What Does a Cedar Shake Roof Cost in Massachusetts?
Cedar shake roofing in Massachusetts costs between $10.00 and $18.00 per square foot installed in 2026. Cedar shingles — the thinner, machine-cut variety — run $8.00 to $14.00 per square foot installed. For a typical 1,800 square foot Colonial roof, that translates to $18,000 to $32,400 for hand-split cedar shakes or $14,400 to $25,200 for cedar shingles. These prices include materials, underlayment, flashing, ice and water shield at eaves and valleys, labor, and basic trim work.
Massachusetts is one of the strongest markets for cedar roofing in the United States. The state's deep architectural history — from Cape Cod cottages and Nantucket saltbox homes to Boston's Back Bay brownstones and Salem's colonial-era houses — has cemented cedar as the material of choice for homeowners who value authenticity and traditional New England character. Cedar roofing remains especially dominant on the Islands (Martha's Vineyard and Nantucket), Cape Cod, and in the dozens of historic districts scattered across the Commonwealth.
Massachusetts labor rates for cedar installation run 15-20% above the national average. This premium reflects the specialized carpentry skills required for proper cedar installation, the state's Construction Supervisor License (CSL) requirements, and the high demand for cedar-skilled roofers in coastal communities. Unlike asphalt shingle installation, which most roofing crews can perform, cedar shake and shingle installation requires experience with staggered exposure, proper gapping for expansion, and the unique fastening patterns that ensure decades of weather-tight performance.
Cedar Shakes vs Cedar Shingles: Understanding the Difference
The terms "cedar shake" and "cedar shingle" are often used interchangeably, but they are distinctly different products with different costs, appearances, and performance characteristics. Understanding this distinction is essential for Massachusetts homeowners because the choice affects both the aesthetic outcome and the total project cost by $2,000 to $7,000 on a typical home.
Cedar Shakes
$10–$18/sqft
Installed in Massachusetts
- ✓Hand-split with thick, rustic texture
- ✓1/2" to 3/4" thick — superior durability
- ✓Deep shadow lines and dimensional appearance
- ✓25-35 year lifespan with maintenance
- ✓Traditional Cape Cod and island aesthetic
Cedar Shingles
$8–$14/sqft
Installed in Massachusetts
- ✓Machine-sawn with smooth, uniform finish
- ✓3/8" to 1/2" thick — lighter weight
- ✓Sleek, refined appearance for Colonials
- ✓20-30 year lifespan with maintenance
- ✓Faster installation — lower labor cost
Project Cost Examples for Massachusetts
| Home Type & Roof Size | Cedar Shakes | Cedar Shingles |
|---|---|---|
| 1,200 sqft (Cape Cod) | $12,000–$21,600 | $9,600–$16,800 |
| 1,800 sqft (Colonial) | $18,000–$32,400 | $14,400–$25,200 |
| 2,200 sqft (Victorian) | $22,000–$39,600 | $17,600–$30,800 |
| 2,800 sqft (Large Colonial) | $28,000–$50,400 | $22,400–$39,200 |
Estimates include materials, labor, underlayment, ice and water shield, flashing, and basic trim. Complex roof geometries, steep pitches (above 8:12), and multi-story homes add 10-25%. Fire-retardant treatment adds $1.00-$2.50 per square foot.
Why Cedar Roofing Is So Popular in Massachusetts
Massachusetts has a stronger cultural and architectural attachment to cedar roofing than almost any other state. Several factors drive this enduring preference, from centuries of tradition to modern historic preservation requirements.
Cape Cod Architecture
The Cape Cod house — one of America's most enduring architectural styles — originated in Massachusetts in the 17th century and was traditionally roofed with cedar. The compact 1 to 1-1/2 story design with its steep roof pitch was specifically engineered to shed snow rapidly, and cedar's natural insulating properties helped early colonists survive harsh New England winters. Today, tens of thousands of Cape Cod-style homes across southeastern Massachusetts, the South Shore, and the actual Cape Cod peninsula maintain cedar roofs as both an aesthetic choice and a nod to the region's building heritage. For many Cape homeowners, replacing cedar with asphalt shingles is simply unthinkable.
