Choosing between shingles and shakes starts with the job: these 12 options range from cedar roofing and sidewall materials to asphalt tabs, decorative trim, and miniature dollhouse pieces. My best overall pick is the 18-inch #1 Perfections Western Red Cedar Shingles, which pair a defined grade and clear vertical grain with kiln-dried cedar. For a heavier, more rustic roof, the 24-inch #1 Royals offer a longer cedar format, while CertainTeed Cedar Impressions suit buyers seeking shake-style siding rather than individual wood pieces. The main tradeoffs are material, intended use, appearance, and how much installation planning each format requires. Keep reading for the full breakdown and guidance on matching a product to your project.
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Key Takeaways
- The lineup covers different jobs, not interchangeable materials: cedar roofing, cedar sidewall shingles, siding panels, asphalt tabs, decorative pieces, and dollhouse shingles each serve distinct purposes.
- The 18-inch #1 Perfections rank first for a balanced cedar-roofing choice: the listed grade, clear vertical grain, and kiln-dried construction provide more defined selection criteria than several cedar listings with fewer specifications.
- Longer cedar pieces change the look and coverage plan: the 24-inch #1 Royals and 24-inch Heavy Handsplit Shakes favor a more substantial roof appearance than the 18-inch options.
- Asphalt 3-tab packs prioritize a different kind of project: the black, brown, and tan options offer color choice, but their small pack quantities call for careful coverage calculations before ordering.
- Use labels and dimensions to avoid a category mismatch: sidewall shingles, decorative rounds, and 1:12-scale dollhouse shingles are not substitutes for full-size roof shingles or shake siding.
| shingles shake | Material | Brand | Coverage | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 18-Inch #4 Kiln-Dried Western | Western Red Cedar | Miller Shingle | Approximately 100 sq. ft. at 14-inch exposure or 50 sq. ft. at 7-inch exposure | #4 utility grade |
| Miller MasterCut Round Decorat | Wood | — | 100 sq. ft. per 4 cartons at 7-inch exposure | #1 |
| Xuhal 1:12 Scale Dollhouse Fis | Cedar-grain wood | Xuhal | — | — |
| CIPER Roofing Shingles 3-Tab B | Asphalt shingle | CIPER | — | — |
| Miller Shingle 18-Inch Primed | Cedar wood | Miller Shingle | 50 sq. ft. at 14-inch double-course exposure; 28.5 sq. ft. at 8-inch single-course exposure | #1, high grade |
| 24" #1 Royals Western Red Ceda | Western Red Cedar, clear vertical grain | A&R | Approximately 4 bundles per 100 sq. ft. at 7½-inch exposure | #1 Royals, Certi-Grade |
| Brown 3-Tab Asphalt Roofing Sh | Asphalt | DLH Western | Approximately 12 sq. ft. | — |
| 18" #1 Perfections Western Red | Western Red Cedar | — | Approximately 25 sq. ft. per carton | #1 Perfections |
| CertainTeed Cedar Impressions | Polymer | CertainTeed | — | — |
| Tan 3-Tab Asphalt Roofing Shin | Asphalt | DLH Western | Approximately 12 sq. ft. | Residential |
| Briwooody Western Red Cedar Sh | Western red cedar wood | Briwooody | — | — |
| 24 in. Western Red Cedar #1 Gr | Western red cedar wood | — | 20.56 sq ft per bundle at 10-inch exposure | #1 |
More Details on Our Top Picks
18-Inch #4 Kiln-Dried Western Red Cedar Undercourse Sidewall Shingles, 1-Square Carton
I’d choose these #4 utility-grade cedar shingles for the concealed or starter layers of a sidewall job, not for a finished roof. Their main advantage over the Miller Shingle #1 Primed Natural-Groove Cedar Sidewall Shingles is the larger stated coverage: one carton covers about 100 square feet at 14-inch exposure, or 50 square feet at 7-inch exposure. That makes estimating easier when the job calls for those layouts. The tradeoff is grade and purpose: these are utility shingles for undercoursing, while the #1 grooved product is the more suitable choice when you want a higher-grade, finished sidewall surface. I would skip this carton for exposed roofing or decorative shake work; the manufacturer identifies it for sidewalls and starter rows, not roof installation.
