cost aside, is cedar shake a good roofing option?

we are looking at our roofing and siding options for a home we hope to sell someday (say 3 years or so) I have a connection where I can get wood for cost, and that includes cedar shake. I love the look both on the roof and siding and feel I am able to do the job, but is it a good option? I am in extreme northwest arkansas and I'm not sure how that type of roof would do around here. Not much snow load, some ice each winter, but for the most part, not extreme weather. So, cost aside, what do your pros think about cedar? What are it's weaknesses and strengths etc, etc. Thanks in advance.

 

This is my opinion. Cedar shakes on a roof have a limited appeal. Some will love it, many won't. Since you are thinking of selling in a few years you should be building for what will sell best. Today some of the new architectural shingles have a 50 years warranty, now that is something people will appreciate.

My first house had cedar siding and we loved it, but I recently drove by the old home and it looks like a tar paper shack. The cedar has turned black. I know it can be treated, but I sure was disappointed.

The years go by a lot faster than you would expect, so using materials that last a long time will be appreciated sooner than you think.

good luck
bud