If you are sizing up the work, start with our page on wood shingle siding. Live nearby? See siding in Beaverdale. Doing your homework first? Read our guide on wood vs engineered wood siding.
Shake styles and patterns
Cedar shake siding gives your Des Moines home a rustic texture that other materials cannot match. We offer hand split shakes for a rougher look or sawn shingles for a cleaner appearance. These styles vary in width and thickness to create the exact depth you want.
Many homeowners in the Beaverdale area choose these natural patterns to maintain the character of their older homes. You can pick between straight edge patterns or staggered edges for a more cabin like feel. Our team helps you select the right wood grain to fit your neighborhood style.
Gable accents and dormer work
You do not have to cover your whole house in cedar shake siding to make an impact. We often install these shakes on gables in West Des Moines and Waukee to add visual interest. It breaks up the look of standard horizontal planks and increases curb appeal immediately.
Dormers and porch walls are also prime spots for cedar shake siding accents. We ensure the flashing and transition joints are tight to prevent water from getting behind the panels. This attention to detail protects your home from the heavy spring rains common in Central Iowa.
Maintenance and wood protection
Real wood shingle siding requires specific care to handle the Iowa freeze and thaw cycles. You will need to stain or seal it every few years to keep the colors from fading to gray. Our crews can explain the different oil finishes that work best for our humid summers and snowy winters.
If you prefer a weathered look, you can let it silver naturally over time. However, you must still check for rot or insect damage in the lower courses. We provide inspections to make sure your cedar shake siding remains structurally sound against the elements.
Vinyl shake siding alternatives
If the upkeep of real wood sounds like too much work, vinyl shake siding is a smart choice for Altoona and Ankeny residents. Modern polymer shakes mimic the texture of real wood without the need for painting or staining. They are molded from real cedar planks to capture every knot and grain line.
These alternatives stand up well against Iowa hail and high winds better than older plastic products. They do not rot or peel when the humidity spikes in July. You get the same aesthetic as cedar shake siding with much less work over the long term.
Get shake siding pricing
The cost of your project depends on whether you choose natural wood or a composite material. Real cedar shake siding has a higher upfront price but offers unmatched natural beauty. Vinyl options are generally more budget friendly and faster to install.
Contact us today for an estimate on your specific project in the Des Moines metro. We will measure your gables or full exterior and provide a clear price for labor and materials. Our team handles the permit process and site cleanup so you do not have to worry about a thing.