UPDATED FOR 2025
CertainTeed Presidential Shake Shingles Review: Wood Shake Beauty
Are Presidential Shake shingles for you? Find out in this comprehensive CertainTeed Presidential Shake shingles review.
Key Takeaways:
- Presidential Shake replicates hand-split cedar shakes with multi-layered dimensional design
- Class A fire rating beats wood shake’s combustibility while maintaining authentic appearance
- 110 mph wind resistance standard, 130 mph when certified-installed
- StreakFighter algae protection keeps your roof clean in humid climates
- Lifetime warranty with 50-year coverage and 25-year labor protection from certified installers
Love the look of cedar shake roofing?
Hate the maintenance, cost, and fire risk?
Presidential Shake solves that problem. These luxury shingles from CertainTeed capture the rustic, textured appearance of traditional wood shakes while delivering the durability, fire resistance, and low maintenance that modern homeowners need.
We’ve been installing Presidential Shake roofs across Long Island for over 35 years. We’ve seen how they perform through coastal storms, summer heat, winter freeze-thaw cycles, and salt air exposure.
Below, we’ll break down what makes Presidential Shake different and whether these premium shingles are right for your home.
What Presidential Shake Delivers
Presidential Shake sits at the top of CertainTeed’s luxury shingle collection.
The shingles feature multi-layered, high-profile design with staggered tabs. This creates the irregular, textured surface characteristic of natural wood shake roofing. The dimensional quality is immediately apparent.
Multiple laminated layers create depth and shadow lines. This three-dimensional appearance changes throughout the day as sunlight hits from different angles. You get the same dynamic visual effect you’d get from genuine wood shakes.
Construction That Exceeds Standard Shingles
CertainTeed manufactures Presidential Shake using premium asphalt blended with ceramic-coated granules.
These granules protect against UV damage while contributing to the authentic shake appearance. The Max Def color technology creates rich, multidimensional hues that resist fading for decades.
The weight reflects substantial construction. This contributes to better sound dampening, improved insulation properties, and enhanced wind resistance compared to lighter alternatives.
As part of CertainTeed’s complete Integrity Roof System, these shingles integrate perfectly with underlayment, ventilation, and accessory components designed to work together.
Now let’s talk about why Presidential Shake beats real wood shakes.
FINANCE YOUR HOME IMPROVEMENT PROJECT TODAY
0% Financing, Quick and Easy Approval
With nearly four decades serving homeowners under our belt, we know what’s needed to make your roofing project a success.
When you work with County Roofing, you get only the best. As little as 0% interest on approval for 5 years, quick approval, easy pay, and all backed by the best guarantees in the industry.
Why Presidential Shake Beats Real Wood Shakes
If you’ve been drawn to cedar shake roofing, Presidential Shake offers compelling advantages.
Fire Safety Matters Most
Real wood shakes are combustible.
They’re vulnerable to flying embers from nearby fires. Lightning strikes can ignite them. This puts your family and property at risk.
Presidential Shake carries Class A fire rating—the highest available. These shingles withstand extended flame exposure without igniting. This protection matters for your family’s safety. It often translates to lower insurance premiums too.
Maintenance Requirements Drop Dramatically
Wood shakes need regular treatments to prevent rot, mold, and insect infestation.
They split. They warp. They deteriorate over time. This requires frequent repairs and eventual replacement much sooner than asphalt alternatives.
Presidential Shake requires minimal maintenance beyond occasional inspections and gutter cleaning. You’re not constantly treating, repairing, or replacing damaged shakes.
Cost Efficiency Over Time
Presidential Shake represents premium investment upfront.
But total cost of ownership over 30-plus years is significantly lower than wood shakes. Factor in treatments, repairs, and earlier replacement needs. The math favors Presidential Shake decisively.
Weather Resistance Is Dramatically Better
Wood shakes absorb moisture.
This leads to rot, mold, and structural problems. Presidential Shake shingles shed water effectively while resisting algae growth, wind damage, and impact from debris.
In our humid coastal climate with salt air, these advantages make tangible difference in roof longevity. Wood shakes simply can’t compete with modern asphalt performance.
Let’s discuss how Presidential Shake performs in real conditions.
How Presidential Shake Handles Long Island Weather
Long Island’s climate tests roofing materials year-round.
We face hot, humid summers. Cold, wet winters. Coastal storms. Nor’easters. Occasional hurricanes. Presidential Shake has proven itself capable of handling all these conditions.
Wind Resistance You Can Trust
Standard installation withstands 110 mph winds.
When we install Presidential Shake following complete CertainTeed specifications, that rating increases to 130 mph with appropriate warranty coverage. We’re a CertainTeed SELECT ShingleMaster, which means we meet those specifications exactly.
We’ve seen Presidential Shake roofs survive major wind events without damage. Neighboring homes with lesser products suffered shingle loss. Presidential Shake stayed put.
Algae Resistance That Actually Works
StreakFighter technology incorporates copper granules throughout the shingles.