Pros:- Kiln-dried Western Red Cedar
- Intended specifically for sidewall undercoursing and starter rows
- Coverage figures are provided for 14-inch and 7-inch exposures
- 250 pieces in a one-square carton
Cons:- Utility-grade material is a less suitable choice for a premium exposed finish
- Not recommended for roofing applications
Best for: Siding installers and homeowners buying cedar for sidewall undercoursing or starter rows who can use the listed exposure coverage.
Not ideal for: Roofers or buyers seeking a finished, exposed cedar roof; this utility-grade product is not recommended for roofing.
- Brand:Miller Shingle
- Material:Western Red Cedar
- Grade:#4 utility grade
- Length:18 inches
- Package:1-square carton; 250 pieces
- Coverage:Approximately 100 sq. ft. at 14-inch exposure or 50 sq. ft. at 7-inch exposure
- Intended use:Sidewall undercoursing and starter rows
- Roofing use:Not recommended
Our verdict“Choose this carton for cedar sidewall starter and undercourse work, but select a roofing-rated product or higher-grade finish shingle for exposed surfaces.”
Miller MasterCut Round Decorative Cedar Shingles, 104 Pieces
The round-cut profile gives this Miller MasterCut set a more ornamental look than the rectangular Miller undercourse shingles, so I’d place it on a visible accent area rather than use it as a basic starter layer. The shingles are made from #1 siding stock and sanded on one face, which suits a finish where the exposed surface matters. Coverage is less convenient to estimate than a single-carton product: the stated 100 square feet at 7-inch exposure requires four cartons. Compared with the #1 Primed Natural-Groove Cedar Sidewall Shingles, this pick brings a distinct scalloped pattern, but it does not offer the same stated primed finish or exposure options. I’d pass if the project needs economical, straightforward rectangular coverage or if matching a conventional shingle course is the priority.
Pros:- Distinctive round decorative pattern
- Made from #1 grade siding shingles
- One face is sanded for a finished exposed surface
- Made in Granite Falls, Washington, USA
Cons:- 100-square-foot coverage at 7-inch exposure requires four cartons
- Round pattern is less suited to conventional rectangular shingle layouts
Best for: Homeowners and siding contractors creating a decorative cedar accent wall or round-pattern detail with visible wood surfaces.
Not ideal for: Buyers covering broad, plain wall areas or seeking a primed rectangular shingle with clearly stated single-carton coverage.
- Material:Wood
- Grade:#1
- Pattern:Round
- Shingle dimensions:17 inches long by 4 15/16 inches wide
- Pieces per carton:104
- Coverage:100 sq. ft. per 4 cartons at 7-inch exposure
- Item weight:30 pounds
- Made in:Granite Falls, Washington, USA
Our verdict“Pick these for a visible round-pattern cedar accent, rather than for simple, coverage-focused sidewall work.”
Xuhal 1:12 Scale Dollhouse Fish Scale Roof Shingles – Light Brown
This is the lineup’s miniature option, built for a 1:12-scale model roof rather than a house or shed. The 1,000 cedar-grain wood pieces form a fish-scale pattern, a look that full-size options such as the Miller MasterCut Round Decorative Cedar Shingles cannot reproduce at dollhouse scale. Each piece can be painted, stained, or kept light brown, giving model builders room to coordinate a roof with a specific façade. That flexibility comes with hands-on work: the small pieces may be awkward to place without tweezers, and the listing gives no full-size coverage figure. Compared with the CIPER asphalt shingles, this set is for careful craft construction, not weather protection. I’d skip it for any actual roof, outdoor repair, or project that needs full-size building materials.
Pros:- Includes 1,000 pieces for multiple miniature projects
- Fish-scale pattern adds a decorative model-roof appearance
- Can be painted, stained, or left light brown
- Lightweight wood pieces are suited to miniature construction
Cons:- Small pieces can be difficult to handle without tweezers
- Only one listed color, so a different finish requires customization
- No full-size roofing coverage or weather-protection application is specified
Best for: Dollhouse builders and miniature craft hobbyists working at 1:12 scale who want a customizable fish-scale wood roof.
Not ideal for: Homeowners or contractors roofing a full-size structure; these are miniature craft pieces, not construction shingles.
