Cedar Roofing in North Vancouver and West Vancouver
- Roofing Contractor Association of BC (RCABC) Ticketed Installers
- BC-licensed & fully insured
- 18+ Years in Business
- BC Hydro Approved Installers
- In-house roofers
- Industry-leading warranties on all work
- Google Guaranteed | BBB Accredited | WorkSafeBC Compliant
- Eco-friendly materials & sustainable practices
- CertainTeed & Malarkey Certified Shingle Installers
- Specialized metal roofing crews with on-site standing seam fabrication
Schedule FREE Inspection Today!
Certified. Awarded. Trusted.
Premium Cedar Roofing for North Shore Homes
Eco Exteriors only installs #1 Grade (Blue Label) Western Red Cedar. This is the highest grade available from the Cedar Shake and Shingle Bureau — 100% clear, vertical grain, with no knots or imperfections. It’s the grade your home deserves.
Whether you’re replacing a tired cedar roof on a Deep Cove heritage property or installing a premium shake system on a custom-built home in the British Properties, we bring the same standard of workmanship to every project.
Cedar Roofing Services We Offer
Cedar Roof Installation
New cedar roof installs for residential homes across the North Shore. We assess your home’s pitch, structure, and ventilation needs before recommending the right cedar system. Full underlayment, flashing, and ridge system included.
Cedar Roof Replacement
Is your cedar roof past 20–25 years? We strip the old system, inspect the decking for moisture damage, and install a fresh cedar roof that protects your home for the next 30+ years. We also discuss sustainable alternatives like EnviroShake if cedar no longer fits your maintenance budget.
Cedar Roof Repair
Missing shakes, failed flashing, moss penetration, splitting along ridgelines — we repair the specific damage without upselling a full replacement you don’t need. Honest assessments are part of how we operate.
Why Cedar Roofing Fits the North Shore Like Nothing Else
It Was Built for This Landscape
North Vancouver and West Vancouver are forested, coastal, and steep. The homes here — from the heritage craftsmen in Edgemont to the modern estates above Dundarave — were designed with natural materials in mind. Cedar roofing belongs here architecturally in a way that asphalt shingles and metal panels never quite replicate.
Natural Insulation in a Climate That Demands It
Cedar has natural thermal insulating properties approximately twice those of standard asphalt shingles. In a climate where wet winters and warm summers put consistent pressure on your home's energy efficiency, that matters. A properly installed cedar roof contributes to keeping heat in during North Shore winters and moderating temperature during the dry summer months.
Sustainability on the North Shore
Eco Exteriors has been committed to sustainable roofing since 2008. We source cedar from suppliers who practice responsible forestry — and Western Red Cedar itself is a renewable, biodegradable natural resource. For North Shore homeowners who care about minimizing their environmental footprint, cedar is one of the most honest choices available.
Wind and Impact Performance
Coastal winds off Burrard Inlet and the mountain gaps above West Vancouver can be significant. Premium architectural shingles are rated for wind resistance well above standard installations. Properly installed with manufacturer-specified fastening patterns, they stay secure in the conditions North Shore homes actually face.
Cedar Shakes vs. Cedar Shingles — Which Is Right for Your Home?
Both are Western Red Cedar. Both are premium roofing materials. The difference comes down to profile, texture, and the look you want to achieve.
Cedar Shakes
Cedar shakes are split from cedar logs, giving them a thicker, rougher, more textured surface. That split face creates a deeply dimensional, handcrafted appearance that reads as authentically Pacific Northwest.
Best for:
- Heritage and craftsman homes
- Steep-slope rooflines
- Forested, mountain-facing properties
- Homeowners wanting maximum curb presence and visual depth
Performance:
- Thicker profile means superior insulation
- Greater shadow line creates visual dimension on the roofline
- Lifespan of 25–40 years with proper maintenance in Vancouver’s climate
Cedar Shingles
Cedar shingles are sawn on both sides, producing a smoother, more uniform taper. The result is a refined, polished look that suits both traditional and contemporary architectural styles — including the clean-lined West Coast Modern homes common throughout West Vancouver.
