Shake Siding Count Calculator

About the Shake Siding Count Calculator

Cedar shakes and shingles provide a timeless, natural siding that weathers to a beautiful silver-gray patina. Shakes are thicker and rougher; shingles are thinner, smoother, and more precisely cut. Both are installed in overlapping courses similar to roof shingles but with wider exposure settings when used as siding.

This calculator determines how many bundles (or cartons) of shake or shingle siding you need based on the net wall area and the exposure setting. Standard cedar shingle bundles cover approximately 25 sq ft at 5" exposure (often sold 4 bundles per square = 100 sq ft). But the exposure varies for siding: wall shingles can be exposed up to 50% of their length, more than roof shingles.

Accurate bundle counting prevents mid-project shortages. Cedar shakes from different lots can vary in color and texture, so ordering all material at once ensures consistent appearance.

When This Page Helps

Shake and shingle coverage varies dramatically with exposure setting. A 1-inch change in exposure can mean 20% more or fewer bundles. This calculator ensures your order matches your chosen exposure.

How to Use the Inputs

1. Enter the net siding area (after subtracting openings).
2. Enter the shake/shingle length (16", 18", or 24").
3. Enter the chosen exposure for wall application.
4. Enter the coverage per bundle at that exposure (or use the default).
5. Enter a waste factor (15–20% for shakes).
6. Review the bundle count.

Example Calculation

Tips & Best Practices

• Wall exposure can be wider than roof exposure: up to 8.5" for 18" shakes and 11.5" for 24" shakes.
• Use double-coursed shingles for maximum exposure — a concealed under-course allows wider spacing of the visible course.
• Mix shingle widths (3—9") randomly for a natural look; some specify a minimum width.
• Pre-treat raw cedar with a wood preservative before installation for maximum longevity.
• Order 15–20% extra: shakes/shingles have more waste than flat siding due to width variation and corner fitting.
• Corner boards (trim boards at inside/outside corners) simplify installation by eliminating mitered shake corners.

Shake vs. Shingle: Choosing the Right Product

Cedar shakes create a bold, rustic appearance with deep shadow lines. They are thicker (3/4–1.25") and more textured, giving the facade a hand-crafted look. Cedar shingles are precision-sawn (about 3/8–1/2" thick), creating a smooth, uniform appearance suitable for traditional Colonial, Cape Cod, and Craftsman styles.

Weather Protection

Shake and shingle siding relies on multiple overlapping layers for weather resistance. Each course overlaps the one below, so water runs down the face and drips off the butt edge. A weather-resistant barrier (felt paper or house wrap) behind the shakes provides secondary protection. Triple-course coverage (3 layers thick at any point) is the standard for single-coursed walls.

Maintenance

Cedar naturally produces oils that resist rot and insects, but these oils deplete over time. Applying a semi-transparent stain with UV inhibitor every 3–5 years maintains the original color and extends the siding's life. Without treatment, the cedar weathers to a silver-gray that many homeowners consider attractive.

Frequently Asked Questions

• What is the difference between shakes and shingles?

  Shakes are hand-split (or machine-split/hand-dressed) and have a rough, textured face. Shingles are sawn smooth on both faces and are thinner and more uniform. Shakes create a rustic look; shingles provide a more refined, uniform appearance. Both are made from Western Red Cedar.

• What exposure should I use for wall shakes?

  For single-coursed walls: 18" shingles use up to 8.5" exposure (half minus 0.5"). For double-coursed walls: 18" shingles can use up to 14" exposure. The wider the exposure, the fewer bundles needed but the less overlap weather protection.

• How many bundles per square of shake siding?

  A "square" is 100 sq ft. At standard exposure, 4 bundles cover one square for standard 16" or 18" shingles. Bundle coverage varies by shingle length and exposure setting. Always check the manufacturer's packaging for the specific coverage rate.

• What is double-coursing?

  Double-coursing uses two layers: an inexpensive #3 grade under-course shingle and a #1 grade outer shingle. This allows a much wider exposure (showing more of each shingle) because the under-course provides additional overlap protection. It creates a thicker shadow line at the butt edges.

• Can I use cedar shakes over existing siding?

  It is possible but not recommended. Removing old siding allows inspection and repair of sheathing and weather barriers. If installing over existing flat siding, ensure the surface is sound, flat, and that furring strips provide a proper nailing base and drainage plane.

• How long does cedar shake siding last?

  Untreated cedar siding lasts 20–30 years. Pre-treated or regularly maintained cedar lasts 40–60+ years. In dry climates, cedar can last over 100 years. In wet, shaded areas without treatment, it may last only 15–20 years due to moss, mold, and accelerated decay.