Squirrel-Resistant Synthetic Shakes Relieve Homeowner
Once hail destroyed his real cedar roof, John Robinson had some decisions to make. Replace his roof with real cedar again, or consider an alternative?
Several factors swayed Robinson toward a synthetic shake roof. Less long-term maintenance. Impact protection from future hail damage. And, quite interestingly, cutting off a food source for area squirrels.
“We’ve lived in this house for more than seven years,” says Robinson, a resident of Yorkville, Illinois. “During that time I’ve had issues with squirrels chewing on the real cedar shakes. They try to get into the attic and nest. I’d hear them scurrying about on the rooftop all the time in the past.”
Synthetic Shake Appearance Exceeds Expectations
When it came time for the homeowner to research a new roof, he remembered his time serving on the neighborhood HOA Board. He was also on the Architectural Review Committee for his community.
“Someone presented DaVinci as an option for replacing their cedar shakes several years ago,” says Robinson. “That was six years ago. Since then the Select Shake line has been introduced. These synthetic shakes appear even more realistic than the original product line. They look like most of the ‘real cedar’ roof that’s in our neighborhood. Most people can’t tell the difference.”
Select Shake tiles capture the authentic look of real cedar shake. The impact- and fire-resistant shakes add beauty and value to homes. 5/8-inch thick traditional shake profiles come in 11 color blends and create a finished multi-width look. Ideal for high humidity, severe weather and fire zone areas. Realistic composite cedar tiles resist fading, rotting, cracks, insects. Synthetic shake tiles will not split or curl.
According to Robinson, the lifetime limited material warranty and minimal maintenance sold him on investing in the squirrel-resistant synthetic shakes. “Even in 25 years this will still be a great-looking roof with an extremely long warranty,” says the homeowner.
DaVinci Roof Elevates Curb Appeal
When it came time for installation, Cornerstone Restoration was hired to do the job.
“We have a very steep roof,” says Robinson. “There are many peaks on a fairly large rooftop. That roofing team scaled and installed those pieces with amazing talent.
“Bill Jew with Cornerstone Restoration is the guy you want to deal with! He’s always up front about how things are going. Bill always works his hardest to make everything right. We’re extremely pleased with both the company and the DaVinci product.
“I thought the house looked great before. However, with the new Select Shake roof it’s stunning.”
And what about the squirrel?
“After switching to DaVinci we haven’t had any issues,” says Robinson. “Early one morning I heard a thump and what sounded like something sliding off the roof. Then a few minutes later the same thump and swoosh. I think my old pal was trying to get back into the attic.
“Select Shake is a lot more slippery than the real cedar shakes … he’ll just have to go somewhere else to live!”