Few siding materials evoke the character and warmth of New England like natural cedar shingles. From the weathered gray cottages of Cape Cod to the stained cedar colonials of Concord and Wellesley, cedar shingles have been a defining feature of Massachusetts architecture for generations. Here's what makes them special and what you should know before choosing cedar for your home.
The Natural Advantages of Cedar
Cedar is nature's perfect siding material. The wood contains natural oils (thujaplicins) that resist insects, rot, and decay without any chemical treatment. This is why cedar shingles can last 40-60 years when properly installed — and some historic installations have survived for a century or more.
Cedar also offers exceptional natural insulation. Its cellular structure traps air, providing a higher R-value per inch than most other siding materials. This translates to genuine energy savings for your Massachusetts home, where heating costs are a major concern.
Weathering and Aesthetics
One of cedar's most distinctive characteristics is how it ages. Left natural (unfinished), cedar shingles gradually weather to a beautiful silvery-gray patina. This weathering is purely cosmetic — it doesn't affect the wood's structural integrity or protective qualities.
The weathering process depends on your home's orientation and exposure: - South and west-facing walls weather fastest due to sun and rain exposure - North-facing walls weather more slowly and may develop more moss/lichen - Protected areas under eaves may retain their original color longer
For homeowners who prefer to maintain a specific color, cedar accepts stain beautifully. Semi-transparent stains allow the natural grain to show through while adding UV protection and color consistency.
Cedar Grades and Profiles
- No. 1 Blue Label — The premium grade. 100% edge-grain, 100% clear (no knots). Provides the most uniform, elegant appearance.
- No. 2 Red Label — Allows some flat grain and limited defects. Still excellent quality at a more accessible price point.
- No. 3 Black Label — Utility grade with visible knots and some defects. Used for less visible areas or rustic applications.
- Shingles — Machine-sawn on both faces for a smooth, uniform look. The standard choice for most residential applications.
- Shakes — Hand-split face with sawn back. Thicker and more textured than shingles, creating a bold, rustic appearance.
- Fancy-Cut Shingles — Decorative shapes (round, diamond, arrow, octagon) used as accents in gable peaks and architectural details.
Maintenance Tips for Massachusetts
To maximize the life of your cedar shingles:
- Clean every 2-3 years — Use a mild oxygen bleach solution to remove mildew, algae, and dirt. Avoid pressure washing, which can damage the wood fibers.
- Re-stain every 4-6 years — If you maintain a stained finish, plan to refresh the stain before it shows significant wear.
- Trim vegetation — Keep bushes, vines, and tree branches away from the siding to promote airflow and prevent moisture buildup.
- Replace damaged shingles promptly — Individual shingles can be replaced without affecting surrounding ones. Address damage quickly to prevent moisture from reaching the sheathing.
- Ensure proper ventilation — Cedar needs airflow behind it. If your home doesn't have a rain screen gap, consider adding one during your next renovation.
Wolf's Siding Inc. specializes in cedar shingle installation and restoration across Massachusetts. Our experienced crew hand-selects and individually nails each shingle for a perfect installation that will age gracefully for decades.
Get Your Free Estimate
Ready to start your siding project? Contact us today for a no-obligation consultation.
