Roofing
Cedar Shake
in Massachusetts
Cedar shake and cedar shingle roofs are a New England tradition, and Empire Building Construction installs them on homes across Massachusetts. A cedar roof starts honey-colored and weathers to silver-gray over the first few years.
Cedar needs to breathe. We install it over a breathable underlayment or a ventilated mat with the correct spacing between shingles, which is what separates a cedar roof that lasts decades from one that curls early.
Family-owned since 2017 · Fully insured and MA registered home improvement contractor · 3,000+ projects · 5.0 on Google from 38 reviews
Best for
- Capes, shingle-style and waterfront homes where the natural look matters
- Homeowners replacing an existing cedar roof who want to keep the character of the house
- Roofs with simple planes and good sun exposure, where cedar dries evenly
How we install it
- 01Remove the old roofing and inspect the deck, replacing any soft sections.
- 02Ice and water shield at the eaves and valleys, then a breathable underlayment or ventilated mat under the cedar.
- 03Hand-nail each course with stainless or hot-dipped galvanized nails, keeping the gap between shingles that cedar needs.
- 04Copper or lead-coated flashing at valleys, chimneys and walls, and a cedar ridge to finish.
Our projects
Cedar Shake roofs we installed
Other roofing options
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years in business
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professionals
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projects completed
Our Process
A clear process from the first call to the final walkthrough.
We keep every project simple to follow: you know what is happening, when it is happening and what comes next.
Step 01
Consultation & Inspection
We visit the property, listen to your goals and assess the current condition of the roof, siding, deck or structure.
Step 02
Clear Estimate & Planning
You receive a detailed estimate with scope, materials and timeline, plus guidance on the options that fit your budget.
Step 03
Professional Execution
Our licensed crew executes the work with care for your property, a clean jobsite and daily communication.
Step 04
Final Walkthrough
We review the finished work with you, answer final questions and leave the site clean and protected.
FAQ
Frequently asked
questions
Still have a question? Call us at (774) 223-0898 and talk directly with our team.
A properly installed and ventilated cedar roof lasts 30 years or more in Massachusetts. Installation over a solid, unventilated underlayment is the most common reason cedar roofs fail early.
Shakes are split and thicker, with a rougher texture. Shingles are sawn and smoother. Both are available in different grades, and we will show you samples at the estimate.
Yes, both in material and labor, because each piece is hand-nailed. It is a choice made for the look and the longevity, not the price.
Thinking about a cedar shake roof?
Send the form or call (774) 223-0898 and we will come out, measure the roof and give you a written estimate at no charge.