theoretically durable and can last a decade longer than asphalt and other roofing materials. 

However, while the material has the propensity to withstand strong winds—and even hurricanes and heavy rains—it remains susceptible to damage from hail and can fade over time. 

Excessive moisture can be highly detrimental to traditional shake cedar’s longevity, although it naturally fights off decay and is insect-resistant. 

Moreover, traditional cedar roofing material can be a significant fire hazard. You can offset this issue with fire-retardent treatments, but that’s extra work and money, which leads to another setback with authentic cedar: The required maintenance and expenses that come with it.

On top of fire retardants, you’ll require sealants, preservatives, and moss/mildew inhibitors.

The above reasons illustrate clearly why traditional cedar—while advantageous in certain scenarios—isn’t always suitable for homeowners. Below, we’ll delve further into why composite shake cedar can make more sense for homeowners than its natural counterpart.

Synthetic Shake Cedar Offers Durability Without The Added Maintenance.

We’ll first address the elephant in the room—the aesthetic difference between synthetic shake cedar and natural cedar.

You’re never quite going to emulate authentic shake cedar with composite products. It’s simply not possible. Still, you should ask yourself, is that aesthetic difference all that big of a deal?

Many synthetic options are nearly indistinguishable from natural cedar to the naked eye.

Undoubtedly, some composite options on the market won’t be up to par with others but don’t let that fact discourage you. It only takes some market research to decipher the top-tier synthetic options that’ll give you the more eye-catching aesthetic you desire.

There’s also the matter of price. 

We understand that the upfront differences between the two might be negligible, but you must weigh the long-term costs.

Synthetic shake cedar is far less rigorous and costly to maintain. 

Of course, you’ll still need to do some maintenance if you choose composite cedar. Still, you won’t have to worry about all the additional treatments (e.g., fire retardant, sealants, moss/mildew inhibitors) like you would with natural cedar. Composite shake cedar also won’t fade and isn’t susceptible to the elements like natural cedar is.

There’s also the matter of durability—synthetic shake cedar roofing lasts an average of 50 years. 

While natural shake cedar can last for a long time, it’s dependent on how well you treat and maintain it. It’s far more susceptible to the elements, and many experts cite it only lasting 30 years.

Since many Omaha HOAs demand cedar roofing, synthetic cedar offers homeowners in the area a safer, more long-term, cost-efficient alternative.

Is There A “Right” Choice Between Natural Shake Cedar And Composite Alternatives?

There isn’t a “right” choice between natural shake cedar and composite options. Your final decision should come down to what works best for you. 

If you’re okay with the additional maintenance required to maximize the lifespan and aesthetic of natural cedar, then it’s the right choice for you. If you want less hassle, optimal fire safety, and more reliability in harsher climates, then it would make sense to lean toward synthetic shake cedar.

The choice between the two isn’t one you should make lightly, demanding forethought on what you want as a homeowner. Perform your due diligence and speak with experts, and only then should you reach your final roofing decision.