Martha's Vineyard & Nantucket Tradition
On Nantucket, the Historic District Commission (HDC) essentially mandates cedar shingle roofing for the entire island. The silvery-gray patina of weathered cedar has become Nantucket's visual signature — so much so that the island's aesthetic is sometimes called "Nantucket Gray." Martha's Vineyard has similar, though slightly less restrictive, guidelines in its historic areas. Both islands command premium pricing: expect to pay 10-20% above mainland Massachusetts rates due to the cost of transporting materials by ferry, limited contractor availability on-island, and the exacting standards required by historic commissions. A cedar shake roof on Nantucket can cost $13.00-$22.00 per square foot installed.
Historic District Requirements
Massachusetts has more than 200 local historic districts regulated by Historic District Commissions, plus thousands of individually listed properties on the National Register of Historic Places. Many of these districts have guidelines that require or strongly recommend cedar roofing for properties built before a certain date. Boston's Beacon Hill, Salem's McIntire District, Lexington's Battle Green area, Concord Center, Plymouth's historic waterfront, and Deerfield's Historic District all have cedar roofing requirements for contributing structures. If your Massachusetts home is in a designated historic district, check with your local HDC before planning any roof replacement — you may be required to use cedar regardless of cost preference.
Natural Beauty & Weathering
Cedar's most unique characteristic is how it ages. Fresh cedar shakes are a warm reddish-brown that gradually transitions to a silvery gray over 2-5 years as the wood weathers naturally. This patina — caused by UV exposure and moisture — is considered highly desirable in New England, where the weathered cedar look has been part of the visual landscape for four centuries. No synthetic material perfectly replicates this natural aging process. In Massachusetts coastal communities, where salt air accelerates the weathering, cedar roofs develop their signature gray patina within 1-2 years. Many Massachusetts homeowners specifically choose cedar for this living, evolving appearance that connects their home to the regional architectural tradition.
Cedar Roof Maintenance Challenges in Massachusetts
Cedar roofing demands more ongoing maintenance than any other common residential roofing material. In Massachusetts, the combination of humid summers, heavy rainfall, dense tree canopy, and harsh winters creates conditions that accelerate cedar degradation if maintenance is neglected. Understanding these challenges upfront is critical for budgeting the true cost of cedar ownership.
Moss and Algae Growth
Massachusetts' humid summers and frequent rainfall create ideal conditions for moss, algae, and lichen colonization on cedar roofs. North-facing roof slopes and areas shaded by trees are especially vulnerable. Moss growth is more than cosmetic: moss roots penetrate cedar fibers, trapping moisture against the wood surface and accelerating rot. Left untreated, heavy moss growth can reduce a cedar roof's lifespan by 10-15 years. Treatment involves gentle application of zinc-based or copper-based moss killer (never pressure washing, which damages the cedar surface), followed by installation of zinc or copper ridge strips that release trace amounts of anti-fungal metal with each rainfall. Professional moss treatment in Massachusetts costs $400-$1,000 per application and should be done every 2-3 years.
Moisture and Humid Summers
Massachusetts summers average 70-80% relative humidity, with frequent rain events from June through September. Cedar is a hygroscopic material — it absorbs and releases moisture constantly. This repeated wet-dry cycling causes cedar to expand and contract, which over years can lead to cupping, splitting, and warping. The key to managing moisture in Massachusetts is ensuring adequate ventilation beneath the cedar. A properly installed cedar roof includes a minimum 3/8-inch airspace between the shakes/shingles and the underlayment, created by cedar breather mat or skip sheathing. This ventilation gap allows the underside of the cedar to dry between rain events, dramatically reducing moisture-related degradation. Homes with solid sheathing and no ventilation gap should expect 20-30% shorter cedar roof lifespans.
Winter Ice Damage
Ice dams are a significant concern for cedar roofs in Massachusetts. When heat escapes through the attic, snow on the upper roof melts and refreezes at the cold eaves, creating an ice dam that traps water. On cedar roofs, this trapped water can seep between shakes through capillary action and saturate the wood, leading to freeze-thaw cracking that accelerates deterioration. Massachusetts building code requires ice and water shield membrane on the first 24 inches from the eave edge (or to a point 36 inches inside the exterior wall, whichever is greater). For cedar roofs, installing ice and water shield in all valleys and at least 36 inches up from the eaves is strongly recommended. Proper attic insulation (R-49 minimum per MA code) and continuous soffit-to-ridge ventilation are equally critical for preventing the heat loss that triggers ice dams.
