What are the standard lengths of wood shakes or shingles?

The standard lengths of wood shakes or shingles are generally 16 inches, 18 inches, and 24 inches. These dimensions are commonly used in construction due to their versatility and ease of installation, as they allow for a proper overlap while also providing adequate coverage against weather elements. The 16-inch length is a standard that works well for typical roofing applications, while the addition of 18 and 24 inches provides options for achieving different aesthetic appearances and performance attributes based on the pitch of the roof and desired exposure. This standardization helps simplify the installation process and ensures consistency across construction projects.

Other lengths mentioned, such as 12 inches, 20 inches, 21 inches, or 28 inches, are less frequently used and may not conform to commonly accepted industry practices. Therefore, the selection of 16, 18, and 24 inches for wood shakes or shingles is widely recognized as the standard in building applications.