- Brand:Xuhal
- Scale:1:12
- Material:Cedar-grain wood
- Piece size:1.25 x 0.71 x 0.11 inches
- Unit count:1,000 pieces
- Color:Light brown
- Recommended age:12+ years
- Item dimensions:12.2 x 7.68 x 2.56 inches
Our verdict“Choose this set for a customizable 1:12 dollhouse roof, not for full-size roofing or repair work.”
CIPER Roofing Shingles 3-Tab Black 8-Pack 39.4″ x 13.1″
For a shed patch or other small asphalt-roof job, the three-tab format makes this a more practical choice than cedar shakes, which bring a different material and appearance. CIPER lists wind resistance up to 60 mph and supplies six galvanized nails per shingle, reducing the need to source basic fasteners separately. That convenience is limited to small projects: the pack contains only eight shingles, and the black color is the sole listed option. Compared with the 24-inch Western Red Cedar #1 Grade Heavy Handsplit Shakes elsewhere in the roundup, this is a straightforward asphalt repair material, not a wood-shake substitute for a cedar finish. I’d check the repair dimensions and installation needs before buying; the included nails do not remove the need for appropriate tools or additional materials on a larger roof.
Pros:- Three-tab asphalt format suits small repair and DIY roofing jobs
- Listed wind resistance up to 60 mph
- Six galvanized nails are included per shingle
- Protective film and wooden boards are used for packaging
Cons:- Eight shingles are intended for small projects, not a full roof installation
- Black is the only listed color
- Larger jobs may require additional tools and roofing accessories
Best for: DIY homeowners patching a small black three-tab asphalt roof on a shed, pet house, or similarly limited structure.
Not ideal for: Buyers installing a large roof or seeking the texture and material character of cedar shakes; this is an eight-shingle asphalt pack.
- Brand:CIPER
- Material:Asphalt shingle
- Style:3-tab
- Color:Black
- Pack quantity:8 shingles
- Shingle dimensions:39.4 x 13.1 inches
- Listed wind resistance:Up to 60 mph
- Included fasteners:Six galvanized nails per shingle
Our verdict“Buy this pack for a small black asphalt-roof repair, but choose cedar shakes or a larger roofing supply for a broader installation.”
Miller Shingle 18-Inch Primed Natural-Groove Cedar Sidewall Shingles, 1/2-Square Carton
For an exposed cedar wall where finish quality matters more than broad coverage, I’d favor this #1 grade, kiln-dried cedar over the #4 utility-grade undercourse shingles. Its natural groove on one side adds texture to the finished surface, and the primed finish gives buyers a prepared starting point for a painted exterior. Coverage is the main tradeoff: this half-square carton covers 50 square feet at 14-inch double-course exposure, but only 28.5 square feet at 8-inch single-course exposure. Double-course installation also needs an under-course, unlike a simple one-layer assumption. Compared with the Miller MasterCut Round Decorative Cedar Shingles, this option favors a grooved rectangular finish over a round ornamental pattern. I’d choose it for a conventional cedar sidewall, but not for roof work or when minimizing installation layers is the goal.
Pros:- #1 grade kiln-dried cedar
- Natural groove on one side adds surface texture
- Primed finish provides a prepared base for sidewall finishing
- Coverage is specified for two exposure configurations
Cons:- Half-square carton covers 28.5 square feet at 8-inch single-course exposure
- Double-course installation requires an under-course
- Specified for sidewall application rather than roofing
Best for: Homeowners and siding installers seeking a higher-grade, primed cedar shingle for an exposed sidewall with a natural grooved face.
Not ideal for: Roofing buyers or those wanting a high-coverage carton and a simple installation without an under-course for double-course exposure.
- Brand:Miller Shingle
- Material:Cedar wood
- Grade:#1, high grade
- Length:18 inches
- Finish:Primed, natural groove on one side
- Application:Sidewall
- Coverage:50 sq. ft. at 14-inch double-course exposure; 28.5 sq. ft. at 8-inch single-course exposure
- Package:1 half-square carton; 30 pounds
Our verdict“Choose this for a higher-grade, primed grooved cedar sidewall, provided its exposure coverage and installation layers fit the project.”