These inhibit algae growth. This matters significantly in our humid environment where dark streaks commonly develop on untreated roofs. Presidential Shake roofs maintain clean appearance far longer than standard shingles.
Homes in heavily shaded areas or near significant tree cover may eventually develop some algae growth. But onset is delayed and severity reduced compared to untreated alternatives.
Moisture Resistance Built In
Unlike wood shakes that absorb water and deteriorate, Presidential Shake shingles shed moisture effectively.
The multi-layered construction and proper installation create multiple defense layers against water infiltration. Your home stays protected even during heavy sustained rain.
Temperature Extremes Don’t Faze These Shingles
Ceramic-coated granules protect against UV damage during intense summer sun.
Flexible asphalt composition prevents cracking during winter cold snaps. The weight and thickness provide better insulation than standard shingles, helping regulate attic temperatures year-round.
Salt Air Exposure Along the Coast
We’ve installed Presidential Shake on homes ranging from inland areas to beachfront properties.
Coastal installations hold up just as well as those further from water. Salt air hasn’t shown adverse effects on performance. The granule adhesion remains strong. The asphalt composition resists degradation from coastal exposure.
Now let’s talk about color options and appearance.
THE BEST GUARANTEE IN THE INDUSTRY
50-Year Material, 25-Year Labor Guarantee
We’ve met the toughest requirements in the residential roofing industry- and we use only the best materials.
That’s why we stand behind our work with the best guarantee in the industry– including warranties only 2% of roofing companies can offer.
Your house deserves the best roofing warranty on the market. Give us a call today and get a brand new roof with a 50-year material, 25-year labor warranty from the best roofing contractor in Long Island and New York.
Colors That Enhance Any Architectural Style
Presidential Shake comes in carefully curated palette designed to complement the shake aesthetic.
Max Def color technology creates depth and dimension within each shingle. Subtle variations mimic natural color variations found in cedar shakes. This authenticity sets Presidential Shake apart from flat-colored alternatives.
Popular Color Options
Shadow Gray captures weathered wood appearance.
Gatehouse Slate provides sophisticated gray tones. Aged Cedar offers warm, traditional coloring. Weathered Wood delivers authentic barn-wood aesthetic. Burnt Sienna creates rich, rustic appearance.
Each color features multiple tones and shading that create visual interest. The granule composition ensures colors resist fading even after decades of sun exposure.
Where Presidential Shake Shines
The dimensional profile works particularly well on homes with complex rooflines.
Craftsman, Tudor, cottage, and rustic contemporary homes all benefit from Presidential Shake’s authentic appearance. Even traditional colonial or Cape Cod homes gain character and distinction.
The texture and shadow lines need to be visible to fully appreciate. If your roof is prominent architectural feature, Presidential Shake enhances those elements beautifully.
Let’s discuss installation requirements.
Why Professional Installation Matters
Presidential Shake isn’t a basic product.
These luxury shingles require experienced professionals who understand both technical requirements and aesthetic nuances of creating beautiful shake-style roof.
Weight Verification Comes First
Substantial weight means verifying your roof structure can support the load.
Most modern homes handle this without issue. Older construction or homes with previous structural concerns may need reinforcement. We assess this during initial inspection and provide recommendations if strengthening is necessary.
Following the Integrity Roof System
Proper installation follows CertainTeed Integrity Roof System specifications.
Multiple underlayment layers for enhanced weather protection. Correctly positioned starter strips. Precise nailing patterns accounting for shingle weight. Careful attention to flashing details around all roof penetrations and transitions.
Each shingle needs positioning that creates irregular, authentic shake appearance while ensuring proper overlap and weather protection. Rushing produces inferior results.
Why Certification Matters
As CertainTeed SELECT ShingleMaster contractor, we’ve demonstrated our expertise through comprehensive examinations.
We’ve met strict quality standards. We maintain high customer satisfaction. This certification ensures your Presidential Shake roof qualifies for CertainTeed’s best warranty coverage.
Our 25-year labor warranty backs up this quality commitment. We stand behind your roof for decades, not just during installation.
Let’s talk about warranty protection.
Warranty Coverage That Protects Your Investment
Presidential Shake comes with exceptional warranty protection.
CertainTeed provides lifetime limited warranty covering manufacturing defects. SureStart PLUS coverage offers 100 percent material and labor cost coverage for first 10 years with no depreciation.
What County Roofing Systems Adds
When we install your Presidential Shake roof, you receive:
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50 years of coverage against manufacturing defects
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25 years of labor warranty from us
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Enhanced wind warranty protection up to 130 mph
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15-year StreakFighter algae resistance warranty
This comprehensive coverage exceeds what most manufacturers offer. It demonstrates both CertainTeed’s confidence in their product and our confidence in our installation quality.
The 25-year labor warranty is particularly valuable. Most roofing contractors only offer few years of labor coverage, if any. This extended warranty reflects our confidence that your roof will perform reliably throughout its lifespan.
Get the best warranty in the industry with County Roofing, and a roof that will last you longer than the competition.
