Plastic cedar shake siding offers the classic look of natural cedar with lower maintenance and durability. This guide highlights five practical options for homeowners seeking a cedar-shake appearance with modern materials. Best for quick installations, moisture resilience, and a traditional aesthetic. The table below helps compare key choices at a glance.
| Product | Brand |
|---|---|
| Tando Beach House Shake Composite Siding Panels – Pacifica Color | Tando |
| Polaris Homeside Select Double 7in. Cedar Shake Vinyl Siding – Granite Gray | Polaris |
| Polaris Homeside Select Double 7in. Cedar Shake Vinyl Siding – Slate | Polaris |
| Cedar Impressions Double 9in. Staggered Rough Split Shakes | CertainTeed |
| Western Red Cedar 18″ Resquared & Rebutted Grooved Sidewall Shingles | Pacific Coast |
Tando Beach House Shake Composite Siding Panels
Product: Tando Beach House Shake Composite Siding Panels – Pacifica Color – Cedar Shake Alternative Exterior Siding – Moisture Resistant, Low Maintenance – 1/2 Square Coverage.
Best for: Homeowners seeking a true cedar-looks option that requires less painting and maintenance. This panel system delivers an authentic cedar appearance without ongoing staining or sealing.
Why selected: The authentic cedar-shake look paired with moisture resistance and low maintenance makes it a strong alternative to real cedar or painted wood siding.
Caution: Composite panels can be heavier to handle during installation; ensure proper substrate preparation and fastening tools.
Polaris Homeside Select Double Cedar Shake Vinyl Siding – Granite Gray
Product: Polaris Homeside Select Double 7in. Cedar Shake Vinyl Siding (1/2 Square) Granite Gray.
Best for: Homeowners prioritizing easy installation, low maintenance, and the look of real cedar without staining. Vinyl cladding generally offers good resistance to moisture and weathering.
Why selected: The Tru-Lock system and textured cedar-shake appearance provide a durable, low-maintenance finish with straightforward installation.
Caution: Product color may vary slightly from images due to lighting and manufacturing runs.
Polaris Homeside Select Double Cedar Shake Vinyl Siding – Slate
Product: Polaris Homeside Select Double 7in. Cedar Shake Vinyl Siding (1/2 Square) Slate.
Best for: Buyers wanting a cool-toned slate finish with realistic cedar texture in a low-maintenance vinyl format.
Why selected: Textured from dozens of real cedar shakes, low upkeep, and easy installation into existing framing make this a practical choice.
Caution: Slight color variation is possible between batches or screens; verify the color in person if exact matching is critical.
Cedar Impressions Double 9in. Staggered Rough Split Shakes
Product: Cedar Impressions Double 9in. Staggered Rough Split Shakes (1/2 Square) Mountain Cedar.
Best for: Architects and homeowners seeking a high-define cedar shake look with panel-based installation that supports fast, accurate nailing through nail marks.
Why selected: PanelThermometer and True Texture finish deliver strong visual shadow lines and authentic shingle definition in a durable, wind-resistant design.
Caution: Requires precise panel alignment; misalignment can affect the shadowing and overall finish.
Western Red Cedar 18″ Resquared & Rebutted Shingles
Product: Western Red Cedar 18″ Resquared & Rebutted Grooved Sidewall Shingles 1/2 Square cartons.
Best for: Builders and DIY homeowners seeking a natural wood look with a precise fit and professional alignment for sidewalls or accent areas.
Why selected: Premium Western Red Cedar offers natural durability and beauty, while the grooved face texture improves visual appeal and shadowing.
Caution: Real wood options require regular maintenance to preserve color and prevent moisture-related issues over time.
Buying Guide: Key Considerations for Cedar Shake Siding Alternatives
What material best fits your climate and maintenance tolerance? Composite, vinyl, and real-wood-look products vary in durability, moisture resistance, and upkeep requirements. Consider the balance between appearance, longevity, and installation complexity.
How will color and texture align with your home’s design? Look for authentic cedar textures or realistic wood-grain patterns that echo your exterior styling goals.
Is installation speed important? Vinyl and composite panels often install faster than real wood shakes, reducing labor costs and project timelines.
What about warranty and repairs? Verify material warranties and availability of matching replacement panels in case of damage or aging.
How to choose for harsh weather? For high-wind, moisture-prone areas, select products with solid seam systems and proven wind-resistance ratings where available.
FAQ
- Q: Are plastic cedar shake options as durable as real cedar? A: Many are designed to resist rot, moisture, and fading, offering lower maintenance than natural wood while delivering a cedar-like appearance.
- Q: Can I install these siding products myself? A: Some vinyl or composite panels are designed for DIY installation, but others may require professional installation for best results.
- Q: Do these products require painting? A: Most vinyl or composite options do not require painting, though some real-wood-look products may accept stain or paint seasonal adjustments.
- Q: How long do these products typically last? A: Durability varies by material; vinyl and composite options generally offer longer low-maintenance lifespans than untreated wood.
- Q: Will color fade over time? A: Some colors may fade subtly with exposure to sunlight; verify colorfastness and UV resistance specs from the manufacturer.
- Q: Which option is best for budget-conscious projects? A: Vinyl shake options often provide economical installation with a cedar-like appearance, while composite panels offer lower maintenance over time.