Cedar shake roofing represents a premium, specialty material that demands specific knowledge for accurate estimation and successful insurance claims. This guide provides roofing contractors with essential information for navigating Cedar Shake supplement codes, documentation requirements, and common disputes with insurance adjusters.
Cedar shake differs fundamentally from asphalt shingles in composition, installation methodology, and longevity expectations. Authentic cedar shake consists of hand-split or machine-split cedar wood blocks, typically ranging from 16 to 24 inches in length and ½ to ¾ inches in thickness. Contractors must understand that cedar shake installations require specialized fastening techniques, including stainless steel or hot-dipped galvanized fasteners to prevent corrosion and material degradation. The material's natural variation, grain patterns, and moisture absorption characteristics necessitate specific spacing allowances and ventilation requirements that differ significantly from conventional roofing materials.
In Xactimate, cedar shake work falls under the "Roofing" category with specific codes distinguishing cedar shake from standard shingle work. Primary codes include: Roofing – Cedar Shake Removal (02 80 00), Cedar Shake Installation (02 32 13), and Cedar Shake Underlayment (02 31 00). When documenting cedar shake jobs, specify the shake grade (premium, standard, or utility), thickness, and length within each line item. Additional critical codes include Starter Course Cedar Shake, Ridge Cap Cedar Shake, and Valley treatments, which carry different pricing structures than standard asphalt equivalents. Labor rates for cedar shake installation typically run 30-50% higher than asphalt shingles due to specialized skill requirements and material handling protocols.
Adjusters frequently challenge cedar shake claims by misclassifying the material as standard shingles or questioning the necessity of specialized installation techniques. Counter this objection by providing detailed photographs clearly showing shake characteristics—the hand-split appearance, irregular widths, and natural grain patterns that distinguish authentic cedar from composite alternatives. Document the existing installation quality and justify premium labor rates by citing manufacturer specifications and industry standards from the Cedar Shake and Shingle Bureau. When adjusters question replacement with "like-kind" materials, demonstrate that cedar shake maintenance and replacement demands certified installers familiar with wood roofing protocols. Reference the National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA) guidelines for wood shake installations to establish professional standards backing your estimate.
Comprehensive documentation is critical for cedar shake claims. Photograph damage from multiple angles, capturing close-ups showing deterioration patterns, split shakes, missing pieces, and underlying substrate conditions. Document the roof's age through permits, prior inspection reports, or installation receipts. For storm damage, photograph impact points on higher-profile areas. Cedar shake deterioration presents differently than other materials—look for cupping, splitting along grain lines, moss or algae growth, and weather-side erosion. Create detailed notes describing the damage location, extent percentage per roof section, and affected square footage. Include measurements of accessible areas and note any safety concerns preventing complete inspection. This documentation prevents adjuster disputes regarding material condition and damage causation.
Maintain separate line-item organization for cedar shake supplements, distinguishing between original estimate items and supplemental discoveries. Create a Cedar Shake Job Master file template documenting material specifications, labor rates, disposal requirements, and common supplements encountered. Track discoveries such as substrate replacement, flashing upgrades, and ventilation modifications separately with corresponding photographic evidence. Implement color-coded supplement tracking—using distinct categories for structural issues, material upgrades, and code compliance additions. Maintain communication logs with adjusters regarding cedar shake-specific items, creating a paper trail documenting when supplemental items were disclosed and adjuster responses. This systematic approach streamlines communication, prevents duplicate submissions, and establishes clear supplement justification patterns that strengthen future claim negotiations.
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