Debris Accumulation
Massachusetts is one of the most densely wooded states in the US, and most residential neighborhoods have heavy tree canopy. Pine needles, oak leaves, maple seeds, and other organic debris accumulate on cedar roofs and in valleys, trapping moisture against the wood surface. Unlike smooth metal or asphalt roofs where debris slides or blows off readily, cedar's textured surface catches and holds debris. In Massachusetts, clearing roof debris is not optional — it is essential maintenance that should be performed at least twice per year (after fall leaf drop and in spring). Allow debris to accumulate for more than a season and the trapped moisture will begin to break down the cedar underneath, creating dark, soft spots that eventually become leaks.
Annual Maintenance Budget
Plan for $500-$1,500 per yearin professional maintenance for a cedar roof in Massachusetts. This includes debris clearing (2x/year), periodic moss treatment, wood preservative application, and replacement of individual split or curled shakes. Over a 30-year lifespan, total maintenance costs of $15,000-$45,000 are typical. This ongoing expense is the primary trade-off for cedar's unmatched natural beauty and historical authenticity.
| Maintenance Task | Frequency | Cost per Visit |
|---|---|---|
| Debris clearing and gutter cleaning | 2x/year | $150–$350 |
| Moss and algae treatment | Every 2-3 years | $400–$1,000 |
| Wood preservative application | Every 5-7 years | $1,500–$3,500 |
| Individual shake replacement | As needed | $15–$40/shake |
Fire Treatment and Class A Rating Options
Fire safety is a critical consideration for cedar roofing. Untreated cedar carries a Class C fire rating — the lowest available — which can impact insurance coverage and may not meet all local code requirements. Massachusetts homeowners have several options to achieve the safer Class A fire rating for their cedar roof.
Pressure-Treated Cedar
+$1.00–$2.50/sqft
Factory-applied fire retardant treatment that penetrates the full depth of the wood. Products like Cedarline FR and Preserve FR achieve Class A ratings when tested per ASTM E108. This is the most reliable fire treatment method and the option most Massachusetts insurance carriers prefer. Treatment lasts the full life of the shake — no reapplication needed.
Fire-Retardant Underlayment
+$0.50–$1.50/sqft
Specialty fire-resistant underlayment installed beneath untreated cedar can achieve a Class A assembly rating for the complete roof system. Products like DensDeck Fire Guard or fire-rated gypsum sheathing create a fire-resistant barrier that prevents flame spread through the roof deck even if the cedar surface ignites. This approach is common in Massachusetts historic districts where authentic untreated cedar appearance is desired.
Topical Fire Retardant
+$0.75–$1.25/sqft
Surface-applied fire retardant sprayed or brushed onto installed cedar shakes. Less effective than pressure treatment because it only penetrates the outer surface layers. Requires reapplication every 5-10 years as UV exposure and weathering degrade the coating. Some Massachusetts insurance carriers do not accept topical treatment as equivalent to pressure treatment for Class A rating purposes — verify with your carrier before choosing this option.
Insurance Impact
Most Massachusetts homeowners insurance carriers accept fire-retardant treated cedar roofs but may charge a surcharge of $200-$800 per year compared to non-combustible materials. Some carriers require Class A-rated cedar as a condition of coverage. A few carriers in Massachusetts — particularly those writing policies in the western part of the state where wildfire risk is increasing — have stopped offering coverage for any wood roofing. Always confirm insurance terms before finalizing your cedar roof project. Over a 30-year roof life, insurance surcharges can add $6,000-$24,000 to the total cost of cedar ownership.
Synthetic Cedar Alternatives: DaVinci, CeDUR, and Brava
For Massachusetts homeowners who love the look of cedar but want to avoid the maintenance demands and fire concerns, synthetic cedar shake products have become an increasingly viable alternative. These engineered composites replicate cedar's appearance while offering dramatically lower maintenance requirements and superior fire ratings.
| Feature | Real Cedar Shakes | DaVinci Roofscapes | CeDUR Shakes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cost per sqft (MA) | $10–$18 | $14–$20 | $12–$18 |
| Fire rating | Class C (Class A treated) | Class A | Class A |
| Lifespan | 25-35 years (maintained) | 50 years (warranted) | 50 years (warranted) |
| Maintenance | High ($500-$1,500/yr) | Very Low | Very Low |
| Moss/algae resistance | Susceptible | Resistant | Resistant |
| Natural aging patina | Yes — authentic | No — color is fixed | No — color is fixed |
| Historic district approval | Typically approved | Case by case | Case by case |
| Insurance impact | Possible surcharge | No surcharge | No surcharge |
The 50-year total cost comparison tells the full story. A real cedar shake roof on a 1,800 sqft Massachusetts Colonial costs approximately $18,000-$32,400 to install, plus $15,000-$45,000 in lifetime maintenance, plus $6,000-$24,000 in insurance surcharges, plus one full replacement at year 30 ($25,000-$45,000 inflation-adjusted). The 50-year total: $64,000-$146,800. A synthetic cedar roof costs $21,600-$36,000 to install with essentially zero maintenance, no insurance surcharges, and no mid-life replacement. The 50-year total: $21,600-$36,000.
