Best Cedar Shingles for Siding That Stand Up to Weather
Cedar shingles bring natural beauty and durability to siding projects. This guide highlights five top cedar options for exterior walls, focusing on durability, installation ease, and moisture resistance. Each product offers distinct profiles—from traditional grooved sidewall shingles to decorative cuts—so you can choose based on exposure, climate, and aesthetic goals. Below, you’ll find quick product selections, then in-depth sections that cover installation considerations, maintenance needs, and performance nuances for American homeowners.
| Product | Brand | Key Feature |
|---|---|---|
| Miller Shingle 18″ Rebutted & Rejointed (R&R) Sidewall Shingles 1/2 Square Carton | Miller Shingle | R&R, for sidewall, 50 sq ft per carton |
| Western Red Cedar 18″ Resquared & Rebutted Grooved Sidewall Shingles 1/2 Square | Pacific Coast | Grooved, resquared, sidewall oriented |
| 64 Pcs Western Red Cedar Shingles Chips Bulk | Briwooody | Bulk chips, 20-25 sq ft coverage |
| Western Red Cedar 18″ #1 Perfections Shingles Certigrade | N/A | Certigrade quality, 18″ length |
| CertainTeed Cedar Impressions Double 7″ Shingle Siding | CertainTeed | Polymer siding with cedar-inspired look |
Miller Shingle: 18″ R&R Cedar Sidewall Shingles
Manufactured from high-grade #1 18-inch kiln-dried shingles, these grooved-on-one-side shingles are rebutted and rejointed (R&R) and designed specifically for sidewall applications. Each 1/2 square carton covers about 50 square feet at a 14-inch exposure when double coursed. This option emphasizes consistent edge detailing and weather resistance, making it suitable for exterior siding where a classic cedar look is desired while maintaining installation efficiency.
Miller Shingle: 18″ R&R Cedar Sidewall Shingles (Another 1/2 Square Carton)
Similar to the first option, these 18-inch R&R cedar shingles are also aimed at sidewall installations with 1/2 square cartons that yield about 50 square feet at a 14-inch exposure. The emphasis remains on quality #1 shingles with a reliable groove and joint pattern that supports durable, weather-ready siding.
64 Pcs Western Red Cedar Shingles Chips
This bulk set contains 64 pieces of western red cedar shingles, each 18″ long and 5.8″ wide at the butt, tapering toward the edge. Covering 20-25 square feet, these natural cedar chips offer moisture resistance and natural decay/pest resistance. They are versatile for roofing or siding accents, enabling custom layouts and unique textures on exterior walls while leveraging cedar’s insulating benefits.
Western Red Cedar 18″ Resquared & Rebutted Grooved Sidewall Shingles
These shingles offer a resquared and rebutted design with grooved sidewall profiles. They are packaged in half-square cartons and are intended for precise installation at 14-inch exposure. Coverage guidance helps estimate quantities for siding projects, while the grooved pattern supports clean, tight joints and a traditional cedar appearance with proven exterior performance.
Western Red Cedar 18″ #1 Perfections Shingles Certigrade
These #1 Perfections shingles deliver high-quality Certigrade Western Red Cedar—18 inches long with a typical width range. They are designed for siding and roofing projects where durability and a premium cedar aesthetic are priorities. Expect natural resistance to moisture and pests, with a robust profile suited for long-lasting exterior cladding in varied climates.
CertainTeed Cedar Impressions Double 7 Inch Shingle Siding
While not true cedar wood, CertainTeed Cedar Impressions offers a cedar-look siding with a patented PanelThermometer and True Texture finish. It is engineered to withstand hurricane-strength winds and features a molded continuous perimeter lock. Made in the USA, this option provides a durable alternative that mimics natural cedar while delivering low maintenance and consistent performance in exterior walls.
Miller Shingle MasterCut Round Decorative Cedar Shingles
MasterCut decorative cedar shingles are designed for stylistic siding accents, featuring round, fish-scale-like shapes. They are crafted from Miller Shingle #1 18-inch shingles with a sanded finish on one side. Each piece measures about 17 inches long and 4 15/16 inches wide, offering a distinctive texture for focal wall areas or feature facades on homes that favor a decorative cedar look.
Miller Shingle MasterCut Fish Scale Decorative Cedar Shingles
Fish scale decorative cedar shingles offer a bold, textured appearance for exterior walls. Like the round MasterCut, these are made from Miller Shingle’s #1 18-inch shingles and feature a sanded surface. The 104-piece set provides ample material for accenting sections of siding or creating decorative panels that catch the eye while maintaining cedar’s natural warmth and insulation properties.
Buying Guide: Key Purchase Considerations For Cedar Shingles For Siding
- Purpose and style: Choose traditional grooved sidewall shingles for a classic cedar look or decorative cuts (round/fish scale) for accent walls. Consider whether you want a seamless siding appearance or a focal architectural feature.
- Material quality: Look for high-grade cedar (e.g., #1 grade, western red cedar) with consistent thickness and minimal knots to ensure durability and uniform staining or sealing.
- Exposure and coverage: Verify exposure measurements (commonly 14″) and carton coverage to estimate how many bundles or cartons are needed for your wall area. Some products are sold in half-square cartons for precise sizing.
- Moisture resistance and pests: Cedar offers natural moisture resistance and insect deterrence, but additional finishes or sealants may extend the life in humid or coastal climates. Consider pre-primed options if painting is planned.
- Installation considerations: Grooved sidewall shingles typically allow for quicker alignment and spacing. Rebutted and rejoindered (R&R) designs can improve edge tightness and reduce gaps, aiding weather resistance.
- Maintenance: Cedar siding may require periodic cleaning and re-sealing. Some polymer-look options mimic cedar while offering lower maintenance, though they differ in heat absorption and color retention.
- Local building codes and climate: Confirm wind, humidity, and climate requirements—especially for hurricane-prone regions—since some products promise higher wind resistance or specific installation patterns.
- Cost versus longevity: Real cedar often commands higher upfront costs but can offer long-term beauty and durability. Compare lifetime maintenance costs with alternative siding options to determine value.
- Availability and packaging: Shingles come in varied packaging (half-square cartons, full cartons, or bulk). Plan for delivery timing and on-site storage to prevent warping or damage.