Fill out the form below or give us a call today at (888) 366-6619:
Understanding the Investment
Presidential Shake represents premium investment.
Expect to pay 50 to 80 percent more than mid-range architectural shingles for comparable roof area. Pricing reflects both superior materials and expertise required for proper installation.
Value Beyond Initial Cost
Presidential Shake delivers exceptional durability.
This translates to longer lifespan with fewer repairs. Enhanced construction withstands weather extremes better than standard products. You’re less likely to need storm damage repairs. The roof simply lasts longer before requiring replacement.
Significant curb appeal enhancement provides immediate visual impact that can increase home value. Real estate professionals consistently note that homes with premium roofing command higher prices and sell faster.
Lower maintenance requirements save time and money over years. You won’t spend on treatments, repairs, and early replacements that wood shakes demand.
Energy efficiency benefits from improved insulation properties contribute to reduced heating and cooling costs. While savings won’t offset entire cost premium, they improve overall value proposition.
Financing Options Available
We offer financing for qualified customers.
This spreads investment over time rather than requiring everything upfront. You get the roof you want without immediate budget strain.
Who should choose Presidential Shake?
Is Presidential Shake Right for Your Home
Presidential Shake is ideal for specific homeowners and situations.
Ideal Candidates
You want authentic wood shake appearance without maintenance and durability issues. You appreciate architectural details and want your roof to enhance your home’s character.
You plan to stay in your home long enough to justify premium investment. You value comprehensive warranty coverage and proven long-term performance. You live in areas where appearance matters for property values.
When to Consider Alternatives
Budget constraints require focusing on most cost-effective option. Your home has simple roofline where dimensional quality won’t be fully visible.
You plan to sell soon and won’t recoup investment premium. Your roof structure requires expensive reinforcement to support the weight.
For the right home and homeowner, Presidential Shake provides unbeatable combination of aesthetics, durability, and performance.
Let’s wrap this up with clear guidance.
Get Expert Guidance on Your Roofing Decision
Considering Presidential Shake for your home?
Schedule consultation. We’ll evaluate your roof structure, discuss your goals and preferences, show you color samples, and provide detailed installation estimate.
We can often direct you to nearby homes with Presidential Shake roofs. Seeing product in person rather than relying solely on photos helps you make informed decision.
Why Work With Certified Installers
Our CertainTeed SELECT ShingleMaster certification and 35-plus years experience with luxury roofing products means we know what works.
We’ll give you honest advice about whether Presidential Shake is right fit for your situation or if another option might serve you better.
Call County Roofing Systems today. We’ll guide you through every aspect of the decision and installation process. Presidential Shake delivers wood shake beauty combined with modern roofing technology that protects your home for decades.
Fast & Easy Financing with County Roofing
Financing your commercial roofing project has never been easier.
With County Roofing, you can get fast approvals with as low as 0% financing on new roofing projects for up to 15 years, with payments as low as $149:
First Approvals
0% financing
No income check
Up to 15 years
Monthly payments as low as $149
Fill out the form below or give us a call at (888) 366-6619 today to get started:
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Frequently Asked Questions
How long do Presidential Shake shingles last?
Presidential Shake typically lasts 30 to 40 years with proper installation and maintenance. The heavyweight construction and quality materials resist weather damage better than standard shingles. Real wood shakes often need replacement after 20 to 25 years, making Presidential Shake the more durable long-term choice.
What's the difference between Presidential Shake and real wood shakes?
Presidential Shake offers Class A fire rating while wood shakes are combustible. Presidential Shake requires minimal maintenance while wood needs regular treatments. It resists moisture, rot, and insect damage that plague wood shakes. Presidential Shake weighs less and costs less to install while providing similar or better lifespan.
Can Presidential Shake be installed in winter?
Yes, though winter installation requires specialized techniques. Temperatures below 40°F prevent proper thermal sealing, requiring hand-sealing methods. We’ve successfully installed Presidential Shake in all seasons. However, spring or fall offers ideal conditions for fastest, most efficient installation.
Does Presidential Shake qualify for insurance discounts?
The Class A fire rating may qualify for insurance discounts. Wind resistance rating can reduce premiums in coastal areas. Contact your insurance provider to discuss specific discounts available. Documentation of professional installation by certified contractor helps maximize potential savings.
How does Presidential Shake compare to Grand Manor?
Both are CertainTeed luxury lines. Presidential Shake mimics wood shake appearance with staggered tabs. Grand Manor replicates slate with layered dimensional profile. Both offer similar durability, wind resistance, and warranty coverage. Choice depends on your preferred aesthetic—rustic wood shake versus elegant slate.
What maintenance does Presidential Shake require?
Keep gutters clear of debris. Trim overhanging branches to prevent damage. Schedule annual inspections to catch minor issues early. The algae-resistant technology reduces need for roof cleaning. Avoid walking on roof unnecessarily to prevent granule loss or damage. That’s essentially it—minimal maintenance required.