The Historic District Caveat
Despite their financial advantages, synthetic cedar products face an uphill battle in many Massachusetts historic districts. Nantucket's HDC has generally not approved synthetic shakes, and many mainland historic commissions still require "natural wood" for roofing on contributing structures. However, this is evolving: some Massachusetts towns have begun approving high-quality synthetics like CeDUR on a case-by-case basis, especially when the homeowner can demonstrate that the product is visually indistinguishable from real cedar at street level. If you are in a historic district, submit a sample of your chosen synthetic product to the HDC before committing to a purchase.
Cedar Roof Lifespan in New England: What to Realistically Expect
Cedar roofing manufacturers often cite lifespans of 30-50 years. In Massachusetts, real-world performance varies dramatically based on maintenance, installation quality, and environmental exposure. Here is what Massachusetts homeowners should realistically plan for.
With Regular Maintenance: 25-35 Years
- •Annual debris clearing and inspection
- •Moss/algae treatment every 2-3 years
- •Wood preservative every 5-7 years
- •Prompt replacement of damaged shakes
- •Proper ventilation beneath cedar
- •Estimated maintenance cost: $500-$1,500/year
Without Maintenance: 15-20 Years
- •Moss colonization accelerates rot within 3-5 years
- •Debris accumulation traps moisture against wood
- •UV degradation causes excessive splitting and curling
- •Ice dam damage compounds year over year
- •Insect damage (carpenter ants, wood borers) goes undetected
- •Leaks begin appearing at year 12-15
The lifespan gap between maintained and unmaintained cedar roofs in Massachusetts is the most dramatic of any roofing material. A $25,000 cedar roof that receives $1,000/year in maintenance ($30,000 over 30 years) delivers $55,000 of total cost over 30 years, or roughly $1,833 per year. The same $25,000 roof with zero maintenance lasts 17 years on average, costing $1,471 per year — seemingly cheaper until you factor in the $25,000+ replacement cost at year 17 and potential water damage repair costs of $5,000-$15,000 from the years of neglected leaks. The maintained cedar roof is always the better financial decision.
| Material | Cost/Sqft (MA) | Lifespan (MA) | Annual Maintenance | 50-Yr Cost* |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cedar Shakes (maintained) | $10–$18 | 25-35 years | $500–$1,500 | $64K–$147K |
| Architectural Shingles | $4.50–$8.50 | 20-25 years | $100–$300 | $30K–$58K |
| Standing Seam Metal | $14–$22 | 40-70 years | $50–$150 | $25K–$48K |
| Synthetic Cedar (DaVinci/CeDUR) | $12–$20 | 50 years | $0–$50 | $22K–$36K |
| Natural Slate | $15–$30 | 75-150 years | $50–$200 | $18K–$40K |
*50-year cost includes initial installation, all replacements within 50 years (inflation-adjusted at 3%/yr), maintenance, and insurance surcharges where applicable. Based on a 1,800 sqft Massachusetts Colonial roof.
HOA and Historic District Requirements for Cedar Roofing
Massachusetts has a uniquely high concentration of HOA communities and historic districts that regulate roofing materials. For many homeowners, cedar is not just a preference — it is a requirement. Understanding these regulations before you start planning saves time, money, and frustration.
Massachusetts Historic District Commissions (HDCs)
Local HDCs have legal authority to approve or deny exterior changes to buildings within designated historic districts. For roofing, HDCs typically regulate material type, color, texture, and sometimes even the manufacturer. In districts where the original roofing was cedar (which includes most pre-1900 Massachusetts buildings), the HDC will usually require cedar for any replacement. The review process typically takes 2-6 weeks and requires a formal application with material samples and specifications. Starting a roof replacement without HDC approval in a designated district can result in a stop-work order, fines, and a requirement to remove the non-compliant material at your own expense. Application fees range from $0-$100 depending on the municipality.
