The natural beauty of cedar can be enhanced with a variety of different finishes or left in its natural state. The benefits of building with cedar have been known for hundreds of years. In fact, as a roofing and siding material, nothing beats white cedar shingles. Its natural qualities allow it to withstand the elements better than any other material available.
As a superior roofing and siding material, cedar shingles are the preferred material for high-end homes. As a result, homes clad in cedar shingles can command a premium price.
The natural fiber recovery of cedar wood makes it durable in areas where other materials fail. Cedar provides superior protection against hail as well as thermal shock (repeated freezing and thawing) that causes some roofing materials to crack, break and sink.
Cedar saves on electricity bills. As an insulator, it can provide 2 to 5 times more insulating value than other materials.
Cedar is a smart choice for earthquake-prone areas since it weighs up to 75% less than most tile roofs.
While most roofing materials add weight to the structure, cedar shingles improve the stability of roofs and walls. In wind tunnel tests, cedar roofs withstood winds of over 130 miles per hour (208 km/hr).