Best for:
- Modern and West Coast contemporary homes
- Properties where a cleaner roofline is preferred
- Homeowners who want cedar’s natural character with a more refined finish
Performance:
- Slightly more uniform water-shedding profile
- Versatile across a wider range of roof pitches
- Lower entry point compared to premium hand-split shakes
#1 Grade (Blue Label) Cedar — The Only Grade We Use
Not all cedar is graded equally. The Cedar Shake and Shingle Bureau (CSSB) grades cedar on grain consistency, thickness, and clearness. We exclusively install #1 Grade — the highest classification available. This is 100% clear, vertical grain cedar with no knots. It’s more expensive than lower grades, and it lasts significantly longer.
How Long Does Cedar Roofing Last in North Vancouver?
This is the question we get asked most. The honest answer: it depends on how well it’s maintained.
| Maintenance Level | Expected Lifespan in Metro Vancouver |
|---|---|
| No maintenance | 10–15 years |
| Basic (cleaning only) | 18–22 years |
| Full professional care every 3–5 years | 30–40 years |
| Premium old-growth cedar with expert care | 40–50 years |
The North Vancouver Factor: North Vancouver receives 1,500–2,000mm of annual rainfall in forested areas like Deep Cove and Lynn Valley. This is one of the wettest microclimates in Metro Vancouver. Moss growth, trapped moisture, and biological decay all accelerate cedar deterioration without consistent care. We’re direct with every client about what cedar maintenance requires before they commit to it.
Key Performance Factors:
- Ventilation: Cedar is a breathable roofing system. Proper airflow underneath prevents moisture from being trapped against the decking — this is one of the biggest installation variables.
- Underlayment: We use high-quality synthetic underlayment beneath every cedar installation for a secondary moisture barrier, critical in North Shore conditions.
- Flashing systems: Cedar roofs fail most often at flashings — around chimneys, skylights, and valleys. Our flashing work is built to last the life of the cedar, not just a few years.
- Moss and algae management: Organic growth holds moisture against the wood and dramatically accelerates decay. We recommend professional treatment every 2–3 years.
Grading and Certification: Ensuring Quality and Sustainability
Not all cedar shakes and shingles are created equal. To ensure you’re getting the highest quality materials for your roof, it’s crucial to understand the grading system and the importance of certification.
Cedar Shakes
#1 Grade (Blue Label)
This is the highest grade of cedar, featuring 100% clear, vertical grain wood. Blue Label cedar is the most durable and aesthetically pleasing, but it is also the most expensive.
#2 Grade (Red Label)
This grade is considered a good balance of quality and affordability. It may contain some minor imperfections or knots but is still a durable and attractive option for most roofs.
#3 Grade
This grade is typically used for secondary structures like sheds or fences and is not recommended for roofing.
The Cedar Shake & Shingle Bureau (CSSB) is a non-profit organization that establishes and maintains quality standards for cedar shakes and shingles. They have developed a grading system that helps consumers identify the quality and characteristics of different cedar products.
Choosing certified cedar shakes and shingles ensures that you’re getting products that meet stringent quality standards. Certified products have been inspected by an independent third party and have been verified to meet the CSSB’s grading rules. This means you can be confident in the quality and performance of your cedar roof.
At Eco Exteriors, we’re proud to be certified by the CSSB. We source our cedar from reputable suppliers who adhere to sustainable forestry practices and offer certified products. This allows us to provide our customers with the highest quality cedar roofing solutions that are both beautiful and environmentally responsible.
SERVICE AREAS
Serving North Van, West Van & Greater Vancouver
Our expert roofing team works across the North Shore and throughout the Lower Mainland, including:
North Vancouver
Richmond
Our Cedar Roof Installation Process
We don’t rush cedar installs. The quality of preparation is what separates a cedar roof that lasts 15 years from one that lasts 40.
Step 1 — Free Consultation & Roof Assessment
We start by inspecting your current roof, your home's pitch and structure, and the specific drainage and ventilation conditions. This gives us the information to make honest, informed recommendations.
Step 2 — Cedar System Recommendation
Shakes or shingles? #1 Grade (Blue Label) is our standard. We'll walk you through what each option looks like, how it performs, and what maintenance looks like over time.
Step 3 — Detailed Estimate
Transparent pricing with no hidden fees. We'll give you a written scope of work before any project begins.