HOA Architectural Review Boards
Many Massachusetts planned communities and condominium associations have architectural covenants that specify approved roofing materials. In upscale communities on the North Shore, South Shore, and Cape Cod, cedar shakes or shingles are often the only approved wood roofing option. Some HOAs specify the exact cedar grade (No. 1 Blue Label, Certigrade, Certi-Split), exposure width, and stain color. Unlike HDC regulations, HOA rules are contractual — you agreed to them when you purchased your home — and violations can result in fines and mandatory remediation. Review your HOA's architectural guidelines before selecting a roofing material. Most HOAs require pre-approval of roofing projects, and the review process can take 2-4 weeks.
When Cedar Is Required but You Want an Alternative
If your HDC or HOA requires cedar and you would prefer a lower-maintenance alternative, there are strategies worth pursuing. First, request a meeting with the review board to present high-quality synthetic cedar samples (CeDUR and DaVinci multi-width products are the most convincing). Some boards have approved synthetics when presented with side-by-side samples, especially when the homeowner cites fire safety benefits. Second, if your home is individually listed on the National Register (versus being in a district), federal regulations are less prescriptive and may not mandate cedar specifically. Third, some historic districts distinguish between "contributing" and "non-contributing" structures — non-contributing buildings may have more material flexibility. Consult with your local historic preservation officer for guidance specific to your property.
Insurance Considerations for Cedar Roofs in Massachusetts
Wood roofing and insurance have a complicated relationship in Massachusetts. While cedar is a time-honored material that Massachusetts insurers have covered for centuries, the industry has tightened its stance on combustible roofing in recent years. Understanding the insurance landscape before you invest in cedar is essential for avoiding surprises.
Carriers That Cover Cedar
Most major Massachusetts insurers (Amica, MAPFRE, Plymouth Rock, Safety, Norfolk & Dedham) will write policies for homes with cedar roofs, typically with a surcharge of $200-$800 per year on the dwelling coverage portion. The surcharge amount depends on the cedar's fire rating (Class A treated vs untreated), the age and condition of the roof, the home's proximity to fire hydrants and fire stations, and the overall replacement cost of the dwelling. Homes with Class A fire-retardant treated cedar generally receive the lowest surcharges.
Carriers With Restrictions
A growing number of carriers in Massachusetts have imposed restrictions on wood roofing. Some require that cedar be less than 20 years old for new policy issuance. Others mandate Class A fire-retardant treatment as a condition of coverage. A few carriers have exited the wood-roof market in Massachusetts entirely, particularly for homes valued above $750,000 where replacement cost exposure is high. If you are considering cedar roofing, call your insurance agent before making any commitments to confirm your carrier's current position on wood roofs and get a written quote for the premium impact.
Historic District Exception
Massachusetts homeowners who are required by a Historic District Commission to use cedar roofing may have additional leverage with insurance carriers. Document the HDC requirement in writing and provide it to your insurer. Some carriers will reduce or waive the wood-roof surcharge when the homeowner can demonstrate that cedar is mandated by local regulation, not a voluntary choice. The Massachusetts Division of Insurance has also issued guidance that carriers should not refuse coverage solely based on a roofing material required by historic preservation law.
Cedar Shake Roof Cost Massachusetts: Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a cedar shake roof cost in Massachusetts in 2026?
A cedar shake roof in Massachusetts costs between $10.00 and $18.00 per square foot installed in 2026. For a typical 1,800 square foot Colonial roof, expect to pay $18,000 to $32,400 total. Cedar shingles (machine-cut, thinner) are less expensive at $8.00 to $14.00 per square foot installed. Premium hand-split shakes with fire retardant treatment run $14.00 to $18.00 per square foot. Massachusetts labor rates for cedar installation are 15-20% above the national average due to the specialized carpentry skills required and high demand in coastal and historic communities.
What is the difference between cedar shakes and cedar shingles?
Cedar shakes are hand-split (or taper-split) and have a thick, rough, textured surface that creates a rustic, dimensional look. They are typically 1/2 to 3/4 inch thick and create deep shadow lines on the roof. Cedar shingles are machine-sawn on both sides, producing a smooth, uniform, tapered product that is thinner (3/8 to 1/2 inch) and creates a flatter, more refined appearance. Shakes cost more ($10-$18/sqft) than shingles ($8-$14/sqft) due to higher material cost and longer installation time. In Massachusetts, hand-split shakes are the traditional choice for Cape Cod and island homes, while machine-cut shingles are more common on Colonial and Victorian-era properties.
