Cedar Roofs
Timeless and naturally beautiful, cedar roofs offer unmatched charm, insulation, and durability—perfectly suited for homes across the Greater Toronto Area.
Cedar Roofing in the Greater Toronto Area – Natural, Elegant & Timeless
Cedar roofs bring a distinct charm and warmth to any property, making them a popular choice for homeowners and businesses across the Greater Toronto Area. Crafted from high-quality cedar wood—most commonly western red cedar—these roofs are prized for their natural insulation, durability, and rich color variations. Over time, cedar weathers to an elegant silver-grey, offering a classic, rustic look that enhances curb appeal and blends beautifully with natural surroundings.
Cedar shingles and cedar shakes are both widely used on residential homes and commercial structures. While cedar shingles are milled for a smooth, uniform appearance, cedar shakes offer a more textured, hand-split look for a rugged, traditional finish. Available in various lengths (typically 16″, 18″, or 24″) and random widths, both styles deliver outstanding performance and aesthetic versatility. They can also be used on vertical surfaces like sidewalls, and in many cases, installed directly over existing roofing such as asphalt or previous wood shingles.
At Alps Roofing, we specialize in the expert installation of cedar roofs throughout the GTA. Our team works closely with you to recommend the right product—shakes or shingles—for your architectural style, performance needs, and budget. Whether you’re restoring a heritage home or building new, cedar roofing offers a perfect balance of natural beauty and long-term value.
At Alps Roofing, we bring over a decade of experience to every project. Our team is dedicated to delivering top-notch craftsmanship, using premium materials, and ensuring every roof is built to stand the test of time. Trust us to provide roofing solutions that combine durability, style, and long-lasting value.
Benefits of Cedar Roofs
Cedar roofs offer a perfect balance of natural beauty, durability, and energy efficiency—making them an ideal choice for homeowners.
Natural Elegance
Cedar roofs add unmatched character and charm to any home or building. With warm tones and distinct grain patterns, cedar shingles and shakes age gracefully—developing a rich silver-grey patina over time that enhances your property’s aesthetic value.
Weather Resistance
Cedar is known for its strength and resilience. It holds up exceptionally well in extreme temperatures and is naturally resistant to damage from high winds, hail, snow, and even hurricanes—making it a smart choice for the unpredictable climate of the Greater Toronto Area.
Versatility for Roof & Wall
Beyond roofing, cedar shingles and shakes can be applied to sidewalls for a cohesive architectural look. Whether installed on modern homes, cottages, or heritage properties, cedar adapts beautifully to a wide range of styles and structures.
Energy Efficiency
Thanks to its natural insulating properties, cedar provides up to twice the thermal efficiency of asphalt shingles. This helps reduce heat loss in winter and heat absorption in summer—lowering your energy bills year-round.
Dimensional Stability
Cedar’s low density gives it excellent dimensional stability. It resists warping, cupping, and splitting, even in humid or fluctuating weather. It also holds nails securely and stays straight over time, helping maintain the roof’s integrity for decades.
Environmentally Friendly
Cedar is a renewable resource and biodegradable at the end of its life cycle. When sourced responsibly, cedar roofing is one of the most eco-conscious options available—perfect for homeowners in the GTA who prioritize sustainability.
Cedar Shingles or Cedar Shakes
Cedar Shingles are sawed from wood blocks. They are tapered and generally have a smooth surface. Cedar shingles have uniform thickness, appearance and width. There are two styles of cedar shingles: sawn and sanded cedar shingles. The sawn cedar shingles have the strength and general visual properties of cedar shakes, but with a more tailored appearance. The sanded cedar shingle is smoother on both sides and offers an even more refined look.
Cedar Shakes are split from wood blocks; they are less uniform in thickness than shingles, are sometimes grooved, and often have little taper. Shakes may be split and then sawn to provide taper as well as a relatively flat side. Cedar shakes have a rustic appearance. Within the cedar shakes category, hand-split and taper-sawn cedar shakes are the two options. The hand-split shake has a rough outside and creates a more rustic effect. The taper-sawn shake is sawn on both sides and retains the thickness and strength of a shake while remaining closer to the texture and tailored appearance of a shingle. Taper-sawing means the shake is cut so it’s slightly thicker at one end.
The most important property to consider when buying cedar shingles and cedar shakes is durability, and its resistance to decay. Some woods, such as the red cedar, have natural durability and that makes it the most regularly used wood for shingles. Cedar roofing shakes and shingles also provide excellent insulation as a roofing material.
Common Questions About Cedar Roofs
Frequently Asked Questions
A well-installed and properly maintained cedar roof can last between 30 to 50 years in the Greater Toronto Area (GTA). The longevity of a cedar roof depends on factors such as the quality of the cedar used, installation techniques, and regular maintenance. Western Red Cedar, known for its natural resistance to decay and insects, is commonly used and offers superior durability.
At Alps Roofing, we ensure the use of high-quality cedar materials and expert installation practices to maximize the lifespan of your roof. Regular maintenance, including cleaning and inspections, is essential to prevent issues like moss growth and moisture retention, which can compromise the roof's integrity over time.
Cedar roofs require regular maintenance to preserve their appearance and functionality, especially in the GTA's variable climate. Key maintenance tasks include annual inspections, cleaning to remove debris and moss, and applying protective treatments to enhance resistance against moisture and UV damage.
Alps Roofing offers comprehensive maintenance services tailored to cedar roofing systems. Our team conducts thorough inspections to identify potential issues early and provides cleaning and treatment solutions to extend the life of your cedar roof, ensuring it remains both beautiful and durable.
The cost of installing a cedar roof in the GTA varies based on factors such as roof size, complexity, and the type of cedar used. On average, homeowners can expect to pay between $15 to $25 per square foot for materials and installation. Additional costs may include the removal of the existing roof and any necessary structural modifications.
At Alps Roofing, we provide detailed estimates and work closely with clients to offer cost-effective solutions that meet their budget and aesthetic preferences. Our commitment to quality ensures that your investment in a cedar roof adds long-term value to your property.
Yes, cedar roofs offer excellent energy efficiency due to the natural insulating properties of cedar wood. This insulation helps maintain comfortable indoor temperatures by reducing heat loss in the winter and minimizing heat gain during the summer, leading to lower energy bills.
Alps Roofing installs cedar roofing systems that enhance your home's energy performance. By choosing cedar, you're investing in a roofing solution that not only adds aesthetic appeal but also contributes to a more sustainable and cost-effective home environment.
Cedar roofs are well-suited to handle the diverse weather conditions of the GTA, including heavy snowfall, rain, and temperature fluctuations. The natural oils in cedar provide resistance against moisture, decay, and insect damage, making it a durable choice for the region.
At Alps Roofing, we ensure that our cedar roofing installations are designed to withstand the local climate. Our expert team considers factors like proper ventilation and drainage during installation to enhance the roof's performance and longevity.
Cedar shingles are machine-cut, providing a uniform and smooth appearance, while cedar shakes are hand-split, offering a more rustic and textured look. Both options are durable and provide excellent protection, but the choice between them often depends on aesthetic preferences and architectural style.
Alps Roofing offers both cedar shingles and shakes, guiding clients through the selection process to choose the best fit for their home's design and functional needs. Our skilled craftsmen ensure precise installation, delivering a roof that combines beauty with performance.
Get A Free Estimate
Get An Estimate For Your Cedar Roof Project
Looking for a reliable roofing partner? At Alps Roofing, we’re here to help! Contact us today to schedule a free assessment and get a detailed quote for your roof installation. Let us provide you with a roof that’s built to last.
(647) 280-0401