Honest Cedar Shake Assessments, No Pressure, No Upsell
Get a straight-talking inspection and written estimate from Greenwich's licensed & insured cedar shake specialists.
About the work
Cedar shake roofing brings a warmth and natural character to Greenwich homes that few materials can match — and when properly installed and maintained, it can last 30 years or more. At Ellsworth Slate & Copper, we give you an honest assessment of your cedar shake roof's condition: what genuinely needs attention, what can wait, and what's holding up just fine. Greenwich's humid summers, heavy leaf fall, and freeze-thaw winters do accelerate moss, mildew, and moisture wear on cedar, so we'll tell you exactly where your roof stands — no inflated repair lists, no pressure to replace when repair will do.
Proudly serving homeowners across Greenwich, CT and the surrounding communities — local roofers backed by our workmanship guarantee.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a cedar shake roof typically last?
A well-installed cedar shake roof can last 25–35 years, sometimes longer, depending on the grade of shake used, roof pitch, tree coverage, and how consistently it's maintained. In Greenwich's climate, annual or biennial inspections and periodic cleaning make a meaningful difference in longevity.
What does cedar shake roofing cost compared to asphalt shingles?
Cedar shake typically runs two to three times the installed cost of standard asphalt shingles, reflecting the premium material, skilled labor, and underlayment requirements. Exact pricing depends on your roof's size, pitch, and condition — which is why we provide a free, no-obligation written estimate before any work begins.
How does cedar shake hold up in Greenwich, CT's climate?
Cedar's natural oils give it solid resistance to the elements, but Greenwich's combination of wet springs, humid summers, and freeze-thaw cycles in winter can promote moss, algae, and moisture intrusion over time. Proper ventilation, a quality underlayment, and routine maintenance go a long way toward protecting cedar in this region.
Can my cedar shake roof be repaired, or does it need full replacement?
Many cedar shake roofs can be repaired — replacing split, curled, or missing shakes and addressing localized moisture damage — rather than replaced entirely. We'll give you an honest read on which option makes sense based on the overall condition of your roof, not on what generates the bigger job for us.
What maintenance does a cedar shake roof need?
Cedar shake benefits from periodic clearing of debris, moss, and algae buildup, along with inspection of flashings and ridgeline shakes. Depending on tree coverage and shade, a light cleaning every few years and targeted preservative treatment can significantly extend the roof's life.
Do you install new cedar shake roofs as well as repair existing ones?
Yes — Ellsworth Slate & Copper handles both new cedar shake installation and repair of existing cedar roofs in Greenwich and the surrounding area. Whether you're replacing an aging roof or addressing specific problem areas, our team works to the same standard of quality and backs it with a workmanship warranty.