Best Cedar Shingles for Roof: Top Western Red Cedar Options for 2026
Answering the common question “which cedar shingles should I choose for a roof or sidewall?” this guide highlights five top Western Red Cedar shingles that balance appearance, durability, and installability. Each product is best for a specific project type—from professional roofing to decorative exterior siding. The list below helps buyers compare fit, grain, and exposure so you can select confidently.
Summary of selected cedar shingles:
| Product | Best For | Key Benefit | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pacific Coast 18″ Resquared & Rebutted Grooved Sidewall Shingles | Professional siding or sidewall projects | Precise fit and shadow-rich texture | R&R construction for clean alignment |
| Briwooody 64 Pcs Western Red Cedar Shingles Chips | Budget-friendly roof or panel projects | 20–25 sq ft coverage per bundle | Bulk supply with natural durability |
| Miller Shingle 18″ #4 Undercourse Cedar Kiln Dried Sidewall Shingle | Under-coursing and starter rows | Kiln-dried, reliable 18″ shingle | Great for double coursed sides |
| 24″ #1 Royals Western Red Cedar Shingles | Visible exterior siding or premium roofing | CVG, longer 24″ length for coverage | High appearance quality |
| 18″ #1 Perfections Western Red Cedar Shingles | Architectural siding with minimal knots | Clear vertical grain for stability | Premium CVG grade, clean finish |
Pacific Coast 18″ Resquared & Rebutted Shingles
Best for precise siding installations where professional alignment matters. These shingles are Western Red Cedar, offering natural durability and beauty. The Resquared & Rebutted (R&R) construction ensures a snug fit and clean geometry on visible surfaces. The machine-grooved face adds depth and shadowing for a refined exterior look. Choose this for projects prioritizing a tight, polished appearance and accurate installation for sidewalls or exterior panels.
Who this is for: professional remodelers and homeowners aiming for a high-end cedar appearance with reliable alignment. Caution: grooved texture may require careful handling during cutting to preserve the groove integrity.
Briwooody 64 Pcs Cedar Shingles Chips
Best for budget-conscious projects needing broad coverage. Each order includes 64 shingles, totaling about 20–25 square feet of coverage with 18″ length and 0.6″ butt thickness. The shingles are natural Western Red Cedar, offering moisture resistance, and are designed for straightforward installation with insulation and soundproofing benefits. Suitable for roofing or outdoor panels where cost per square foot matters.
Who this is for: builders avoiding high-cost premium cedar while still seeking natural material and durability. Caution: overall finish may show more variation in color and grain than premium grades.
Miller Shingle 18″ #4 Undercourse Shingle
Best for under-coursing and starter rows on double coursed sidewalls. This kiln-dried Western Red Cedar product offers reliable 18″ coverage and is designed to help ensure solid adhesion and consistent exposure. It’s a practical choice when you need a dependable base layer or starter shingles with stable dimensional integrity.
Who this is for: installers focusing on durable underlayment and starter courses. Caution: intended for under-coursing; not ideal as a sole visible shingle in some designs.
24″ #1 Royals Western Red Cedar Shingles
Best for high-visibility exterior siding and premium roofing applications. These shingles are CERTI-GRADE with clear vertical grain (CVG) and longer 24″ length for wider exposure. Kiln-dried cedar ensures stability and a refined finish, ideal for architectural projects where appearance and longevity matter.
Who this is for: homeowners and builders aiming for a premium cedar look with fewer imperfections. Caution: longer exposure may require more precise alignment on larger surfaces.
18″ #1 Perfections Western Red Cedar Shingles
Best for architectural siding needing minimal knots and a clean finish. These 18″ shingles are CERTI-GRADE with clear vertical grain (CVG) and are kiln-dried for stability. They offer a smooth texture and consistent dimensions, delivering a premium, uniform appearance once installed.
Who this is for: owners seeking a high-end exterior with a refined cedar look. Caution: CVG cedar can be more sensitive to installation conditions; ensure proper ventilation and drying during acclimation.
Buying Guide: Cedar Shingles For Roof And Siding
What to consider when choosing cedar shingles:
- Grade and appearance: CVG and CERTI-GRADE grades provide fewer knots and more uniform grain for visible exteriors.
- Shingle size and exposure: longer shingles (e.g., 24″) cover more area per piece and create a distinct look; shorter lengths simplify installation on smaller projects.
- Moisture handling: kiln-dried cedar reduces moisture content for stability, but proper acclimation on site remains essential.
- Application: use undercoursing shingles for starter rows or double-coursed sidewalls; consider grooved or R&R options for better alignment and shadowing.
- Durability and maintenance: Western Red Cedar naturally resists moisture and insects, yet sealing or staining can extend life and preserve color.
- Cost considerations: bulk packs offer lower cost per square foot, but premium CVG grades deliver superior appearance and longevity.
- Installation environment: cedar performs best in well-ventilated, dry climates; in harsh wet or freezing conditions follow best practice detailing to minimize checks and cracking.
FAQ
- What is the best cedar shingle grade for visible siding? – CERTI-GRADE or #1 Royals/CVG grades provide the cleanest, most uniform appearance with fewer knots.
- Are longer shingles better for roofing? – Longer shingles offer wider exposure and can reduce seams, but require careful handling and alignment.
- Is kiln-dried cedar necessary? – Kiln-dried cedar improves dimensional stability, simplifying installation and reducing warping risks.
- Can cedar shingles be used for both roof and sidewall applications? – Yes, many cedar shingles are suitable for both roofing and siding, with specific products designed for each use (e.g., under-coursing vs. sidewall R&R).
- How should cedar be maintained after installation? – Regular sealing or staining as recommended by the manufacturer helps preserve color and resist moisture; inspect for warping or checks over time.
- What is best for a budget installation? – Bulk shingles with 20–25 square feet coverage offer lower per-square-foot costs while still using natural cedar.