7 Ways to Assess Salvaged Cedar Shake Condition That Reveal Hidden Value
Reclaiming cedar shakes can save you money and reduce environmental impact, but knowing how to evaluate their condition is crucial before investing time in your project. Not all salvaged cedar shakes are worth reusing, and identifying those with structural integrity versus those beyond repair requires careful assessment.
Learning to spot signs of rot, warping, splitting, and insect damage will help you make informed decisions about which shakes are suitable for repurposing and which should be discarded.
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Understanding Cedar Shake Basics: What Makes It Worth Salvaging
Identifying Different Types of Cedar Shakes
Cedar shakes come in three main varieties: hand-split, taper-split, and straight-split. Hand-split shakes have a rustic, textured appearance with one rough side. Taper-split shakes maintain uniform thickness while straight-split varieties offer clean edges and a more refined look. Each type ages differently, with western red cedar being the most common species used for roofing due to its natural decay resistance.
The Value of Reclaimed Cedar Materials
Reclaimed cedar shakes command premium prices due to their weathered patina and dense grain patterns that develop over decades of exposure. Older cedar typically contains higher concentrations of natural oils and preservatives than newly harvested wood. These aged shakes often exhibit superior weather resistance, dimensional stability, and a character that’s impossible to replicate with new materials—making properly salvaged pieces truly worth their weight in gold.
Assessing Physical Damage: What Can and Cannot Be Salvaged
Evaluating Cracks, Splits, and Breaks
Examine each cedar shake for structural integrity by identifying the type and severity of cracks. Minor splits (less than 1/4 inch wide) that don’t extend through the entire thickness can often be salvaged. Completely split shakes where pieces separate easily should be discarded. Look specifically at end grain cracks—these typically worsen over time and indicate the shake won’t perform well when reinstalled.
Checking for Warping and Cupping Issues
Warped cedar shakes create installation challenges and compromise water resistance. Minor cupping (less than 1/8 inch deviation) may be acceptable for decorative applications but problematic for roofing. Severely cupped shakes that don’t lie flat when pressed against a surface should be rejected. Test each piece by laying it on a flat surface—if light passes underneath the center or edges, the warping is too significant for reuse.
Examining Moisture Damage and Rot in Salvaged Cedar Shakes
Identifying Soft Spots and Fungal Growth
Moisture damage in cedar shakes typically manifests as soft spots that yield under finger pressure. Check for discoloration—dark brown or black areas often indicate fungal growth or decay. Examine the underside of shakes where moisture tends to linger longest, looking for fuzzy growths or mushroom-like formations. The distinct musty odor of mildew is another telltale sign that a shake has been compromised and should be rejected.
Testing Moisture Content with Simple Tools
A moisture meter provides the most accurate assessment, with readings above 20% indicating potentially problematic shakes. Don’t have a meter? Try the simple weight test—dry cedar feels notably lighter than moisture-laden pieces. You can also perform the tap test: dry shakes produce a clear, resonant sound when tapped, while damp ones sound dull and flat. For a visual check, press a nail into the wood—moisture-damaged cedar will offer little resistance.
Evaluating Weather Exposure: Signs of Aging vs. Deterioration
Distinguishing Natural Weathering from Structural Damage
Weather exposure creates predictable aging patterns in cedar shakes that differ from actual deterioration. Natural weathering typically appears as uniform silver-gray coloration and minor surface checking. Structural damage, however, manifests as deep cracks extending through the shake’s thickness, significant erosion of wood fibers, or uneven weathering patterns. Run your hand across the surface—aged cedar should feel rough but solid, while damaged shakes will have soft spots or flaking sections.
Assessing Color Changes and Their Significance
Cedar’s color transformation tells a crucial story about its condition. Light silvery-gray indicates healthy aging through normal UV exposure. Darker gray or black streaking often signals water retention problems. Reddish-brown discoloration typically indicates early stages of fungal activity, while greenish tints reveal algae or moss growth. Yellow or whitish patches almost always suggest advanced decay. When evaluating salvaged shakes, prefer consistent silver-gray patina over multi-colored or heavily stained pieces.
Inspecting for Insect Damage and Infestations
Identifying Termite and Beetle Evidence
Insect damage can render salvaged cedar shakes unusable, so thorough inspection is crucial. Look for small holes (1/16 to 1/8 inch in diameter) that indicate beetle activity, particularly in clusters across the shake surface. Termite damage appears as hollow tunnels within the wood and fine sawdust-like frass around the edges. Tap suspicious shakes against a hard surface—those with extensive insect damage will sound hollow and may feel unusually light when handled.
