What Made This Cedar Shake Roof Replacement Unique?
A cedar shake roof replacement involves removing the old wood shakes, re-sheeting the roof deck, and installing modern asphalt shingles that meet today’s fire and insurance standards.
When Skyline Contracting was called in for a cedar shake roof replacement at a home in Gainesville’s prestigious Chattahoochee Country Club, the project represented more than just a new roof—it was part of a full home transformation.
The homeowner had big plans for her 1987-built property: a new open-concept design with a spacious in-law suite addition. But as with any remodel, one challenge led to another—and in this case, the roof quickly became a key piece of the puzzle.
Our team met the project head-on, delivering superb results while keeping the character of our client’s home.
The Challenge: Updating a Classic Without Losing Character
This home still had its original cedar shake roof, which had served the homeowner well for nearly four decades. The rich, natural wood complemented the home’s timeless charm, and she loved the way it looked.
However, when it came time to roof the new addition, her team faced a dilemma: how to blend new and old roofing materials seamlessly—and how to ensure the entire roof met today’s safety and insurance standards.
Why Chattahoochee Homeowners Replace Cedar Shake Roofs Today
After contacting multiple insurers, our client learned that most carriers would no longer insure a home with a cedar shake roof due to its fire hazard risk. Even though she admired the aesthetic, practicality had to come first.
Many homeowners have faced similar decisions with wood shake roofs over the years. Despite the classic look, the risks create insurance issues.
Luckily, our team has strong experience working with homeowners in this situation, and we frequently recommend products that either emulate the look of wood shake or take the roof in a new direction that still adds beauty and elegance to the home.
The Solution: A Full Roof Replacement with GAF Asphalt Shingles
Instead of patching together new roofing on the addition and leaving the rest as-is, we recommended a complete roof replacement. Going this route would unify the home’s appearance and ensure consistent protection for decades to come.
The team selected GAF Timberline HDZ shingles in Oyster Grey, a premium architectural asphalt shingle known for its dimensional beauty and long-lasting performance. This choice gave the home a refined, modern aesthetic while including advanced features—a huge upgrade in both form and function compared to the original wood shakes.
Our Process: Precision, Coordination, and Care
The coordination between the remodel contractors and the Skyline Contracting crew was also critical. With multiple teams working together, timing had to be flawless to keep the remodel on track.
Replacing a cedar shake roof isn’t as simple as tearing off shingles and nailing down new ones. Cedar roofs are thicker and often built on spaced sheathing, so the team first had to:
- Reframe and re-sheet the roof deck to support the new asphalt shingles.
- Coordinate with remodel contractors to align schedules and protect exposed framing.
- Stage materials safely to avoid landscaping damage.
- Inspect each phase for proper ventilation and flashing integrity.
From tear-off to shingle installation, every step was carefully planned to maintain safety and minimize disruption for the homeowner. From the start, it was an all-hands-on-deck project for our team!
The Result: Beauty, Safety, and Long-Term Value
With the project reaching completion, the transformation is truly an impressive sight. The Oyster Grey shingles beautifully complement the home’s exterior, bringing a modern yet timeless look that fits right in with the neighborhood’s upscale aesthetic.
More importantly, our client can rest easy knowing her new roof:
- Meets current fire safety and insurance requirements,
- Offers enhanced weather resistance, crucial for Gainesville roofing systems, and
- Delivers energy efficiency and longevity far beyond her original cedar shake roof.
FAQs About Cedar Shake Roof Replacement
What is the main reason homeowners replace cedar shake roofs?
Most homeowners replace cedar shake roofs because insurance companies consider them a fire risk. Many carriers will not renew or issue policies for homes with wood shake roofs. Asphalt shingles offer a safer, longer-lasting alternative without losing curb appeal.
Can asphalt shingles look like cedar shake?
Yes! Premium architectural shingles, like the GAF Timberline HDZ® line used in this project, feature a dimensional texture that mimics the look of natural wood while offering superior protection and lower maintenance.
How long does a cedar shake roof replacement take?
The timeline depends on your roof’s size and whether structural updates are needed. In most Gainesville-area homes, a full tear-off, reframing, and asphalt re-roofing takes about one to two weeks from start to finish.
Is replacing a cedar shake roof more expensive than a standard asphalt replacement?
It can be slightly higher in cost because cedar shake roofs often require re-sheeting and structural reinforcement before new shingles can be installed. However, the investment pays off in safety, energy efficiency, and long-term durability.
Will my new asphalt roof handle Gainesville’s humid climate and storms?
Absolutely. Modern shingles are engineered for Georgia’s heat and heavy rainfall. The Oyster Grey GAF Timberline HDZ shingles installed here include advanced sealant technology and wind ratings up to 130 mph—ideal for Gainesville’s storm-prone weather.
Skyline Contracting: Modern Craftsmanship for Classic Homes
This cedar shake roof replacement project reflects what Skyline Contracting does best—blending expertise, innovation, and care to help homeowners make the right choices for their properties.
By transforming an aging cedar shake roof into a modern asphalt shingle system, Skyline preserved the beauty of a classic home while giving it the safety and performance of today’s roofing standards.
If you’re looking to upgrade your roof in Gainesville, GA, or in need of a replacement that will maintain your home’s character, Skyline Contracting has the expertise to get the job done right. Reach out to us today for an estimate!