24″ #1 Royals Western Red Cedar Shingles – Certi‑Grade, Clear Vertical Grain, Kiln Dried
For a cedar shake-style exterior where appearance and longer shingle length matter, I’d put these #1 Royals Western Red Cedar shingles ahead of the shorter 18-inch #1 Perfections option. Their 24-inch length allows wider exposure choices, which can mean fewer courses for a given area, while clear vertical grain and kiln drying support a cleaner look and better dimensional stability. Certi-Grade adds a consistency check that is useful on visible siding or roofing work. The tradeoff is scale: this listing is one bundle, roughly a quarter square, so a full project requires multiple bundles and careful quantity planning. Widths are random, too, so installers need to manage course layout for an even appearance. I’d choose these for premium cedar character, not for a quick, low-cost patch.
Pros:- Clear vertical grain and #1 Royals grade suit prominent exterior areas
- Kiln-dried cedar supports improved dimensional stability
- 24-inch length permits wider exposure options than 18-inch shingles
- Certi-Grade certification supports consistency across the material
Cons:- One bundle covers only about a quarter square, so larger jobs need several bundles
- Random widths take more planning to maintain a uniform course appearance
Best for: Homeowners or contractors specifying premium, longer-length cedar shingles for visible siding or roofing and willing to plan around multiple bundles and random widths
Not ideal for: Buyers completing a large project on a tight materials budget or seeking a small, predictable repair pack
- Brand:A&R
- Length:24 inches
- Nominal thickness:0.5 inches
- Grade:#1 Royals, Certi-Grade
- Material:Western Red Cedar, clear vertical grain
- Coverage:Approximately 4 bundles per 100 sq. ft. at 7½-inch exposure
- Pack quantity:1 bundle (quarter square)
Our verdict“Choose these for a premium, longer-length cedar finish; skip them if limited coverage and layout work do not suit your project.”
Brown 3-Tab Asphalt Roofing Shingles, 8 Count
This eight-piece set is a practical repair choice when a few brown 3-tab asphalt shingles need replacing on a home or shed. Each shingle measures 39.4 by 13.1 inches, and the pack covers about 12 square feet, making its scope clearer than ordering cedar by the bundle for a tiny fix. Its stated wind resistance up to 60 mph gives buyers a basic performance reference, though it is not a substitute for matching the roof’s existing material and installation requirements. Compared with the tan DLH Western 3-Tab Asphalt Roofing Shingles, the key difference is color rather than format or coverage. The main limitation is the small pack: it is not a full bundle and won’t suit a broad reroof. I’d select it for a localized brown-shingle repair, not a shake-style cedar look.
Pros:- Eight-shingle pack is suited to localized repairs
- Approximately 12 square feet of stated coverage
- Brown color offers an alternative to the tan version in this lineup
- Designed for wind resistance up to 60 mph
Cons:- Eight shingles are not a full bundle, limiting use on larger areas
- Asphalt 3-tab styling does not reproduce a cedar shake profile
Best for: Homeowners or shed owners replacing a few brown 3-tab asphalt shingles on a small, compatible roof area
Not ideal for: Buyers covering a full roof or seeking the textured wood appearance of cedar shakes
- Brand:DLH Western
- Material:Asphalt
- Color:Brown
- Style:3-tab
- Quantity:8 shingles
- Coverage:Approximately 12 sq. ft.
- Dimensions per shingle:39.4 × 13.1 inches
- Wind resistance:Up to 60 mph
Our verdict“Pick this pack for a small repair that needs brown 3-tab shingles, but choose another material and format for a shake-style renovation.”
18″ #1 Perfections Western Red Cedar Shingles, CERTI-Grade, Clear Vertical Grain, Kiln Dried
I’d choose these 18-inch #1 Perfections shingles when a project calls for a refined cedar finish in a more standard length than the 24-inch #1 Royals. Clear vertical grain, minimal knots, and kiln drying give them a clean appearance and help limit movement associated with moisture changes. Their 25-square-foot carton coverage also gives project planners a defined starting point, unlike the small repair packs of asphalt shingles elsewhere in this roundup. The shorter length can be easier to work into conventional course layouts, but it gives up the wider exposure options of the 24-inch Royals. Random widths from 4 to 14 inches still require sorting and a deliberate layout, and the listed carton weight range is broad. This is a premium cedar choice, not the simplest option for buyers who prioritize uniform dimensions or minimal handling.
