While considering making shingle-style house, selection of shingles is every bit as important a decision as it sounds. Red cedar used to be the traditional choice for grand houses because it is a tough, long-lasting material. It is usually tight-grained and virtually saturated with tannic acid (a natural preservative).

White cedar is also used. Unfortunately, it is not as durable or long-lived as its red cousin. Red cedar is more expensive than white cedar, hardy red — often dipped in creosote to combat weather and decay — was a premium building material that accentuated the prestigious character of grand New England Shingle-style homes.

Regardless of color, cedar shingles do require initial treatment and some maintenance. Proper shingle coating and protecting stains are critical to the longevity and desired appearance of a house's exterior. Bleaching oil will protect shingles against decay, fungus and other coastal contamination, but also impart a much different visual effect than creosote. Contact with the elements will activate the bleach crystals in the oil, causing the red cedar shingles over a few months' time to take on a natural, light gray color similar to the weathered look of white cedar. While treated with bleaching oil, the red cedar shingles can weather naturally and evenly while enjoying protection against discoloring mildew.