Cedar Shake

Term from Roofing industry explained for recruiters

Cedar Shake refers to a premium, natural wood roofing material made from split cedar logs. It's different from regular shingles because each piece is hand-split, giving roofs a distinctive, rustic appearance that's highly valued in upscale homes. When someone mentions this in their resume, they're talking about experience with high-end roofing materials that require special installation skills. Similar terms include cedar shingles or wood shakes, though shakes are typically thicker and more irregular in shape than shingles.

Examples in Resumes

Installed Cedar Shake and Cedar Shingle roofing on luxury homes

Managed teams specializing in Cedar Shake installation for historic restoration projects

Trained junior roofers in proper Cedar Shake and Wood Shake installation techniques

Typical job title: "Cedar Shake Installers"

Also try searching for:

Roofer Roofing Specialist Cedar Roofing Installer Shake Roof Installer Premium Roofing Specialist Wood Roofing Expert

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How do you handle complex cedar shake installation on irregular roof shapes?

Expected Answer: Senior installers should discuss planning for valleys, dormers, and complicated angles, explaining moisture barriers, proper ventilation, and maintaining consistent exposure rates across different roof sections.

Q: What's your approach to training new team members on cedar shake installation?

Expected Answer: Should demonstrate leadership skills by explaining their training process, safety protocols, quality standards, and how they ensure consistent work across their team.

Mid Level Questions

Q: What are the key differences between cedar shakes and cedar shingles?

Expected Answer: Should explain that shakes are split and thicker while shingles are sawn and thinner, discussing different installation requirements and when to use each.

Q: How do you ensure proper ventilation when installing cedar shakes?

Expected Answer: Should describe proper spacing between shakes, underlayment requirements, and importance of air flow to prevent moisture damage and extend roof life.

Junior Level Questions

Q: What safety measures do you take when working with cedar shakes?

Expected Answer: Should mention basic roof safety equipment, proper ladder usage, and awareness of weather conditions that affect safe installation.

Q: What basic tools are needed for cedar shake installation?

Expected Answer: Should list essential tools like roofing hammer, chalk line, measuring tape, and proper safety equipment, showing familiarity with basic installation needs.

Experience Level Indicators

Junior (0-2 years)

  • Basic shake installation on simple roof designs
  • Understanding of safety procedures
  • Knowledge of basic tools and materials
  • Ability to follow installation guidelines

Mid (2-5 years)

  • Independent installation on various roof types
  • Understanding of ventilation requirements
  • Ability to estimate materials needed
  • Knowledge of different shake grades and applications

Senior (5+ years)

  • Complex installation planning and execution
  • Team leadership and training abilities
  • Advanced problem-solving for unusual roof designs
  • Quality control and inspection expertise

Red Flags to Watch For

  • No knowledge of proper ventilation requirements
  • Limited understanding of moisture barriers
  • Lack of safety certification or awareness
  • No experience with proper spacing and exposure rates