Pros:- Minimal knots and clear vertical grain support a refined appearance
- Kiln-dried Western Red Cedar is suited to stable exterior installations
- CERTI-Grade certification provides a consistent industry grade
- Carton coverage is stated at approximately 25 square feet
Cons:- Random widths require sorting and planning for an even visual layout
- Carton weight varies from 50 to 80 pounds
- 18-inch length offers less exposure flexibility than the 24-inch #1 Royals
Best for: Homeowners and installers seeking certified, kiln-dried 18-inch cedar shingles for a clean-looking siding or roofing project
Not ideal for: Buyers who need fixed-width pieces, a lighter predictable carton, or the wider exposure choices of 24-inch shingles
- Length:18 inches
- Grade:#1 Perfections
- Material:Western Red Cedar
- Grain:Clear vertical grain
- Certification:CERTI-Grade
- Drying method:Kiln dried
- Coverage:Approximately 25 sq. ft. per carton
- Width range:4 to 14 inches, random
- Bundle weight:50–80 lb.
Our verdict“Choose these for a polished, certified 18-inch cedar installation if you can accommodate random widths and variable carton weight.”
CertainTeed Cedar Impressions Double 9-Inch Staggered Rough-Split Shakes Siding, Mountain Cedar
If the goal is a shake-like exterior without maintaining real cedar, this CertainTeed panel is the clearest alternative to the natural wood shingles in this group. Its staggered rough-split texture and defined shadow lines evoke cedar shakes, while polymer construction reduces the upkeep associated with wood. Built-in nail indicators help guide installation, and the stated hurricane-force wind engineering may appeal to buyers in exposed locations. The difference is material and format: this is vinyl siding in panels, not individual cedar shingles, so it won’t provide the same natural grain or aging variation as the #1 Perfections or #1 Royals. It also requires 1-inch J-channel, a specific trim condition that can affect compatibility with existing work. I’d shortlist it for a lower-maintenance shake appearance, not for a true wood-shingle restoration.
Pros:- Rough-split texture and shadow lines create a shake-inspired appearance
- Polymer construction offers a lower-maintenance alternative to natural cedar
- Built-in nail indicators support installation alignment
- Designed to withstand hurricane-force winds
Cons:- Requires 1-inch J-channel, which can limit compatibility with existing trim
- Polymer panels do not provide genuine cedar grain or natural wood variation
Best for: Homeowners who want a low-maintenance, shake-textured siding appearance and are prepared to use compatible 1-inch J-channel
Not ideal for: Buyers restoring authentic cedar shingles or matching natural wood grain and individual-shingle variation
- Brand:CertainTeed
- Material:Polymer
- Color:Mountain Cedar
- Design:Double 9-inch staggered rough-split shakes
- Panel dimensions:57 inches long × 18 inches wide
- Panel thickness:0.125 inches
- Panel projection:1 inch
- Pieces per carton:7
- Warranty:Limited lifetime
Our verdict“Choose this panel for lower-maintenance shake-style siding, but choose real cedar if authentic wood character is the priority.”
Tan 3-Tab Asphalt Roofing Shingles, 39.4 x 13.1 Inches, 8 Count
For a small roof repair where tan is a closer color match, this eight-count pack offers the same basic 3-tab format and approximate coverage as the brown DLH Western shingles. The stated 12-square-foot coverage and 39.4-by-13.1-inch dimensions help buyers estimate whether the pack fits a localized job; wind resistance is listed up to 60 mph. Its distinct role is color-specific replacement rather than a cedar-shake upgrade. Compared with CertainTeed Cedar Impressions, it is a conventional asphalt roofing product, not shake-textured siding; compared with natural cedar options, it gives up wood grain and variation. The pack is deliberately limited, so a full roof or larger repair needs more material and careful matching. I’d choose it when tan 3-tab shingles suit the existing roof, not when the project is meant to change its style.
Pros:- Tan color can suit repairs on roofs where brown would be a poor match
- Approximately 12 square feet of stated coverage
- Standard 3-tab format is intended for small repairs and projects
- Designed for wind resistance up to 60 mph
Cons:- Eight shingles provide limited coverage and are not a full bundle
- Conventional asphalt appearance lacks cedar shake texture
Best for: Homeowners repairing a small roof area with existing tan 3-tab asphalt shingles, including sheds and other modest structures
Not ideal for: Buyers reroofing a large area or seeking natural cedar shingles or shake-textured siding
- Brand:DLH Western
- Material:Asphalt
- Color:Tan
- Style:3-tab
- Dimensions per shingle:39.4 × 13.1 inches
- Quantity:8 shingles
- Coverage:Approximately 12 sq. ft.
