Why Are Higher Grades of Cedar Shingles Hard to Find in Massachusetts?
The current shortage of higher grades of cedar shingles in Massachusetts has left many homeowners puzzled and wondering if this is a temporary supply chain issue or a more long-term issue linked to the diminishing availability of old-growth cedar trees.
Understanding the Current Demand and Supply Challenges
Beyond the current temporary supply chain disruptions, humans are increasingly draining a finite planet by way of overconsumption. This is evident as we observe a decline in the quality of our resources and products, coupled with rising costs.
The demand for high-quality cedar shingles is a reflection of this broader trend. Cedar shingles that resist rot traditionally came from old-growth trees, which are now scarce. In places like British Columbia (B.C.), many people salvaged stumps from logging over 100 years ago, and these old shingles have proven to last remarkably well.
Factors Contributing to the Current Shortage
Very few old-growth trees are currently harvested as most are now protected within designated forest reserves. Contemporary Western Red Cedar trees, which are younger, grow rapidly but lack the decay resistance characteristic of older growths. This means that most modern cedar roofs are expected to last for only around ten years, highlighting the urgency to find a solution to this problem.
The situation is compounded by a softwood lumber shortage in states like Massachusetts. The demand for lumber materials has increased, while the supply and delivery times from mills have extended due to higher production demands. This shortage is not unique to Massachusetts; similar issues are being experienced across the country and beyond.
The Impact of Recent Events
The deadly wildfires in the Pacific Northwest in the summer of 2021 have contributed to tighter supplies and higher demand for lumber. These wildfires burned an additional one million acres compared to the same period in 2020. The result is that there is more demand for cedar shingles, making it harder to find them.
As an example, I recently re-sided a portion of my house in 2021 using No. 1 red cedar 18-inch random width shingles. The local lumber yard reported that these shingles cost 100% more than the previous year. Factors such as increased demand, high transportation costs, labor shortages, and fuel prices have all contributed to the current price volatility in wood products.
Alternative Solutions and Current Market Conditions
Given the constraints, some homeowners and builders are turning to alternative solutions. For instance, one homeowner in Arizona who attempted to source cedar shingles or other materials found it impossible. They ultimately settled on fiberboard type shakes, which while visually acceptable, are not the preferred choice for gables. This underscores the challenges faced by many in finding the best quality materials.
The shortage is also driven by the fact that many cedar-producing states experienced high COVID-19 rates this year, leading to continued disruptions in the supply chain. Therefore, any expectations of a rapid improvement in pricing and availability should be tempered.
Conclusion
The current shortage of higher-quality cedar shingles in Massachusetts is a complex issue with multiple contributing factors. While some might point to a temporary supply chain issue, the broader context of resource overconsumption and environmental constraints suggests that this could also be indicative of a more long-term trend. As consumers and industry players, we must work towards sustainable solutions that preserve our natural resources for future generations.