How long does a cedar shake roof last in Massachusetts?
A properly maintained cedar shake roof in Massachusetts lasts 25 to 35 years. Without regular maintenance, the lifespan drops to 15 to 20 years due to moss and algae growth, moisture damage from humid New England summers, and ice dam-related deterioration during harsh winters. The key maintenance tasks that extend cedar roof life in MA are annual debris clearing, moss and algae treatment every 2-3 years, application of wood preservative every 5-7 years, and prompt replacement of split or curled shakes. Cedar shingles tend to have a slightly shorter lifespan of 20 to 30 years in Massachusetts conditions because their thinner profile is more susceptible to moisture cycling.
Is cedar roofing a good choice for homes near Cape Cod and the Islands?
Cedar is an excellent and historically authentic choice for Cape Cod, Martha's Vineyard, and Nantucket homes. The salt-resistant properties of Western Red Cedar make it naturally suited to coastal environments. On Nantucket, cedar shingle roofing is essentially required by the Historic District Commission, and the island's signature weathered gray cedar aesthetic is considered a defining architectural feature. Cape Cod homes — the architectural style named after the region — were originally roofed with cedar, and many historic district commissions in the area strongly prefer or mandate cedar for roof replacements. The natural gray patina that develops as cedar weathers is prized in these coastal communities.
Are cedar shake roofs a fire hazard in Massachusetts?
Untreated cedar shakes carry a Class C fire rating, which is the lowest rating and can be a concern for insurance companies. However, pressure-treated fire-retardant cedar shakes achieve a Class A fire rating (the highest), which meets or exceeds all Massachusetts building code requirements. CCA-treated or borate-treated cedar products resist ignition and slow flame spread to the same degree as asphalt shingles or metal roofing. Most Massachusetts insurance carriers require Class A fire-rated cedar products and may charge a premium of $200-$500 per year for wood roofing even with treatment. Some towns in wildfire-prone areas of western Massachusetts may have local ordinances restricting untreated wood roofing.
How do synthetic cedar shakes compare to real cedar in Massachusetts?
Synthetic cedar products like DaVinci Roofscapes and CeDUR shakes cost $12.00 to $20.00 per square foot installed in Massachusetts — comparable to or slightly higher than premium real cedar shakes. The key advantages of synthetic cedar are: Class A fire rating without chemical treatment, zero maintenance requirements, 50-year manufacturer warranties, and no susceptibility to moss, algae, or insect damage. The trade-off is authenticity — synthetic products closely mimic cedar's appearance but do not develop the natural gray patina that coastal Massachusetts homeowners prize. For historic district applications on Nantucket, Martha's Vineyard, and in many Boston-area neighborhoods, historic commissions may reject synthetic products in favor of real cedar.
What maintenance does a cedar shake roof need in Massachusetts?
Massachusetts cedar roofs require more maintenance than most other roofing materials due to the state's humid summers and wet climate. Annual maintenance includes clearing leaves, pine needles, and debris that trap moisture. Every 2-3 years, treat for moss and algae growth using zinc or copper-based solutions (avoid pressure washing, which damages cedar fibers). Every 5-7 years, apply a quality wood preservative or UV-protective oil stain to prevent excessive drying and cracking. Inspect for and promptly replace any split, curled, or missing shakes — especially after winter storms. Budget approximately $500-$1,500 per year for professional cedar roof maintenance in Massachusetts. This ongoing cost is the primary financial drawback of cedar compared to lower-maintenance materials like metal or architectural shingles.
Will my Massachusetts homeowners insurance cover a cedar shake roof?
Most Massachusetts insurance carriers will cover cedar shake roofs, but many charge a premium surcharge of $200-$800 per year compared to Class A-rated materials like asphalt shingles or metal. Some carriers require that cedar shakes be fire-retardant treated (Class A rated) as a condition of coverage. A few carriers in Massachusetts have stopped writing new policies for homes with untreated wood roofs entirely. Before installing a cedar roof, contact your insurance agent to confirm coverage terms, any surcharges, and whether fire-retardant treatment is required. Homeowners in historic districts who are required to use cedar by local regulations should document this requirement, as some carriers will waive surcharges for historically mandated materials.
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