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Considering a Cedar Roof in Maryland? Here’s What You Should Know Before Fall
Fall in Maryland and Northern Virginia isn’t just about football and foliage. It’s when roofing problems from the summer heat and humidity finally show up—and when small issues can quietly become big expenses. If you’re in the market for a new roof and love the look of cedar, you’re probably comparing cedar shake vs synthetic roofing and wondering which one makes more sense heading into colder, wetter weather.
As a homeowner, this isn’t just an aesthetic decision—it’s a financial one. Between materials, maintenance, and long-term performance, there’s real money at stake. And as a company that’s been replacing roofs across this region for 30+ years, we at AWS Restorations believe you should be informed, not sold to.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through:
- What cedar and synthetic cedar roofs are made of
- How they hold up during fall and winter in Maryland
- Cost, maintenance, code compliance, and installation factors
- Long-term value and resale implications
- What smart homeowners in Fairfax, Bethesda, and Rockville ask us all the time
Need an honest inspection before winter sets in? AWS Restorations can help—we offer free roof assessments within 24 hours.
Why This Roofing Choice Matters (Especially in Fall)
You’re not just replacing a roof—you’re protecting your single biggest investment: your home. Fall here brings rain, wind, leaf debris, and freeze-thaw cycles that test every seam and shingle. Choosing the wrong material (or the wrong installer) can cost you big later.
So let’s clear up the basics.
What Are We Comparing?
- Cedar Shake: Real wood, usually western red cedar, cut into thick, uneven “shakes.” Natural look, solid insulation, but needs upkeep.
- Synthetic Cedar: Made from engineered polymers or recycled materials. Mimics the look of wood but offers better durability, consistency, and fire resistance.
Cedar Shake vs. Synthetic Cedar: A Side-by-Side Breakdown
| Feature | Cedar Shake | Synthetic Cedar |
| Appearance | Rich, rustic, ages to silvery gray | Realistic wood texture, consistent color |
| Cost (Installed) | $9–$14 per sq ft | $7–$12 per sq ft |
| Maintenance | High—sealing, moss control, inspections | Low—occasional rinsing |
| Lifespan | 20–30 years (if maintained well) | 40–50 years |
| Mold Resistance | Susceptible | Excellent |
| Fire Rating | Class C (unless treated) | Class A (standard) |
| Code/HOA Friendly | Sometimes restricted | Easier to approve |
If you’re thinking long-term—with fall moisture, energy efficiency, and resale value in mind—synthetic cedar often comes out ahead.
What About Fire Ratings and Building Codes?
Let’s not sugarcoat it: untreated cedar is flammable. That’s a problem in wooded areas or neighborhoods with tighter code enforcement—think parts of Fairfax County or communities near Rock Creek Park.
Synthetic cedar roofing typically comes with a Class A fire rating out of the box. Many HOA boards, insurers, and local codes favor materials with strong fire resistance.
And yes, AWS Restorations can install fire-treated cedar shake too—but it adds to your cost and still won’t last as long as synthetic. We help clients understand these tradeoffs before committing.
Installation Realities: What You Need to Know This Fall
Fall is one of the busiest (and smartest) times to get a roof done. The weather’s cooler, and we’re not yet in the freeze cycle that complicates adhesives or install times. But not all materials install the same.
Cedar Shake Installation
- Takes longer due to hand-fitting
- Must be dry before install (wet cedar shrinks as it cures)
- Susceptible to delay if weather turns wet
Synthetic Cedar Installation
- Faster, with pre-molded pieces and faster layout
- Not moisture-sensitive
- Easier to handle in cooler temps
Bottom line: If you’re racing against the calendar, synthetic gets the job done faster and with less weather-related stress.
Let’s Talk Return on Investment
You might be wondering, “Does one option make more sense if I plan to sell in the next 5–10 years?”
- Cedar Shake: Boosts curb appeal in historic or high-end areas. But you’ll need to keep it looking sharp, or it could hurt resale.
- Synthetic Cedar: Longer lifespan, lower maintenance, and energy efficiency appeal to modern buyers and can boost home value.
At AWS, we break this down for you with side-by-side quotes—because we’ve seen what appraisers and inspectors look for in this region.
Cedar Roofing FAQs from Rockville Homeowners
Is cedar shake roofing a good fit for Maryland’s fall climate?
Cedar shake roofing can be a good fit for Maryland’s fall climate, but only if it’s properly maintained. Untreated cedar is vulnerable to moisture, moss, and leaf buildup—issues that are common during our wet fall seasons. If you’re in a tree-lined or shaded area, proactive care is essential.
How long does synthetic cedar roofing last?
Synthetic cedar roofing typically lasts 40 to 50 years, which is significantly longer than natural cedar shake—especially in areas with fluctuating fall and winter conditions. It holds up well against moisture and temperature swings common in the Mid-Atlantic.
Does synthetic roofing look fake?
Synthetic roofing does not look fake. High-quality products are engineered to replicate the grain, texture, and color variation of real cedar. In most installations, it’s hard to tell the difference from the curb.
Does AWS Restorations install both types of roofing?
Yes, AWS Restorations installs both natural cedar shake and synthetic cedar roofing systems. We help homeowners evaluate which material fits their style, budget, long-term plans, and seasonal performance needs.
What about maintenance—how do the two compare?
Synthetic cedar requires far less maintenance than cedar shake. While cedar must be cleaned, sealed, and monitored for moss or rot, synthetic products resist fall leaf buildup, moisture intrusion, and decay with minimal effort. This makes synthetic especially practical for homeowners in wooded neighborhoods during fall.
Do I need HOA approval to switch from cedar to synthetic?
Yes, you may need HOA approval if you’re switching from natural cedar to synthetic cedar. AWS Restorations provides support with documentation, samples, and approval materials to help you move through the process quickly.
How do I get started with an estimate or inspection?
To get started with a roof inspection or estimate, you can schedule a free appointment online. We’ll inspect your current roof, discuss your options, and give you a pressure-free quote with fall scheduling in mind.
Final Take: What’s the Smarter Move for Fall?
If you’re drawn to the classic look of cedar shake, we get it—it’s timeless. But if you’re also thinking about maintenance, performance in wet weather, code requirements, or how long you’ll stay in your home, synthetic cedar makes a strong case for itself.
At AWS Restorations, we don’t push products. We provide side-by-side facts so you can make the call that’s right for your home and your finances.
Schedule your free inspection today and make your roofing decision with confidence—before the fall weather turns against you.