Authentic Shake & Slate Profiles
High-definition textures and color options that closely replicate natural cedar and slate from street-level viewing distances
The Cedar Shake Alternative
Cedar shake and natural slate roofing deliver unmatched visual character but at a steep price: high installation costs, significant weight, demanding maintenance schedules, and vulnerability to fire, moisture, and impact damage. ABC Seamless steel shake and slate roofing options deliver the same dimensional character and premium curb appeal but are built from G-90 galvanized steel with Class 4 impact rating and a non-prorated lifetime warranty. It's the cedar shake. and natural slate alternative that outperforms the real thing 24/7 year after year.
Cedar Shake and Natural Slate have Hidden Costs
Cedar shake has genuine charm but natural wood requires significant ongoing maintenance to prevent rot, moisture damage, and pest infestation. Shake roofs typically need resealing every few years and full replacement within 20-30 years in most climates. In fire-prone regions, wood shake roofing carries additional risk and is restricted or prohibited in many jurisdictions.
Natural slate is extremely durable but extraordinarily expensive both to install and to repair, because matching specific slate profiles for repairs is difficult and the weight of natural slate (700-1,500 lbs per square) requires reinforced roof structure. A damaged slate tile can compromise the entire system.
The advantage of Steel Shake & Slate Roofs
G-90 Galvanized Steel
Durable, corrosion-resistant, and built for 50+ year performance
Non-Combustible
Steel qualifies for Class A fire resistance the highest classification available; ideal for fire-prone regions
Lightweight
100-150 lbs per square vs. 700-1,500 lbs for natural slate. No structural reinforcement required
Class 4 Impact Rating
Maximum hail protection; may qualify for insurance premium reductions
60 MPH Wind Resistance
Engineered for severe weather environments
UV Resistant
Kynar® Finish to ensure that the roof is fade, chalk, and UV resistant for decades without recoating
Lifetime Warranty
Great roof coverage that can transfer to new owners with Non-Prorated Transferable Lifetime Warranty.
Frequently Asked Questions About Steel Shake & Slate Roofing
Does steel shake roofing really look like real cedar?
Modern steel shake profiles closely replicate the visual character of natural cedar — particularly in high-definition color options that capture the depth, grain variation, and dimensional texture of real wood. From typical street-level viewing distances, the similarity is striking.
Is steel shake or slate roofing fire resistant?
Yes. Steel is a non-combustible material, and ABC Seamless shake and slate roofing qualifies for Class A fire resistance ratings — the highest classification available and a meaningful advantage in wildfire-prone regions where wood shake may be restricted or prohibited.
How does the weight of steel shake compare to natural slate?
ABC Seamless steel shake and slate profiles weigh 100—150 pounds per square (100 sq ft). Natural slate weighs 700—1,500 pounds per square. This dramatic weight difference means steel profiles can typically be installed without structural reinforcement and are appropriate for a much wider range of home structures.
What colors and profiles are available?
ABC Seamless steel shake and slate roofing is available in multiple color options designed to replicate the natural tones and variation of real wood and stone. Our local consultants can bring physical samples to your home and help you select the combination that best complements your home's architecture.