Cedar Roofing FAQ

Cedar shake roofing is a premium roofing material made from natural cedar logs that are split or sawn into individual shingles, called shakes. It offers a distinctive, textured appearance and is valued for its durability, insulation properties, and timeless curb appeal.

With proper installation and maintenance, a cedar shake roof can last 30 years or more in Minnesota. Longevity depends on material grade, ventilation, exposure to severe weather, and regular upkeep such as cleaning and treating the wood.

Cedar roofing provides natural beauty, excellent insulation, strong weather resistance, and a sustainable, eco-friendly material choice. It also increases property value and performs well in Minnesota's variable climate when properly maintained.

Common signs include split, curled, or missing shakes, excessive moss or algae growth, wood rot, visible leaks, and granule or wood debris in gutters. If your cedar roof is more than 20 years old or shows these issues, a professional inspection is recommended.

Yes. Hail can crack, split, or dislodge cedar shakes, and wind can lift or remove them entirely. Damage is not always visible from the ground, so we recommend scheduling an inspection after any significant Minnesota storm.

Our team performs a comprehensive assessment of the cedar shakes, flashing, ventilation, gutters, and surrounding exterior. We document our findings with photos, explain the condition of your roof, and recommend repair or replacement options tailored to your home.

We recommend a professional cedar roof inspection at least once a year, and immediately after any major hail or wind storm. Regular inspections help catch small issues before they become costly repairs.

Many cedar roofs can be repaired by replacing individual damaged shakes and addressing localized issues. If the roof is nearing the end of its lifespan or has widespread damage, a full replacement may be the better long-term investment.

Yes. Empire Builders works directly with homeowners and insurance companies to document storm and hail damage, provide detailed estimates, and help ensure your cedar roof restoration is handled properly from start to finish.

Absolutely. Natural cedar remains a beautiful, premium roofing material known for its character, dimension, and timeless appearance. With proper installation and care, it can be an exceptional choice for luxury homes.

Brava is a premium roofing product designed to recreate the dimensional appearance of natural cedar shake while offering an alternative material with enhanced durability and lower maintenance requirements.

Both are excellent options, and the right choice depends on your home and priorities. Natural cedar offers authentic beauty and character, while Brava offers a similar architectural aesthetic with different performance and maintenance benefits. Empire Builders can walk you through both options.

Often, yes. The best solution depends on the age and overall condition of the roof, the extent of the damage, and the availability of compatible materials. We evaluate each cedar roof individually before recommending repair or replacement.

Yes. Empire Builders works with both natural cedar shake and premium synthetic alternatives, allowing homeowners to compare their options and select the roofing system that best complements their home.

You can schedule a complimentary cedar roof inspection by visiting our schedule page or calling us directly at (763) 331-4863.