Step 4 — Tear-Off & Deck Inspection
We remove the old roofing system and inspect every board of your roof deck for moisture damage. Any compromised decking is replaced before installation begins — this step is non-negotiable.
Step 5 — Underlayment & Flashing Installation
Premium synthetic underlayment goes down first. All flashings — valleys, chimneys, skylights, vents — are installed before a single shake or shingle is placed.
Step 6 — Cedar Installation
Each shake or shingle is individually placed and secured. Ridge caps, ventilation systems, and all edge details are completed to manufacturer specification.
Step 7 — Site Cleanup & Final Walkthrough
We leave your property clean. Before we close out the project, we walk the roof with you, explain maintenance requirements, and answer every question you have.
Why Homeowners Choose Eco Exteriors
18 Years on the North Shore
Eco Exteriors was founded in 2008 by Douglas Jackson, a North Shore native who grew up understanding the demands of this climate. We're not a contractor that showed up in Vancouver recently. We've roofed through every storm season since 2008 and we know what performs here.
Industry-Leading Warranties
We carry workmanship warranties on our own installations, manufacturer warranties on all materials, and Google Guaranteed coverage that provides an additional layer of protection. On metal roofing systems, we offer a non-prorated lifetime warranty.
Licensed, Certified, and Insured
We're registered with WorkSafeBC, accredited with the BBB at an A+ rating, and Google Guaranteed. We're a CertainTeed ShingleMaster contractor and a Certified Pro Contractor by Malarkey Roofing Products. These aren't self-designations — they involve third-party audits, inspections, and ongoing compliance.
Transparent Pricing
No hidden fees. No scope surprises. We provide clear, written estimates before work begins and we communicate changes as they arise.
Eco-Conscious Practices
We prioritize materials with recycled content, sustainable sourcing, and long lifespans. A roof that lasts 40 years instead of 20 is better for your budget and better for the environment — and we'll always tell you which option delivers the better long-term value.
24/7 Emergency Service
Active roof leak on a rainy Wednesday at 2am? Call us. We respond.
Rated 9.9/10 on HomeStars · ThreeBestRated Best Business 2026 · Member, British Columbia Sustainable Energy Association · Member, CHOA
What Our Customers Say About Us
We've completed flat & low slope roofing projects across North Vancouver, West Vancouver, and Vancouver. Here's what our customers say.
Fast, responsive and very helpful.
James
Wholeheartedly recommend working with them if you need roofing work.
1. If I was told this, I would have looked at the weather before making the appointment. 2. I called two other roofing companies and both showed up had no problem going on the roof in the rain.
He gets two stars because he actually called to cancel. (The bar is set low with trades these days.)
The affect a new roof has on the curb appeal of your house is enormous, not to mention the comfort you gain knowing that everything is watertight for the oncoming winter - you need the installation done right. Doug, Rada and team were awesome from beginning to end - from clear details of what was being installed in the quote to how they protected the rest of the house and deck during demolition and installation - they went the extra mile.
They easily dealt with some curveballs we threw to them too. They removed our leaky (and now unused) chimneys above the roofline, giving the home a much cleaner look and installed snow guards.
Doug took time to work through a water egress issue that was not related to the roof installation - including helping me cut drywall open! - determined to find a solution the issue. Which we did.
We also required some more specialized carpentry work. Doug leveraged his own network to get us somebody to complete it.
It's not easy to find a company that that you can trust with such competitive pricing and such high quality craftsmanship on such a project. I feel fortunate to have worked with Doug, Rada and the team at Eco Exteriors.
The metal roof has really given the home a transformative look. And the new gutters were really the cherry on top. My photographs attached don't truly show how transformative it is.
A great team and great company!
Rated 9.9/10 on HomeStars · BBB A+ Accredited · Google Guaranteed
Cedar Roofing — Frequently Asked Questions
For a typical 1,500–2,000 sq ft home in North Vancouver, cedar roof replacement generally ranges from $30,000 to $55,000 installed. That range reflects #1 Grade (Blue Label) Western Red Cedar, full tear-off, deck inspection, premium underlayment, and complete flashing systems. Simpler rooflines with fewer penetrations fall toward the lower end. Steep-slope properties with dormers, skylights, or complex valleys fall toward the higher end.
