Answering your search for hand split shake siding, this guide highlights top picks that balance authentic texture with durability and installer friendliness. Best for homeowners seeking a rugged, natural look, and for contractors prioritizing straightforward installation or vintage charm. The table below summarizes five strong options and who they are best for.
| Product | Best For |
|---|---|
| WRC 24″ X 1/2″ #1 Medium HANDSPLITS | Authentic cedar grain, mid-length for versatile coverage |
| The Foundry 7″ Vinyl Weathered Split Shake – 1 Square | Low maintenance vinyl, weathered look |
| The Foundry 7″ Vinyl Split Shakes – 1 Square (Pack 1) | Classic split-shake aesthetic, easy install |
| The Foundry 7″ Vinyl Split Shakes – 1 Square (Pack 2) | Even coverage with consistent keyway |
| The Foundry 7″ Vinyl Split Shakes – 1 Square (Pack 3) | Natural look with simple carton sizing |
WRC 24″ X 1/2″ #1 Medium HANDSPLITS
Features: Made from high-quality Western Red Cedar, 24-inch length for versatile coverage, Medium handsplit face for a rugged, natural look.
Best for: Homeowners seeking an authentic cedar texture with generous coverage per piece. Cedar handsplits are favored for traditional facades and restoration projects.
Why selected: The longer 24-inch size reduces joint visibility and speeds up alignment on larger surfaces.
Caution: Cedar is a natural material and may weather or patina; consider rust-resistant nails for outdoor exposure.
The Foundry 7″ Vinyl Weathered Split Shake – 1 Square
Features: Single course design, Controlling keyway width at the lap, Low thermal expansion.
Best for: Projects needing a weathered vinyl shake look without wood maintenance.
Why selected: Vinyl provides consistent color and size with minimal upkeep, suitable for large exterior applications.
Caution: Vinyl shakes may not perfectly mimic real wood grain on very close inspections; consider edge detailing for realism.
The Foundry 7″ Vinyl Split Shakes – 1 Square (Pack 1)
Features: Single course design, Controlling keyway width at the lap, Creates a natural, installed look.
Best for: Contractors seeking a straightforward vinyl option with clean, uniform lines for quick installation.
Why selected: The 7″ width aligns well with traditional shake aesthetics while supporting efficient coverage per carton.
Caution: Check carton contents for consistency in shake width to maintain uniform appearance across a project.
The Foundry 7″ Vinyl Split Shakes – 1 Square (Pack 2)
Features: Single course design, Controlling keyway width at the lap, Creates a natural, installed look.
Best for: Projects needing uniform color and easy maintenance with a natural installed appearance.
Why selected: Offers consistent keyway control for seamless rows and predictable installation results.
Caution: Vinyl may expand slightly with temperature fluctuations; plan for expansion gaps as needed.
The Foundry 7″ Vinyl Split Shakes – 1 Square (Pack 3)
Features: Single course design, Length 60-3/4″, Width: 7″, 34 panels per carton (1 square), sold per carton only.
Best for: Projects requiring detailed per-cardon coverage and a consistent 1-square sizing for planning.
Why selected: The fixed carton size helps with precise budgeting and layout planning for larger installations.
Caution: Must purchase in full carton quantities; plan waste allowances for cuts and corners.
Buying Guide
- Material vs. appearance: Real cedar handsplits deliver authentic texture but require maintenance; vinyl options mimic the look with lower upkeep.
- Size and coverage: Larger lengths (24″) reduce joints; 7″ shakes offer traditional scale but may require more pieces for the same area.
- Installation considerations: Single course designs simplify alignment; check keyway widths to ensure uniform laps across courses.
- Durability and climate: Wood ages naturally and may weather; vinyl resists moisture and temperature shifts but may lack deep grain realism.
- Carton quantities: Some vinyl shakes are sold per carton; plan for exact counts to avoid shortages on site.
- Maintenance needs: Wood can require sealing and periodic upkeep; vinyl typically needs cleaning and occasional inspection for gaps.
- Cosmetic matching: If replacing existing siding, aim for similar width and profile to maintain a cohesive facade.
FAQ
Q: Which option is best for a cedar-look finish with minimal maintenance?
A: The hand split cedar pieces provide an authentic look, but be prepared for ongoing maintenance compared to vinyl options.
Q: Are vinyl split shakes more expensive than wood shakes?
A: Vinyl typically has lower ongoing maintenance costs, but initial pricing varies by brand and quantity.
Q: How do I ensure consistent color across a project?
A: Order shakes in the same lot or carton series and mix sheets from multiple cartons evenly during installation.
Q: What does “single course design” mean for installation?
A: It means each shake is designed to be installed in a single horizontal row, simplifying alignment and lowering skill requirements.
Q: How do I plan for expansion gaps?
A: Allow small gaps at edges and corners to accommodate temperature-driven expansion, especially for vinyl.
Q: Can I mix cedar and vinyl shakes on the same wall?
A: It’s possible for accent sections, but transitions should be planned to maintain a cohesive look and consistent installation depth.