Determining if Treated Cedar Shakes Are Worth Salvaging
Cedar shakes with minor insect damage can sometimes be salvaged if properly treated with borate solutions or commercial insecticides. However, if more than 10% of the shake shows evidence of infestation, it’s generally not worth preserving. Examine treated shakes carefully for chemical residue or strong odors that might indicate harmful preservatives were used. Shakes that have been previously treated with CCA (chromated copper arsenate) should be rejected due to potential toxicity risks and disposal challenges.
Measuring Thickness and Remaining Lifespan
Using Simple Measurement Techniques
Cedar shake thickness directly impacts its potential for reuse. Use a caliper or ruler to measure the butt end (thickest part) of each shake. Quality reclaimed shakes should maintain at least 3/8 inch thickness for roof applications. For sidewall installations, you’ll need a minimum of 1/4 inch thickness. Examine multiple points along each shake to identify any uneven wear that might compromise performance.
Estimating Useful Life Based on Current Condition
The remaining lifespan of salvaged cedar shakes depends on wear patterns and thickness reduction. Shakes with less than 20% thickness loss typically offer 7-10 more years of service. Those with 20-40% loss might last 3-5 years. Check for consistent weathering across the surface—evenly worn shakes generally outlast those with irregular erosion. Remember that shakes from shadier roof sections often retain more material than sun-exposed areas.
Sorting and Grading Your Salvaged Cedar Shakes
Creating Quality Categories for Different Projects
Sort your salvaged cedar shakes into at least three quality categories based on condition and appearance. Reserve premium shakes (minimal weathering, no cracks) for highly visible areas like front-facing walls. Designate medium-grade shakes (minor splitting, consistent coloring) for less visible sections or accent walls. Allocate lower-grade pieces (more weathered, slight warping) for utility structures, garden sheds, or decorative borders where aesthetics are less critical.
Calculating Usable Percentage from Your Salvage Pile
Track your usable yield by counting sorted shakes in each quality category and dividing by your total salvaged pieces. Expect 50-70% usability from well-maintained roofs and 30-50% from older installations. Document your totals using a simple spreadsheet—recording premium, medium, and utility-grade percentages. This calculation helps determine if you have sufficient materials for your intended project or need to source additional reclaimed shakes to complete the job.
Testing Structural Integrity Before Reuse
Simple Bend and Pressure Tests
The bend test quickly reveals a cedar shake’s remaining flexibility and strength. Gently flex each shake between your hands—quality pieces will bend slightly without cracking or snapping. Apply moderate pressure with your thumbs across different areas, noting any sections that feel unusually soft or brittle. Healthy cedar should resist your pressure with consistent firmness throughout the entire piece.
Evaluating Nail Holes and Previous Fastener Damage
Previous nail holes can significantly impact a cedar shake’s reusability. Examine each hole for splitting or wood deterioration extending beyond the immediate puncture area. Count the total holes—shakes with more than 4-5 holes typically have compromised structural integrity. Look for rust stains around old nail positions, which indicate moisture penetration and potential hidden decay requiring further assessment before reuse.
Cleaning and Preparing Salvaged Cedar for Assessment
Safe Cleaning Methods That Won’t Damage Shakes
Before assessing salvaged cedar shakes, proper cleaning is essential to reveal their true condition. Use soft-bristled brushes with a mixture of mild soap and water to gently remove surface dirt and debris. Avoid harsh chemicals like bleach or ammonia that can damage the wood fibers and affect structural integrity. For stubborn organic growth, a solution of 1 part white vinegar to 4 parts water works effectively without compromising the cedar’s natural oils and resins.
When to Use Pressure Washing vs. Hand Cleaning
Pressure washing should only be used on heavily soiled cedar shakes with extreme caution. Set your pressure washer below 500 PSI and maintain at least 24 inches of distance from the shakes to prevent fiber damage. Hand cleaning is always preferable for older or weathered shakes, as it allows you to control the pressure and assess damage during cleaning. Reserve pressure washing for younger, more resilient shakes, and always work with the grain to prevent lifting fibers or creating new splits.
Making the Final Decision: Restore, Repurpose, or Replace
Cost-Benefit Analysis of Restoration
When deciding whether to restore your salvaged cedar shakes, run a thorough cost-benefit analysis. Compare restoration costs (cleaning, treatments, labor) against purchasing new shakes, which typically run $7-15 per square foot installed. Factor in the 30-50% savings potential of using salvaged materials, balanced against their likely reduced lifespan. Consider the historical or aesthetic value that weathered cedar provides—this intangible benefit often justifies the restoration investment for period homes or distinctive architectural styles.