West Vancouver properties — particularly in the British Properties, Caulfeild, and Dundarave areas — often have larger footprints and more complex rooflines, pushing cedar replacement costs to $45,000–$80,000+. Homes with steep custom pitches, multiple levels, or extensive dormers can exceed that range. The structural complexity, access challenges, and premium material grade required for these properties are the primary cost drivers.
Cedar roofing in Metro Vancouver typically costs between $15–$25 per square foot installed, depending on the material grade, system type, and roof complexity. Cedar shakes run higher than shingles due to thicker material and more labour-intensive installation. Premium hand-split shakes on a complex steep-slope roof sit at the top of that range. This is higher than asphalt ($5–$9/sq ft) but comparable to standing seam metal and significantly less than green roof systems.
Yes — significantly. Asphalt shingle replacement in Vancouver averages $9,000–$15,000 for a typical home. A cedar roof on the same home runs $30,000–$55,000. The upfront cost difference is real. The value calculation shifts when you factor in lifespan: a well-maintained cedar roof lasts 30–40 years; asphalt in Vancouver’s wet climate typically needs replacement at 18–22 years. Over a 40-year period, asphalt may require two full replacements against cedar’s one — closing the cost gap considerably.
Cedar and metal roofing are broadly comparable in upfront cost for a residential North Shore installation — both typically land in the $20,000–$55,000 range depending on size and complexity. The key difference is long-term cost: metal (particularly standing seam) requires minimal maintenance and can last 50–70 years, while cedar requires consistent professional care every 2–3 years and may need replacement sooner without it. Cedar wins on natural aesthetics; metal wins on long-term cost of ownership.
The five biggest cost variables for cedar roofing in North Vancouver and West Vancouver are:
- Roof size — measured in squares (100 sq ft each); larger roofs mean more material and labour
- Roof pitch and complexity — steep slopes, multiple ridges, dormers, and skylights all increase labour hours significantly
- Cedar grade and type — #1 Grade hand-split shakes cost more than sawn shingles
- Decking condition — if moisture has damaged the plywood deck, replacement adds to the project cost
- Access and site conditions — hillside properties or homes with limited staging access require more setup time
Yes, particularly in North Vancouver and West Vancouver where buyers expect premium materials and natural aesthetics. A well-maintained cedar roof is a strong curb appeal asset and a known-quality upgrade that buyers factor into valuations — especially on forested properties where cedar fits architecturally. A failing or heavily mossy cedar roof, by contrast, is a negotiating liability. The condition matters as much as the material.
Cedar roof repairs in Vancouver typically range from $500–$2,500 for targeted work — replacing a section of missing shakes, re-flashing a chimney, or treating and treating a moss-affected area. Full replacement runs $30,000–$80,000+ depending on the property. If damage covers more than 25–30% of the roof surface, or if the underlying deck has moisture damage, replacement is almost always more cost-effective than continued repairs. We assess every roof and give an honest recommendation before quoting either.
Cedar roofing itself does not currently qualify for government rebates. However, if your cedar replacement is combined with an energy-efficiency upgrade — such as adding insulation, improved ventilation systems, or solar panel integration — portions of that project may qualify for BC Hydro or federal rebates of up to $10,000 depending on eligibility. We can walk you through what applies to your specific project during the consultation.
Budget approximately $500–$1,500 per year averaged across the maintenance cycle for a cedar roof in North Vancouver or West Vancouver. This accounts for biannual gutter cleaning, annual debris removal, and professional soft-wash treatment and preservative application every 2–3 years. Skipping this maintenance doesn’t save money — it accelerates decay and compresses a potential 35-year lifespan into 12–15 years, meaning an early full replacement becomes the real cost.
Ready to Invest in a Cedar Roof That Lasts? Contact Us Today!
Cedar done right is one of the most beautiful and durable roofing investments a North Shore homeowner can make. Cedar done wrong becomes expensive, fast.
Eco Exteriors has spent 18 years on the North Shore learning exactly what this climate demands. Our cedar roofing installations are built to perform in Vancouver’s rain, maintain their character through decades of coastal weather, and give your home the premium presence it deserves.
We offer free, no-obligation cedar roof estimates for homeowners in North Vancouver and West Vancouver.
There’s no pressure. No overselling. Just an honest assessment from a local team that’s been doing this since 2008.