Cedar Shake Roofs in Omaha: Natural Wood vs. Composite Cedar Shake

There’s something undeniably charming about a cedar shake roof. The natural wood grain, rustic texture, and weathered elegance make it a popular roofing choice for upscale homes across Omaha. But while cedar shake looks beautiful when it’s first installed, it often struggles to keep up with Nebraska’s intense weather—and that’s where composite cedar shake tiles come in.

At Nastase Contracting, we specialize in roofing solutions combining timeless style and modern durability. As a certified Brava installer, we help homeowners and custom home builders enjoy the look of cedar shake without the high maintenance or short lifespan of real wood.

The Natural Appeal and the Natural Problems of Cedar Shake

Cedar shake has been popular for centuries, especially for homeowners who love a cozy, craftsman-style, or mountain lodge aesthetic. Its hand-split texture and warm tones can give any home incredible curb appeal. But while real cedar offers beauty, it also comes with several challenges—especially in Omaha, where harsh winters, hail, and humidity are the norm.

Here’s what you should know about natural cedar shake:

• Shorter Lifespan: Even with good maintenance, real cedar typically lasts only 20–30 years, far less than other premium roofing materials.
• Vulnerable to Weather: Cedar absorbs moisture, making it prone to cracking, warping, rotting, and mold, especially after snow and ice build-up.
• Fire Risk: Cedar is naturally flammable unless treated, which can be a concern for insurance and safety. Many insurance companies refuse to insure homes with cedar shake roofs or require them to be replaced every 10 years.
• Ongoing Maintenance: Natural shake requires regular cleaning, inspections, and occasional replacements to keep them looking and performing well.

Brava Cedar Shake: The Best of Both Worlds

Brava’s composite cedar shake tiles are engineered to capture the look and feel of authentic cedar without the drawbacks. Whether replacing a weather-worn roof or designing a new home, Brava offers the same aesthetic impact with greater durability and performance.

Here’s why more Omaha homeowners are choosing Brava:

• Incredible Realism: Brava uses molds cast from real cedar to replicate authentic shake’s grain, grooves, and split-face texture—down to the smallest detail.
• Durable & Long-Lasting: Brava shake tiles are warranted for 50 years, making them a smarter long-term investment than natural wood.
• Class A Fire Rated: Unlike untreated cedar, Brava tiles are fire-safe, giving you peace of mind and fewer insurance hassles.
• Impact & Weather Resistant: With a Class 4 impact rating and resistance to freeze/thaw cycles, Brava shake holds up beautifully in Omaha’s unpredictable weather, including hailstorms, which may save you thousands on your annual insurance premiums.
• Color Stability: Brava’s tiles are infused with UV-resistant pigments, meaning your roof will keep its color and vibrancy for decades without fading or discoloration.
• Low Maintenance: No mold, no rot, no warping; just a beautiful roof you can count on year after year.
  
  

As a bonus, Brava’s tiles are made from recycled materials and are fully recyclable, making them one of the most eco-friendly roofing options available today.

Built for Omaha Homes

Whether your home is a modern craftsman, a rustic estate, or a transitional stunner, Brava’s cedar shake tiles blend seamlessly with various architectural styles. And unlike natural cedar, they’re engineered to withstand the hail, snow, and wind we see here in the Midwest.

As an experienced Brava-certified contractor, Nastase Contracting offers expert guidance, installation, and support to ensure your composite shake roof performs as beautifully as it looks.

Let’s Talk About Your Roof

Want the warm, natural look of cedar shake without the high maintenance and short lifespan? Let’s discuss how a Brava composite shake roof can upgrade your Omaha home’s beauty, durability, and value.

Contact Nastase Contracting today to request a consultation. We’ll help you find the perfect roofing solution for your home—built to last through Nebraska’s most brutal weather.