Presidential Shake is a CertainTeed laminated asphalt shingle designed to imitate the thick, uneven look of hand-split cedar shakes.
If you want the rich, dimensional look of cedar shake without the maintenance, CertainTeed's Presidential Shake is one of the most beautiful asphalt shingles made. Here's what St. Louis homeowners should know.
Among asphalt shingles, CertainTeed's Presidential Shake sits near the top of the range — a luxury shingle designed to imitate the deep shadow lines and rugged texture of natural cedar shake. For homeowners in Chesterfield, Ladue, Wildwood, and Sunset Hills who want standout curb appeal without the upkeep of real wood, it's one of the most popular premium options we install. But it costs more than standard architectural shingles, so it's fair to ask whether it's worth it.
What Makes Presidential Shake Different
Standard architectural shingles are two layers of asphalt laminated together. Presidential Shake steps that up considerably: its thicker, more sculpted profile creates the dramatic dimensionality that reads as genuine wood shake from the street. That extra material and refinement is what gives it both its distinctive appearance and its durability. It's a true luxury-tier product, a step above the everyday Landmark line and aimed at homeowners for whom the look of the roof is a priority.
The Presidential Family of Styles
CertainTeed offers Presidential Shake in a few tiers, so you can match your budget and the look you want:
- Presidential Shake: the classic version, with the rich cedar-shake appearance and excellent durability
- Presidential Shake IR: an impact-resistant (Class 4) version — a smart choice in hail-prone Missouri that may earn insurance discounts
- Presidential Shake TL (Triple Laminate): the top of the line, with an even thicker, more dramatic three-layer profile for maximum dimension
Lifespan and Warranty
Presidential Shake is built to last well beyond a standard shingle — often in the 40-to-50-year range with proper installation and ventilation. Backed by CertainTeed's warranty coverage (strongest when installed by a certified contractor), it's a roof most homeowners will only buy once. That longevity is part of the value story: while the upfront cost is higher, the cost spread across its lifespan is competitive, and you get a premium appearance the entire time.
How Much Does It Cost?
As a luxury shingle, Presidential Shake carries a meaningful premium over standard architectural shingles — typically in the range of a premium roofing investment rather than a bargain roof, with the impact-resistant and triple-laminate versions costing more than the base version. The exact figure depends on your roof's size, pitch, and complexity. What you're paying for is a genuinely distinctive look, above-average durability, and the impact protection (in the IR version) that makes sense in our climate. For homeowners who plan to stay and care about curb appeal, many find it well worth the difference.
Is It the Right Choice for You?
Presidential Shake is worth it if curb appeal is important to you, you want the warmth of cedar shake without the rot, insects, and constant maintenance real wood demands, and you plan to enjoy the home for years. In our hail-prone region, we specifically point homeowners toward the impact-resistant Presidential Shake IR for the added protection and potential insurance savings. If you're on a tighter budget or the roof isn't highly visible, a standard architectural shingle will protect your home just as well for less. As a CertainTeed-certified installer, we can show you samples and give you an exact quote for your home. Call STLBRC at (636) 999-7663.
Does Presidential Shake need a deck check first?
Yes, because it is much heavier than standard architectural shingles. The installer should look at decking, rafters and any sagging before quoting. Older homes with plank decking or prior repairs may need extra deck work. Ask for that check and any deck replacement price to appear in writing.
Does it suit every roof shape?
It shows best on steeper, visible slopes where the shadow lines read from the street. Every shingle has a minimum slope set by the manufacturer. Low porches or additions below that slope need a different material. Ask how those transitions will look before you commit.
What should you compare across Presidential quotes?
Make sure each quote names the exact product and its matching accessories. Small wording differences can hide real cost differences.
- Exact product name and color
- Matching hip and ridge cap
- Ice and water barrier locations
- Underlayment brand and type
- Warranty tier and who registers it
- Price per sheet of replaced decking
When is it probably not the right buy?
It may not pay off if you plan to sell soon and nearby homes have standard roofs. It also makes little sense if the budget forces cuts to ventilation or flashing. If hail protection is your top goal, compare impact-rated options too. A premium look only helps when the system underneath is done right.
Can repairs match later?
Keep a spare bundle and your color name. That makes future repairs easier to blend.
Can you see it installed nearby?
Ask for addresses of local roofs with the product and color you like.
- Look at the roof from the street, not only up close
- View it in morning and afternoon light
- Ask the owner how long ago it was installed if you can