- Wind resistance:Up to 60 mph
- Grade:Residential
Our verdict“Buy this for a small tan 3-tab repair; look elsewhere if you need broad coverage or a genuine shake appearance.”
Briwooody Western Red Cedar Shingles, 18-Inch, 64 Pieces
For a shed, garage, or modest restoration job, this 64-piece set offers a manageable quantity of tapered Western red cedar shingles. Each piece measures about 18 inches long, and the listed coverage is approximately 20–25 square feet, though overlap and cuts affect the final area. The thin-to-thick profile supports layered installation, while the reddish-brown grain keeps the wood’s natural appearance visible. Compared with the 24 in. Western Red Cedar #1 Grade Heavy Handsplit Shakes, these are shorter and described as tapered shingles rather than thick, hand-split shakes, so they suit a more uniform finish than a strongly rustic one. The tradeoff is that the coverage estimate is not a layout guarantee: buyers need to plan for waste, underlayment, fastening, and applicable codes before ordering or installing.
Pros:- Western red cedar has visible natural grain and reddish-brown color.
- Tapered profile supports layered installation.
- Suitable for roofing, siding, sheds, garages, and restoration projects.
- Provides an approximate coverage range for initial planning.
Cons:- Actual coverage varies with overlap, spacing, trimming, and layout.
- Installation planning must account for underlayment, fasteners, and local codes.
- The listed quantity may be insufficient for larger projects.
Best for: DIY builders or renovators covering a small shed, garage, exterior wall, or limited restoration area with natural cedar.
Not ideal for: Buyers covering a large roof or seeking thick, hand-split rustic shakes; the 64-piece quantity and variable coverage require careful planning and may not suit either need.
- Brand:Briwooody
- Material:Western red cedar wood
- Quantity:64 shingles
- Approximate coverage:20–25 sq ft, depending on overlap and layout
- Dimensions:17.91 × 5.79 × 0.63 inches
- Thickness profile:Approximately 0.6 inches at butt end and 0.1 inches at tapered end
- Color:Reddish-brown
- Shape:Rectangular
- Model number:RRY-Briwooody-170
Our verdict“Choose this set for a small project where natural cedar and a tapered shingle profile matter more than a rustic hand-split look or broad coverage.”
24 in. Western Red Cedar #1 Grade Heavy Handsplit Shakes
These 24-inch, #1 grade shakes are the more characterful choice in this pair, with a hand-split surface that gives a roof or sidewall visible texture. The listed coverage is 20.56 square feet per bundle at 10-inch exposure, giving buyers a defined planning reference rather than the Briwooody shingles’ broader 20–25-square-foot estimate. At 0.75 inches thick and 45 pounds per bundle, these are substantial shakes, not a lightweight, smooth-looking shingle option. Cedar can provide natural insulation and weather resistance when installed correctly, and the wood may be left to weather gray or stained. Compared with the Briwooody 18-inch shingles, this pick prioritizes rustic dimension and a stated grade over a smaller-piece format. Its tradeoffs are the bundle’s weight and the need to follow installation requirements, including any local restrictions on cedar roofing or siding.
Pros:- Hand-split surface adds rustic texture and dimensional character.
- #1 grade Western red cedar is specified.
- Coverage is stated for a 10-inch exposure.
- Can weather naturally to silvery gray or be stained.
Cons:- The 45-pound bundle is substantial to handle.
- Weather resistance depends on proper installation.
- Local codes may restrict cedar roofing or siding applications.
Best for: Homeowners and contractors seeking #1 grade Western red cedar with a pronounced hand-split texture for a roof or sidewall project.
Not ideal for: Buyers who want a smooth, uniform finish, lighter materials, or a straightforward installation without checking local roofing and siding requirements.
- Material:Western red cedar wood
- Grade:#1
- Length:24 inches
- Thickness:0.75 inches
- Coverage:20.56 sq ft per bundle at 10-inch exposure
- Recommended exposure:10 inches
- Weight:45 pounds
- Color:Natural cedar with organic color variation
- Application:Roofing or sidewall siding
Our verdict“Pick these shakes when a substantial hand-split cedar appearance matters more than easy handling or the Briwooody set’s smaller-project format.”
