Homemasters

By Sandy Standard Staff, Sandy Standard

In the Pacific Northwest, roofs do more than keep out rain. They stand between families and one of the region’s growing dangers: wildfire. As hotter summers and longer dry seasons stretch across Oregon, homeowners are paying closer attention to how roofing materials perform when embers drift through the trees. Four common choices –cedar shakes, tile, steel, and composite roofing – each tells a different story about beauty, durability, and fire resistance.

For generations, cedar shake roofs symbolized the Northwest itself. Their rough texture and deep brown tones blended naturally with evergreen forests and mountain cabins. In damp coastal climates, cedar performed well because the wood could breathe and shed moisture naturally. But when wildfire risk increased, cedar’s greatest weakness became obvious: it is wood. Dry cedar shakes can ignite from airborne embers long before flames ever reach the house. Older roofs are especially vulnerable, because cracks and gaps allow embers to lodge beneath the shakes. Some modern cedar products receive fire-retardant treatments, but those protections fade over time and require maintenance. Many communities in wildfire-prone areas now discourage or restrict untreated cedar roofing altogether.

Tile roofs, more common in warmer parts of the West, have gradually entered Northwest conversations because of their exceptional fire resistance. Clay and concrete tiles are noncombustible, meaning embers cannot easily ignite them. During a forest fire, that advantage can be life-saving. Tile also handles decades of weather with minimal deterioration. Yet the Northwest climate presents challenges. Heavy moss growth and repeated freeze-thaw cycles can damage improperly installed tile systems. Tile roofs are also extremely heavy, requiring strong structural support. While they offer impressive protection from fire, their cost and weight make them less practical for many forest homes tucked into steep hillsides or rural valleys.

Steel roofing has become increasingly popular across wildfire regions for good reason. A properly installed steel roof is highly resistant to ignition. Embers typically burn out before causing damage, and smooth metal surfaces prevent debris buildup that can fuel fires. Steel also handles the Northwest’s relentless rain and snow effectively, shedding moisture quickly and resisting rot. Modern steel roofing no longer resembles old agricultural barns. Manufacturers now create panels and shingles that mimic wood, slate, or traditional shakes. The main concerns are noise during heavy rain and higher upfront cost, though insulation and modern installation methods reduce much of the sound issue. In wildfire-prone regions, steel often represents one of the strongest combinations of longevity and protection.

Composite roofing attempts to balance appearance, affordability, and safety. These products are typically made from asphalt, fiberglass, recycled plastics, or engineered polymers. Many achieve high fire-resistance ratings while imitating cedar shakes or slate. Composite roofs are lighter than tile and usually less expensive than steel. They also resist moisture better than natural wood, an important advantage in the Northwest’s wet environment. However, quality varies widely between manufacturers. Lower-end composite products may curl, crack, or degrade faster under constant moisture and temperature changes. Homeowners must carefully evaluate warranties and fire ratings before choosing a product.

As wildfire seasons continue to intensify, roofing decisions in the Northwest have become more than aesthetic choices. Cedar shakes still evoke tradition and rustic charm, but fire danger has reduced their appeal. Tile delivers excellent resistance but comes with structural and financial demands. Steel offers durability and outstanding wildfire protection, while composite roofing provides a middle ground between cost, appearance, and safety. In the forests of the Northwest, the roof above a home may ultimately determine whether it survives the next fire season.

If you have questions about your existing roof, or would like information about a roof replacement or a new roof installation, contact HOMEMASTERS Located at 12900 SE Richey Road, Boring, OR 97009, (503) 766-3912 or through their website homemasters.com for a free estimate.