Adept Construction installed a new natural cedar shake roof on a brick two-story home in Naperville, IL in 2020. The fresh shakes still show their new golden color in the photos.
Project at a glance
- Location: Naperville, IL
- Completed: 2020
- Service: cedar shake roofing
- Material: natural cedar shakes
About the area
Naperville sits along the DuPage River in DuPage and Will counties, about 28 miles west of Chicago’s Loop. Naper Settlement credits Joseph Naper with founding the town in 1831.
What we checked
On a full replacement, the old shingles come off first so the crew can check the roof deck for soft or damaged wood before any new materials go down. That check decides whether the new roof starts on a sound base.
What we did
- Removed the old roof.
- Installed new natural cedar shakes over the main roof, front gables and garage.
The finished project
About natural cedar
New cedar shakes start out golden brown and weather to a silver-gray over the first few years. Cedar needs more upkeep than shingles, so many owners pair it with regular cleaning and treatment. Homeowners who want the look with less upkeep can compare it with composite shake.
Keeping it in good shape
- Keep moss and debris off the shakes. Cedar holds moisture where leaves and needles collect.
- Trim back branches so the roof gets sun and dries out after rain.
- Clean the gutters each fall after the leaves drop so melting snow and spring rain can drain away from the roof edge.
- Check the roof from the ground after severe storms. The National Weather Service Chicago office issues severe thunderstorm and high wind warnings for DuPage and Will counties, and lifted or missing shingles should be looked at before the next storm.
- Have cedar inspected every few years for split, cupped or loose shakes.
Frequently asked questions
Does Adept Construction install cedar shake roofs in Naperville, IL?
Yes. Adept Construction installed this natural cedar shake roof on a Naperville home in 2020.
What color does a cedar shake roof turn?
New cedar starts golden brown and weathers to a silver-gray over the first few years.
Do cedar shake roofs need maintenance?
Yes. Cedar holds moisture where debris collects, so regular cleaning and checks for split shakes help it last.
Is there a lower-maintenance option that looks like cedar?
Yes. Composite shakes copy the cedar look with less upkeep, and Adept installs both.
Planning a project in Naperville?
Adept Construction has served DuPage and Will County homeowners since 1997. See our Naperville roofing services and cedar shake roofing. You can also see more Adept projects or request a free roof estimate.
