Rubber shake roofing is often marketed as a modern alternative to traditional cedar shakes. It promises durability, weather resistance, and a lower-maintenance option compared to natural wood. At first glance, it may seem like the perfect compromise between aesthetics and performance.
However, while rubber shingles offer certain advantages, they are not always the best long-term roofing solution. Before choosing rubber roofing, it’s important to understand how it performs over time, how it compares to other synthetic materials, and what limitations homeowners should consider.
What Are Rubber Shake Shingles?
Rubber shake shingles and rubber roofing materials are typically made from recycled rubber materials, sometimes blended with plastics or polymers. These shingles are molded to resemble natural cedar shakes or slate and are designed to provide improved impact resistance compared to traditional wood.
Rubber roofing products are often promoted for their flexibility and resistance to cracking, especially in climates with temperature swings. Because they are synthetic, they do not rot like natural wood. However, performance can vary depending on the manufacturer and formulation.
The Benefits of a Rubber Shake Roof
It is important to acknowledge why some homeowners are drawn to rubber shake roofing in the first place.
1. Hurricane-Grade Performance
When properly installed, rubber roofing materials can offer strong wind resistance, with some products rated to withstand wind speeds up to 110 mph. Many rubber shingles are also designed to resist impact from hail up to two inches in diameter, making them a consideration in storm-prone regions.
2. No Rotting, Bending, or Discoloration
Unlike natural cedar, rubber shingles do not rot, split, or attract wood-boring insects. Because they are synthetic, they are not vulnerable to the same biological deterioration that can affect organic roofing materials over time.
3. Moisture, Mildew, and Pest-Resistant
Moisture protection is a key concern for any roofing system. Rubber shingles are generally non-porous and resistant to water absorption, which helps reduce the risk of mold, mildew, and moisture-related damage when installed correctly.
The Limitations of Rubber Shake Roofing
While rubber shingles have benefits, there are several factors that may make them less ideal for certain homeowners.
1. Appearance Over Time
Rubber shingles are designed to mimic natural materials, but their uniform manufacturing process can sometimes result in a less authentic look compared to real cedar or high-quality synthetic alternatives. Over time, color fading or surface wear may impact curb appeal.
2. Heat Sensitivity
Rubber roofing materials can be more susceptible to heat absorption and expansion in extremely hot climates. Prolonged UV exposure may affect long-term appearance and surface texture depending on product quality.
3. Weight and Structural Considerations
Although lighter than concrete or clay tile, rubber shingles can still be heavier than some modern synthetic roofing materials. Weight considerations are important when evaluating structural support and long-term performance.
4. Long-Term Value Questions
While rubber roofs are marketed as durable, homeowners should evaluate warranty coverage, fire ratings, and impact ratings carefully. Not all rubber roofing products offer the same level of performance certification.
5. Odor and off-gassing concerns
Certain recycled-rubber products can have a noticeable odor when new or when heated, although this varies significantly by manufacturer and formulation.
6. Recycling claims can be complicated
Being manufactured from recycled material doesn’t necessarily mean the finished roofing product is easily recyclable at the end of its service life.
How Rubber Roofing Compares to Other Synthetic Options
Homeowners looking for a cedar shake aesthetic often compare three primary options: natural cedar, rubber-based shingles, and advanced synthetic shake systems. While rubber roofing attempts to replicate the look of wood, it is helpful to first understand why real cedar has remained a benchmark for centuries.
Natural Cedar Shake Roofing
Authentic cedar shake roofing offers:
- A rich, dimensional appearance that naturally weathers over time
- Natural insulation properties
- Proven performance history spanning decades
- A distinctive texture that synthetic materials attempt to replicate
However, cedar does require ongoing maintenance and is vulnerable to moisture, fire concerns in some regions, and long-term weathering. For homeowners who love the look of cedar but want reduced maintenance, synthetic alternatives are often explored.
Rubber vs. High-Performance Synthetic Shake
Rubber shingles are molded to resemble cedar, but performance and longevity can vary by formulation. While flexible and moderately impact-resistant, rubber products may lack the refined detail and long-term structural stability of premium synthetic systems.
Advanced polyurethane-based synthetic shake systems, such as CEDUR®, are engineered to deliver:
- A Class 4 Impact Rating
- A Class A Fire Rating
- Lightweight installation
- Resistance to splitting, cracking, and moisture absorption
Unlike some rubber-based products, high-performance synthetic shake roofing is non-porous, highly durable, and designed to maintain its appearance long term. When comparing roofing materials, it’s important to evaluate not just the initial cost, but also lifespan, maintenance needs, and certification ratings.
Ready for a Better Alternative to Rubber Shake?
Choosing a roofing material is a long-term decision that impacts your home’s durability, appearance, and resale value. While rubber shake roofing may offer certain benefits, homeowners looking for verified performance ratings, premium aesthetics, and minimal maintenance should strongly consider advanced synthetic shake systems.
CEDUR® synthetic cedar shake roofing is engineered to deliver the authentic beauty of natural cedar without the maintenance challenges of wood or the performance limitations of some rubber-based products. With a Class 4 Impact Rating, a Class A Fire Rating, lightweight construction, and resistance to cracking, splitting, and moisture absorption, CEDUR is designed for long-term protection and lasting curb appeal.
If you are comparing rubber shake roofing to higher-performance synthetic options, now is the time to evaluate the difference in durability, certification ratings, and long-term value.
Contact CEDUR® today to request samples, speak with a roofing specialist, or learn how synthetic cedar shake can elevate your next roofing project.
Rubber Shake Roof FAQs
How long do rubber shingles last?
Rubber shingles typically last between 30 and 50 years, depending on product quality, climate, and installation. While they are marketed as durable and impact-resistant, long-term performance can vary by manufacturer. Proper installation and regular inspections are essential to achieving their full lifespan.
How much are rubber shingles?
Rubber shingles generally cost more than asphalt shingles and are often priced similarly to metal or natural cedar shakes. On average, homeowners can expect rubber roofing materials to cost significantly more upfront than standard asphalt systems. Installation costs may also be higher depending on roof complexity and regional labor rates.
Can you put shingles over a rubber roof?
In most cases, traditional shingles cannot be installed directly over an existing rubber roof membrane without proper preparation. Rubber roofing systems typically require full removal before a new shingle system is installed. Always consult a qualified roofing contractor to determine whether your existing rubber roof must be removed before re-roofing.
What do rubber shingles look like?
Rubber shingles are designed to mimic traditional roofing materials, especially cedar shakes and slate. From a distance, they can resemble real wood or stone roofing. However, up close, some rubber shingles may have a more uniform texture and manufactured appearance compared to natural materials.