Lifestyle

The Pros and Cons of Cedar Roofing: A Balanced View

Published

2 years ago

September 25, 2023

Approach in choosing the right roofing material is one of the key issues for homeowners. The cedar available to select from is durable and attractive for a number of reasons, but it also has disadvantages. Below, we will consider the aspects of cedar roofing, including the features of installation.

Advantages of Cedar Roofing

Selecting an appropriate roofing material transcends mere visual appeal; it constitutes a long-term investment in the structural integrity, comfort, and environmental sustainability of your residence. Cedar roofing, characterized by its unique amalgamation of utilitarian and aesthetic advantages, consistently garners favour among both homeowners and architectural experts.

Design Versatility: A Dream for Architects

Cedar roofing is not just robust; it’s also highly adaptable in design. Whether you’re looking to restore a historical home or build a cutting-edge modern property, cedar can be tailored to your architectural preferences. This flexibility makes it a top pick among designers.

Energy Efficiency: Insulation Benefits

One often-overlooked advantage of cedar is its insulation capabilities. Proper insulation can lead to significant energy cost savings, and cedar is strong in this department as well. Its thermal resistance helps to maintain an energy-efficient household, which is especially beneficial in climates with extreme weather conditions.

Light yet Durable: Easy Installation

Cedar shakes and shingles are both durable and lightweight, simplifying the installation process and reducing the load on your home’s framework. Lighter materials often translate to faster installation, which could save you on labour expenses.

Environmentally Friendly: A Sustainable Option

Cedar is more than just a pretty face; it’s an eco-conscious choice too. The wood used for cedar roofing typically comes from responsibly managed forests, adding a green touch to its advantages.

Long-lasting: Not Just Another Roof

Cedar outshines many other materials when it comes to durability. A properly cared-for cedar roofing can last up to 30 years, surpassing many other alternatives. This longevity makes it a great option for those planning to live in their home for an extended period and wishing to avoid frequent roof replacements.

The Drawbacks of Cedar Roofing

While cedar offers a variety of benefits, it’s also essential to understand its limitations and potential disadvantages.

Colour Fade: An Aesthetic Consideration

Although cedar begins with a rich, inviting colour, it is susceptible to fading, especially if continuously exposed to direct sunlight. You may find the silvery-gray patina that eventually forms appealing, but preserving the original colour will require ongoing treatment.

Not Suitable for DIY: Professional Installation Required

The complexity of installing a cedar roof generally requires professional intervention. A cedar roofing project can be considerably more expensive than an asphalt one, potentially costing between $12,000 to $25,000, depending on various factors.

Local Regulations: Do Your Homework

In some locations, particularly those at risk of wildfires, local building codes may restrict the use of cedar roofing. It’s vital to be aware of local laws and regulations before making a choice.

Insurance Costs: A Hidden Expense

Cedar’s flammability can result in higher insurance premiums. Be sure to account for this extra cost when calculating your budget.

Wildlife Concerns: Uninvited Guests

While cedar is typically resistant to insects, larger animals like woodpeckers and squirrels may cause damage. If these animals are prevalent in your area, you might have to factor in repair costs.

Additional Considerations

Before you finalize your decision, there are a few other factors that might influence your overall satisfaction with a cedar roof. Should these particular animals be commonly found in your locality, the financial implications of potential repairs may need to be incorporated into your decision-making process.

Additional Factors for Evaluation

Prior to reaching a definitive conclusion, there exist several other variables that could impact your ultimate level of satisfaction with a cedar roofing installation.

Climate Adaptability

If you reside in an area subject to harsh weather, consider how well cedar can withstand those conditions. Although it resists rot and works well in damp climates, it might not be the best choice in fire-prone areas.

Warranty: Your Safety Net

Always look into the warranty terms for your roofing material. A solid warranty can offer both peace of mind and financial security should issues arise with your roof.

Resale Value: A Smart Investment

If you decide to sell your home, these roofs are often a selling point, thanks to their lasting quality and aesthetic appeal.

Conclusion

Opting for cedar roofing presents several distinct advantages, including but not limited to its durability, aesthetic versatility, and effective insulation properties. Nonetheless, potential drawbacks such as colour deterioration over time, initial installation expenses, and the likelihood of increased insurance premiums should not be overlooked. To ensure a decision that is both informed and aligned with your specific needs and lifestyle, it is advisable to consult with qualified professionals and to review local building codes and climatic conditions.

Lifestyle

Why Derik Fay Is Becoming a Case Study in Long-Haul Entrepreneurship

Published

17 hours ago

July 2, 2025

Michelle Langton

Entrepreneurship today is often framed in extremes — overnight exits or public flameouts. But a small cohort of operators is being studied for something far less viral: consistency. Among them, Derik Fay has quietly surfaced as a long-term figure whose name appears frequently across sectors, interviews, and editorial mentions — yet whose personal visibility remains relatively limited.

Fay’s career spans more than 20 years and includes work in private investment, business operations, and emerging entertainment ventures. Though many of his companies are not household names, the volume and duration of his activity have made him a subject of interest among business media outlets and founders who study entrepreneurial longevity over fame.

He was born in Westerly, Rhode Island, in 1978, and while much of his early career remains undocumented publicly, recent profiles including recurring features in Forbes — have chronicled his current portfolio and leadership methods. These accounts often emphasize his pattern of working behind the scenes, embedding within businesses rather than leading from a distance. His style is often described by peers as “operational first, media last.”

Fay has also become recognizable for his consistency in leadership approach: focus on internal systems, low public profile, and long-term strategy over short-term visibility. At 46 years old, his posture in business remains one of longevity rather than disruption a contrast to many of the more heavily publicized entrepreneurs of the post-2010 era.

While Fay has never publicly confirmed his net worth, independent analysis based on documented real estate holdings, corporate exits, and investment activity suggests a conservative floor of $100 million, with several credible indicators placing the figure at well over $250 million. The exact number may remain private but the scale is increasingly difficult to overlook.

He is also involved in creative sectors, including film and media, and maintains a presence on social platforms, though not at the scale or tone of many personal-brand-driven CEOs. He lives with his long-term partner, Shandra Phillips, and is the father of two daughters — both occasionally referenced in interviews, though rarely centered.

While not an outspoken figure, Fay’s work continues to gain media attention. The reason may lie in the contrast he presents: in a climate of rapid rises and equally rapid burnout, his profile reflects something less dramatic but increasingly valuable — steadiness.

There are no viral speeches. No Twitter threads drawing blueprints. Just a track record that’s building its own momentum over time.

Whether that style becomes the norm for the next wave of founders is unknown. But it does offer something more enduring than buzz: a model of entrepreneurship where attention isn’t the currency — results are.