Bring warmth, character, and timeless style to your home with wood shake roofing. Rivas Roofing installs, replaces, and repairs residential wood shake roofs with a sharp eye for detail and performance. With 30+ years of hands-on experience, we build roofs that fit your home’s architecture and last reliably for decades in Pasadena and the neighboring communities.
Rustic Character Built for Long-
Term Durability
Wood shake roofing is a natural roofing system made from hand-split or sawn wooden shingles, most commonly cedar. Unlike smooth-cut wood shingles, shakes are thicker and more textured, giving your roof a rustic, dimensional look. They’re often used on Craftsman, cottage-style, and custom homes where character and architectural detail really matter.
From a performance standpoint, wood shake roofing offers natural insulation and breathability, which helps regulate attic temperatures when installed correctly. A proper installation includes breathable underlayment, interlayment between courses, correct spacing, and detailed flashing to manage moisture and airflow. When paired with routine maintenance, a wood shake roof can last for decades while developing a weathered patina that adds even more character over time.
How We Handle Residential Wood Shake Roofing
We begin with a detailed, in-person inspection to evaluate roof pitch, decking integrity, existing ventilation, and moisture exposure. From there, we help you choose the right cedar shake type (hand-split, tapersawn, or straight-sawn) based on your home’s architecture and performance needs. We prep the roof with code-compliant underlayment, ice-and-water shield in critical areas, and proper battens or spacing to promote airflow.
During the installation process, we individually place each shake, stagger joints for water shedding, and fasten with corrosion-resistant stainless steel or hot-dipped galvanized nails. We then install interlayment between courses, integrate step flashing and valley metal, and finish hips and ridges. Before wrapping up, we perform a final walk-through inspection to verify fastening, alignment, flashing integrity, and ventilation, so nothing gets missed.
Benefits of Residential Wood Shake Roofing
Enhances Architectural Character and Curb Appeal
Wood shake roofing adds depth, texture, and natural variation that manufactured materials simply can’t replicate. Each shake has its own grain and tone, which helps create a roof that feels custom and intentional. This makes it a strong fit for Craftsman, cottage, and high-end custom homes where authentic materials and visual warmth matter.
Provides Natural Insulation and Energy Efficiency
The thickness and density of wood shakes help reduce heat transfer through the roof. Combined with proper spacing and ventilation, this creates an insulating air layer that supports more stable indoor temperatures. In Southern California homes, this can ease the load on HVAC systems and improve overall comfort year-round.
Long-Lasting Performance With Proper Installation
When installed correctly, wood shake roofing offers impressive durability. Quality underlayment, proper spacing, and proper fastening are crucial to performance. With routine inspections and maintenance, a residential wood shake roof can last for decades, resisting wind, sun exposure, and everyday wear while maintaining its structural integrity.
Ages Gracefully With a Distinctive, Natural Patina
Over time, wood shakes weather into a soft, silvery tone that many homeowners love. Instead of looking worn, the roof develops character and depth that complements the natural surroundings. With routine inspections and care, this aging process enhances the home’s appearance while still delivering dependable protection and long-term performance.
Get Your Free Estimate Today!
Rivas Roofing is a family-owned company with over 30 years of experience installing and replacing wood shake roofs across Altadena, Pasadena, and nearby communities. We believe in doing things the right way, which starts with an in-person consultation. You’ll get a fast, free, no-obligation estimate: contact us today to schedule your free estimate.