Creative Repurposing Ideas for Damaged Shakes
Don’t discard cedar shakes that aren’t suitable for roofing—they’re perfect for creative repurposing. Transform them into rustic wall accents, garden edging, or decorative planter boxes that showcase their weathered character. Smaller pieces work exceptionally well for mosaic tabletops, picture frames, or artistic signage. Even heavily damaged shakes can be broken down for mulch or kindling—their natural oils make them excellent fire starters. The cedar’s natural resistance to moisture and insects makes these repurposed items remarkably durable in outdoor settings.
Conclusion: Maximizing the Value of Your Salvaged Cedar
Assessing salvaged cedar shakes requires attention to detail and knowledge of what makes these reclaimed materials valuable. By carefully evaluating thickness weathering patterns moisture content and structural integrity you’ll be able to select only the best pieces for your project.
Remember that not every shake will be suitable for reuse but proper sorting allows you to maximize your materials. Premium pieces can beautify visible areas while even lower-grade shakes can find purpose in less demanding applications.
The effort you invest in thorough assessment pays dividends through cost savings environmental benefits and the unique character that only weathered cedar can provide. With the right approach your salvaged cedar can deliver both practical function and timeless beauty for years to come.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main benefits of reclaiming cedar shakes?
Reclaiming cedar shakes saves money and reduces environmental impact. Salvaged cedar often has enhanced weather resistance and stability compared to new wood, thanks to its natural aging process. The weathered appearance also provides a unique aesthetic value that can’t be replicated with new materials.
How do I know if salvaged cedar shakes are suitable for reuse?
Check for structural integrity by examining for rot, warping, splitting, and insect infestations. Good candidates should have minimal cracks (less than 1/4 inch wide), no severe cupping, moisture content below 20%, and a uniform silver-gray color. Perform a simple bend test – quality shakes should flex slightly without breaking.
What thickness should reclaimed cedar shakes have to be reusable?
For roof applications, reclaimed cedar shakes should maintain at least 3/8 inch thickness at the butt end. For sidewall installations, a minimum of 1/4 inch thickness is acceptable. Measure with a caliper or ruler to ensure adequate thickness for your specific application.
How can I estimate the remaining lifespan of salvaged cedar shakes?
Evaluate thickness reduction and wear patterns. Shakes with less than 20% thickness loss typically offer 7-10 more years of service. Those with 20-40% loss might last 3-5 years. Consistent weathering across the surface indicates better longevity potential. Shakes from shadier areas usually retain more material than sun-exposed ones.
What signs indicate moisture damage in cedar shakes?
Look for soft spots, fungal growth, discoloration, fuzzy textures, and musty odors. Use a moisture meter (readings above 20% indicate issues) or try alternative methods like the weight test or tap test. You can also press a nail into the wood – if it enters easily with little resistance, moisture damage is likely present.
How should I sort salvaged cedar shakes?
Sort into three quality categories: premium (best condition, use for visible areas), medium-grade (minor defects, use in less prominent sections), and lower-grade (more significant issues, suitable for utility structures). Track quantities in each category to determine if you have enough materials for your project.
Can cedar shakes with insect damage be salvaged?
Minor insect damage can sometimes be treated and salvaged. However, shakes with over 10% infestation (indicated by small holes, hollow tunnels, or unusual lightness) should generally be discarded. Tap suspicious shakes to check for hollowness – a solid sound indicates the shake may still be usable.
Should I salvage treated cedar shakes?
Avoid salvaging cedar shakes treated with CCA (chromated copper arsenate) due to toxicity risks and disposal challenges. These preservatives can be harmful to handle and environmentally problematic. If you’re unsure about treatment status, err on the side of caution and avoid reuse.
What’s the best way to clean salvaged cedar shakes for assessment?
Use soft-bristled brushes with a mild soap and water mixture for gentle cleaning. Avoid harsh chemicals that could damage the wood. For heavily soiled shakes, pressure washing may be used cautiously, but hand cleaning is preferred for older shakes to prevent damage and allow better assessment.
What can I do with cedar shakes that aren’t suitable for roofing or siding?
Repurpose damaged shakes for rustic wall accents, garden edging, planter boxes, or mulch. Cedar’s natural resistance to moisture and insects makes it versatile for outdoor projects. Consider conducting a cost-benefit analysis to determine whether restoration, repurposing, or replacement makes the most sense for your specific situation.
