Traditional American homes typically have cedar shingles topping them
off. The sheer variety of cedar trees yield a wide range of cedar shakes and
shingles. This makes picking the right shingle siding quite challenging to the
uninitiated. Fortunately, a few hints can change all that.
One of the most popular choices for a cedar shingle is red cedar, which
is widely treasured for its exquisitely tight grain texture and exceptional
durability. Red cedar also weathers quite well and in time takes on a darker
look that gives added character to any home exterior. However, red cedar often performs
rather poorly when used as a siding material for houses along coastal regions,
as the salt-infused air can ruin the material in no time.
A suitable alternative
would be white cedar, which gives off a silvery hue. White cedar is the perfect
choice for those who want a crisp and clean look. This material also holds up
quite well against the weather, and ages into a pleasant beige regardless of
atmospheric conditions. The downside to white cedar is that it's not as tightly
grained as red and is, thus, less durable. As such, be sure to weigh your
options carefully, and choose only reputable suppliers and contractors.
Source: http://www.thisoldhouse.com/toh/article/0,,216680,00.html