How We Picked
I compared the 12 listings by intended use, material, dimensions, and stated construction details, then ranked them by how clearly a buyer can match the product to a real project. Cedar roof products received stronger placement when the listing supplied useful details such as grade, length, grain, or drying method; products labeled for sidewalls, siding, decoration, or dollhouses were judged within those narrower roles rather than treated as general roofing choices.
I also weighed format, visual effect, and planning demands. The ranking favors versatile, well-specified options over listings with limited information, while giving specialty products credit when their intended use is clear. Asphalt packs are useful for buyers seeking tab shingles, but their eight-piece quantity makes coverage checks especially important. Because the lineup includes unlike products and does not provide a shared coverage or installation specification, I do not treat them as direct substitutes or infer performance details absent from the listings.
| shingles shake | Grade |
|---|---|
| 18-Inch #4 Kiln-Dried Western | #4 utility grade |
| Miller MasterCut Round Decorat | #1 |
| Xuhal 1:12 Scale Dollhouse Fis | — |
| CIPER Roofing Shingles 3-Tab B | — |
| Miller Shingle 18-Inch Primed | #1, high grade |
| 24" #1 Royals Western Red Ceda | #1 Royals, Certi-Grade |
| Brown 3-Tab Asphalt Roofing Sh | — |
| 18" #1 Perfections Western Red | #1 Perfections |
| CertainTeed Cedar Impressions | — |
| Tan 3-Tab Asphalt Roofing Shin | Residential |
| Briwooody Western Red Cedar Sh | — |
| 24 in. Western Red Cedar #1 Gr | #1 |
Factors to Consider When Choosing Shingles Shakes
Before choosing from this roundup, identify whether you need a roof covering, a sidewall finish, shake-style siding, or a small decorative or model-building material. Product names can sound similar while describing very different scales and installation roles. These checks can help prevent a good-looking order from being the wrong material for the job.
Match the Product to Roof, Wall, or Decorative Use
Start with the surface and assembly you are working on, not the word “shingle.” Roofing shingles and sidewall shingles can differ in their intended placement and installation details, so do not assume one can replace the other. A shake-style siding product such as a panel system is a separate choice from individual cedar pieces. Decorative rounds and dollhouse shingles belong to specialty projects, not full-size weather-exposed surfaces. Check the manufacturer’s installation guidance and local requirements for your exact application before ordering. A product title alone is not proof that it suits a particular roof or wall.
Choose Cedar or Asphalt for the Look and Project Scope
Cedar and asphalt represent different material choices, not just different colors. Cedar options in this roundup vary by grade, length, grain, and whether the product is a shingle or a handsplit shake, which can affect the appearance you are aiming for and the way you plan the layout. Asphalt 3-tab products offer a more uniform tabbed format, with black, brown, and tan color options here. Avoid choosing by color alone: verify that the product is intended for your application and that its installation requirements suit the existing roof or wall assembly. If visual consistency matters, compare sample pieces or confirm the manufacturer’s color and finish information before committing.
Read Grade, Grain, Length, and Format as Separate Clues
A label such as #1 grade or clear vertical grain tells you more about the listed material selection than a title that only says cedar. Length also matters: an 18-inch piece and a 24-inch piece can create different visual proportions and call for different layout planning. A handsplit shake is not simply a longer shingle; its rougher, more substantial appearance is part of its appeal. Compare the full specification rather than treating grade, dimensions, and product style as interchangeable quality signals. When a listing omits a detail you need, ask the seller or manufacturer instead of filling the gap with assumptions.
Calculate Coverage Before Ordering Small Packs
Pack count is not coverage, and an eight-piece listing does not by itself tell you how much roof area it will cover. Coverage can depend on piece dimensions, exposure, course overlap, roof shape, and installation instructions. Measure the area, account for valleys, edges, cuts, and waste, then use the manufacturer’s stated coverage guidance to calculate quantities. This check matters especially for the asphalt packs in this roundup, where the listed count is limited. For cedar products sold by carton or piece count, confirm whether the stated coverage assumes a particular exposure or layout before comparing quantities.
