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Though cedar shakes often get confused with shingles, there are a few key differences between wood shakes and wood shingles. For one, cedar shingle prices are lower, although shingles are less durable than wood shakes. Cedar shakes are thicker than shingles (shingles range from about 3/8 to 1/2 inches thick, compared to 1/2 to 3/4 inches thick for shakes). Wood shakes are handmade, while shingles are usually machine-made. Also, wood shakes work better on steeper roofs than shingles do. While the cost of cedar shingles is more budget-friendly, there are many great reasons to choose shakes.

Metal roofs last for between 50 and 70 years, and asphalt roofs last for between 20 and 25 years, with some lasting as long as 30 years. In most cases, you’ll get double the life or more out of a metal roof than you would from a shingle roof, which helps make the higher cost of a metal roof more manageable.

You can only overlay a roof once. Any additional layers of shingles will add too much weight and may also violate building codes. Once your roof has had an overlay, you’ll need to have a full roof replacement, including a tear-off of all existing roofing materials, when it’s time for a new roof. 

Skipping the installation of a drip edge or gutter apron can lead to significant water damage. Without this component, water is more likely to seep under roofing materials or leak behind gutters, damaging the fascia, soffits, siding, and even the interior of your home, such as the attic. Over time, this moisture can cause rot, mold, and deterioration. In colder climates, a missing drip edge also increases the risk of ice dams, which can lead to expensive repairs. A drip edge is an essential part of a roof's drainage system, and some local building codes may even require its installation to protect the home from water damage.