Wood shake & shingle calculator
Cedar shakes and shingles are estimated by bundles per square, and the count is set by exposure and pack.
Bundles per square
24" cedar shakes run about 5 bundles per square at 10" exposure; cedar shingles about 4 bundles per square. Reducing the exposure (for steeper coverage) raises the bundle count.
Eaves, rakes, and valleys
Shakes and shingles double along eaves and rakes — add about a bundle per 60 linear feet there. Add a bundle per roughly 25 linear feet of valley for the angled cuts.
Confirm your pack
Bundle packing (9/9, 12/12, 15/15) changes how much a bundle covers, so the same nominal product can need a different bundle count. Check with your supplier and override the default if it differs.
Suitable pitches
Wood shingles generally need at least 3:12; wood shakes at least 4:12. Below that, water sits too long for a shedding material that relies on slope.
Lifespan and upkeep
Cedar is attractive and long-lived when maintained, but it needs more upkeep than asphalt — cleaning, treatment, and fire-retardant considerations in some areas. Cost varies; enter your own rate to estimate.
Trade-offs
Natural look and good insulation against higher cost, more maintenance, fire-code restrictions in some regions, and slope requirements.