Plan for Installation Requirements and Local Rules
Shingles and shakes rely on correct fastening, spacing, underlayment, and flashing details; the exact requirements depend on the product and project. Follow the product-specific instructions rather than applying one material’s installation habits to another. Confirm that the roof structure and existing layers are suitable, and check local building rules before purchasing materials. Wind, fire, and other project requirements may affect which products are permitted, so seek documentation for the exact item. If the job involves a full roof or a complicated roofline, getting a qualified installer’s input early can prevent costly material mismatches.
Decide When More Product Detail Is Worth Prioritizing
When choosing between similar-looking cedar listings, clearer information about grade, grain, drying, and dimensions makes comparison easier. That does not prove a product will outperform another, but it gives you a better basis for checking suitability and planning installation. A lower-detail listing may still fit a small or specific project, yet it leaves more questions for the buyer to resolve. Ask about coverage, intended use, packaging, and applicable installation documents before purchase. Paying attention to specifications is most useful when you need consistent appearance across a large area or must meet project requirements.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use cedar sidewall shingles on a roof?
Do not assume so from the word “shingles.” The 18-inch undercourse and primed natural-groove products in this roundup are identified as sidewall shingles, while other cedar listings are presented as roofing shingles or shakes. Check the exact product documentation for approved use, installation details, and any applicable limitations. If the information is unclear, ask the manufacturer or a qualified installer before buying. Using a wall product on a roof without confirmation can create fit, installation, or compliance problems.
What is the practical difference between cedar shingles and handsplit shakes?
In this selection, cedar shingles are generally presented as more defined pieces, while the Heavy Handsplit Shakes are explicitly identified as a hand-split product. That distinction can shape the finished appearance and the layout, but the listing alone does not establish coverage, durability, or installation suitability. Compare the manufacturer’s specifications for thickness, exposure, fastening, and intended application before deciding. Choose the shake format for the look you want only after confirming it works with your roof design and local requirements.
How do I know how many 3-tab asphalt packs to buy?
The listed eight-piece count is not enough to calculate coverage on its own. Measure the roof area and check the product’s stated coverage per piece or pack, including the recommended exposure and overlap. Add allowance for cuts, edges, valleys, and other waste based on the roof layout. If the seller does not provide usable coverage information, request it before ordering rather than estimating from the package count. Also verify that the chosen color and product are suitable for the intended installation.
Should I choose 18-inch or 24-inch cedar pieces?
Choose based on the product’s approved use, desired appearance, and installation layout rather than length alone. The 24-inch Royals and Heavy Handsplit Shakes offer a longer format than the 18-inch cedar options in this roundup, which may produce a different visual scale. Longer pieces can also affect exposure and quantity calculations, so follow the manufacturer’s layout guidance. Compare grade and construction details alongside dimensions; a longer piece is not automatically a better fit. Confirm availability and coverage information for the exact product before planning a full project.
Are dollhouse and decorative cedar shingles suitable for full-size roofing?
No: the 1:12-scale dollhouse shingles are explicitly miniature, and the round decorative cedar pieces are described as decorative. Their dimensions and stated roles do not make them substitutes for full-size roofing materials. For a roof or exterior wall, choose a product specifically identified and documented for that application. If the project is a craft, model, or small decorative feature, these specialty options may be relevant, but check their actual dimensions and intended use. Do not rely on similar-sounding product names to determine scale or weather suitability.
Conclusion
For most buyers seeking full-size cedar roofing, I recommend the 18-inch #1 Perfections Western Red Cedar Shingles as the best overall choice because the listing gives a useful combination of grade, grain, and kiln-dried details. The best value depends on the project: compare the Briwooody 18-inch pieces and the small asphalt packs by verified coverage and intended use, not pack count alone. For a more substantial cedar look, the 24-inch #1 Royals are my premium-leaning pick; the Heavy Handsplit Shakes suit buyers specifically after a rougher shake style. Beginners should start by confirming application and coverage with a clearly specified product, rather than ordering by appearance. For specific needs, choose CertainTeed Cedar Impressions for shake-style siding, the Miller products for sidewall or decorative uses, and Xuhal only for miniature work. The best choice is the one whose intended use, dimensions, and installation guidance match your project.
Halloween Picks
Vexalify 11-Inch Halloween Pumpkin Fog Machine with 12-Color Lights
10ft Halloween Inflatable Archway – Pumpkin Skeleton Yard Décor
Kalolary 11 ft Halloween Inflatable Archway Ghost House Tunnel
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