Cedar Shake Square & Exposure Estimator

The 'exposure' is the amount of the shake that remains visible after installation. A standard 7.5-inch exposure provides the highest moisture protection but requires more material. Increasing to 10-inch exposure reduces material costs but is only recommended for steeper pitches (8/12+) and may impact the longevity of the underlying felt system.

The first course at the eave must have a double layer of shakes to prevent moisture from wicking up into the roof deck. If you omit the extra 'Starter Squares' in your estimate, you are significantly under-ordering and creating a massive liability for leaks at the bottom of the system.