Cedar Shake Alternatives: What Are Your Options in South Dakota?

August 5, 2026

There's no denying the beauty of a cedar shake roof. With its natural texture, rich character, and timeless appearance, cedar has been a popular roofing choice for generations. But while homeowners love its curb appeal, many are surprised to learn about the maintenance, repairs, and ongoing costs that come with owning a natural cedar roof.

In South Dakota, where roofs are exposed to hail, high winds, heavy snow, ice, and dramatic temperature swings, choosing the right roofing material is especially important. If you love the look of cedar but want something that's more durable and easier to maintain, you're not alone.

Fortunately, today's homeowners have several excellent cedar shake alternatives that offer the same beautiful appearance with improved performance and longevity. Here's a closer look at your options.

Why Homeowners Are Looking for Cedar Shake Alternatives

Natural cedar roofing is beautiful, but it's also one of the most maintenance-intensive roofing materials available. Because cedar is a natural wood product, it reacts to moisture, sunlight, insects, and changing temperatures over time. In addition to ongoing maintenance, homeowners should also consider how a cedar roof may affect their homeowners insurance. Some insurance companies charge higher premiums, limit coverage, or have additional underwriting requirements for wood shake roofs due to their susceptibility to weather damage and fire risk.

Some of the most common concerns with cedar shake roofs include:

• Rot and moisture damage
• Cracked or split shakes
• Mold, mildew, and moss growth
• Insect damage
• Fading and weathering
• Regular maintenance and repairs
• Potentially higher insurance premiums or coverage restrictions, depending on your insurance provider

While many homeowners still appreciate cedar's natural appearance, others are searching for roofing materials that offer the same aesthetic without the upkeep.

Cedar Shake Alternative #1: Architectural Asphalt Shingles

Architectural asphalt shingles are one of the most common roofing materials used throughout South Dakota. They offer affordability, a wide variety of colors, and dependable performance for many homes.

Some manufacturers even produce shingles designed to resemble cedar shake from a distance.

Pros

• Lower upfront cost
• Wide range of colors and styles
• Easy to repair or replace
• Popular roofing choice

Cons

• Doesn't closely replicate real cedar
• Shorter lifespan than premium roofing materials
• May be more susceptible to hail damage over time

For homeowners looking for an economical roofing solution, architectural shingles remain an excellent choice. However, if you're hoping to achieve the authentic appearance of cedar, other options provide a much more realistic look.

Cedar Shake Alternative #2: Metal Roofing

Metal roofing has grown significantly in popularity thanks to its impressive durability and long lifespan. Some metal roofing systems are manufactured to resemble cedar shake while offering outstanding protection against severe weather.

Pros

• Exceptional longevity
• Excellent wind resistance
• Low maintenance
• Energy efficient

Cons

• Higher initial investment
• Appearance differs from authentic cedar
• Fewer texture and color variations than synthetic shake

Metal roofing is an outstanding option for homeowners prioritizing durability, though it offers a different appearance than traditional cedar.

Cedar Shake Alternative #3: Brava Synthetic Cedar Shake Roofing

For homeowners who want the beauty of cedar without the maintenance, Brava Synthetic Cedar Shake Roofing has become one of the most popular premium roofing options available.

Brava is engineered using advanced composite materials that replicate the natural grain, texture, and dimension of authentic hand-split cedar shakes. From the curb, and even up close, it's remarkably difficult to distinguish Brava from real cedar.

Unlike natural cedar, however, Brava won't rot, crack, split, or absorb moisture over time.

Why Homeowners Choose Brava

Authentic Cedar Appearance

Brava is carefully designed to capture the natural beauty of real cedar. Each shake features realistic wood grain, varied widths, deep shadow lines, and rich color variation that create a truly authentic appearance.

Virtually Maintenance-Free

Natural cedar often requires staining, sealing, cleaning, and replacing damaged shakes. Brava eliminates nearly all of that maintenance, allowing homeowners to enjoy the look of cedar without the ongoing work.

Built for South Dakota Weather

South Dakota homeowners know that every season brings new challenges. From damaging hailstorms and high winds to heavy snow and freezing temperatures, your roof needs to perform year-round.

Brava Synthetic Cedar Shake Roofing is engineered to withstand harsh weather conditions while maintaining its beauty and structural integrity for decades.

Long-Lasting Performance

Because Brava is manufactured from durable composite materials, it resists many of the problems associated with natural wood, including moisture damage, insect activity, and weather-related deterioration.

For homeowners planning to stay in their homes long-term, Brava offers exceptional value and peace of mind.

Which Cedar Shake Alternative Is Right for You?

The best roofing material depends on your home's style, your budget, and your long-term goals.

If affordability is your primary concern, architectural asphalt shingles may be the right fit.

If maximum durability is your priority, metal roofing is an excellent option.

However, if you're looking for the closest alternative to natural cedar while minimizing maintenance and maximizing curb appeal, Brava Synthetic Cedar Shake Roofing stands out as one of the best investments you can make.

It delivers the warmth and character of cedar while offering the durability and performance today's homeowners expect.

Why Brava Is Ideal for Homes in South Dakota

South Dakota's climate demands a roofing system that can handle everything from severe thunderstorms and hail to heavy snow loads and dramatic temperature changes.

Unlike natural cedar, Brava Synthetic Cedar Shake Roofing is engineered to resist moisture, maintain its appearance, and perform reliably through every season. That combination of beauty and durability makes it an ideal choice for homeowners throughout Sioux Falls and the surrounding communities.

If you're considering a new roof, feel free to take a look at our past projects, visit our gallery, and check out our YouTube channel. All our work comes with open communication, the latest technologies, and the commitment only found at a family-owned remodeling company.