Vinyl cedar shake siding is a type of vinyl siding that looks like wood. It is a PVC panel shaped to mimic hand-split cedar shingles, delivering the staggered, dimensional look of real wood without the upkeep.
Vinyl cedar shake siding is a type of vinyl siding that looks like wood. It is a PVC panel shaped to mimic hand-split cedar shingles, delivering the staggered, dimensional look of real wood without the upkeep.
Each panel features realistic natural cedar texture pressed in during manufacturing — so you get authentic character with none of the rot, staining, or curling of real cedar. It’s one of the most popular choices for Cape Cod, Craftsman, and coastal New England homes.
What Makes Vinyl Shakes That Look Like Wood Worth Considering
- Quick definition: Vinyl cedar shake siding uses PVC panels shaped to replicate hand-split cedar shingles. The staggered profile creates the same dimensional, layered look as real wood shakes.
- Authentic texture: Embossing recreates the rough-split surface of cedar during panel production. Portsmouth™ Shake & Shingles from Exterior Portfolio features realistic natural cedar texture across multiple profiles.
- Profile variety: Portsmouth™ comes in D5, D7, S7, Half Round, and Hand-Split profiles. Craftsman homes suit Hand-Split Shake best; Victorian-style homes gain charm with Half Rounds in the gables.
- Best uses: Siding that looks like wood shingles works beautifully as a full exterior or as an accent on gables, dormers, and entryways. It adds dimensional texture that flat clapboard profiles can’t replicate.
- Built to last: Unlike real cedar shakes, vinyl shakes won’t rot, curl, warp, or need staining. PVC is virtually impervious to water, making it a natural fit for New England’s wet and humid climate.
- No painting ever: Color is baked into each panel, and Portsmouth™ carries a Lifetime Limited Warranty. You’ll never budget for repainting — exterior painting costs up to $12,000 per project with real wood.
| Feature | Vinyl Shakes (Portsmouth™) | Real Cedar Shakes |
| Texture | Embossed natural cedar look | Natural variation |
| Rot resistance | Excellent — PVC won’t rot | Poor — requires treatment |
| Painting required | Never | Yes — frequent |
| Painting cost avoided | Up to $12,000 per repaint | Recurring expense |
| Profile options | D5, D7, S7, Half Round, Hand-Split | Limited by species |
| Warranty | Lifetime Limited Warranty | Varies |
| Best for | Full siding or accent applications | Historic preservation only |
Painting cost reflects verified national data. Individual project costs vary.
Which Vinyl Shake Profile Is Right for Your Home?
Top Recommendation: Coastal installs Exterior Portfolio® Portsmouth™ Shake & Shingles in multiple profiles and colors across MA, NH, and ME. Book a free estimate today to see samples in person.
Best for curb appeal: Hand-Split or D7 profiles for homeowners who want maximum texture and depth on a Cape Cod or Craftsman exterior. These profiles create the most dramatic shadow lines of any vinyl shake option.
Ideal for accent work: Half Round profiles for Victorian or cottage-style homes where gable or dormer accents add character without replacing the full exterior. Ask us how to layer profiles for a custom look.
Ready to add cedar shake character to your home without the upkeep? Coastal Windows & Exteriors is the #1 woman-owned exterior remodeling contractor in New England (Qualified Remodeler, 2023 & 2024), with 7,000+ installations across MA, NH, and ME. Established in 2011, woman-owned and family-run — not a franchise. Our 4.8-star Google rating with 1,000+ verified reviews reflects the craftsmanship we bring to every installation.
Request a free siding estimate from Coastal Windows & Exteriors.
Browse our complete siding FAQ guide from Coastal Windows & Exteriors.
Explore the Coastal Windows & Exteriors Siding Exterior Remodeling Home Improvement Help Center.
Last Updated: May 2026
Sources:
- The cost to paint the exterior of a house is up to $12,000. NerdWallet Save on Cost to Paint a House — cost guidance on exterior house painting based on Angi and HomeAdvisor data. (2026)
- The ROI of vinyl siding is 97%; the average cost of vinyl siding in the U.S. is $18,000. JLC Online Cost vs. Value 2025 — New England — regional cost-vs-value data for exterior siding replacement in New England. (2026)
- Portsmouth™ Shake & Shingles features realistic natural cedar texture, never needs painting, and carries a Lifetime Limited Warranty across D5, D7, S7, Half Round, and Hand-Split profiles. Royal Building Products Exterior Portfolio All Products Brochure — official product specifications, profiles, and warranty details for Portsmouth™ Shake & Shingles vinyl siding. (2023)
- PVC is virtually impervious to water; vinyl siding requires only mild soap and water for periodic cleaning; wood siding requires frequent painting, staining, and caulking. Royal Building Products Exterior Portfolio Low Maintenance Siding — official maintenance comparison data for Exterior Portfolio vinyl siding versus real wood. (2019)
- The popularity of vinyl and fiber cement siding is largely due to their affordability and versatility. Fixr Home Siding Statistics — survey data on homeowner siding material preferences and trends. (2024)
