When homeowners want the natural beauty of cedar shake without the constant headaches of maintenance, pests, rot, and weather damage, DaVinci composite shakes have become one of the best solutions in the industry.

Recently, DaVinci Roofscapes published a project profile featuring a Cornerstone Restoration installation that showcased the true strength of synthetic shake roofing — especially its resistance to squirrels and other wildlife.

This real-world project highlights why more Illinois homeowners are switching from traditional cedar to composite roofing systems that look incredible and perform even better.

“This DaVinci synthetic shake roof resists squirrel damage and other wildlife issues that destroy traditional cedar.”

🪵 The Problem With Traditional Cedar Shake in Illinois

Cedar roofs are undeniably beautiful — but Illinois weather is unforgiving. Homeowners with natural cedar shake often deal with:

• 🐿️ Squirrel and animal damage

• 🌧️ Water absorption leading to rot or mold

• ❄️ Freeze/thaw cracking in winter

• 🌬️ Wind uplift on aging shingles

• 🌧️ Premature aging & constant maintenance

Snow loads, humidity, heavy storms, Midwest temperature swings, and wildlife break down cedar fast — often in less than half its “promised” lifespan.

DaVinci synthetic shakes were created specifically to solve these problems.

🧱 Why DaVinci Composite Shakes Are a Game-Changer

DaVinci Roofscapes manufactures synthetic shake roofing using:

• Virgin resins

• UV stabilizers

• Thermal stabilizers

• Fire-retardant additives

The result is a shingle that mimics the look of premium cedar shake — but with far superior performance.

✔ Class A Fire Rated

✔ Class 4 Impact Rated (ideal for hail storms)

✔ Extreme wind resistance

✔ No water absorption

✔ Resistant to mold, rot & decay

✔ Highly resistant to pests and squirrels

✔ Excellent performance in Illinois snow & ice

Composite shakes never split, warp, rot, or absorb water, and they hold up under the stress of Midwest winters.

🐿️ The “Squirrel-Resistant Roof” That Got National Attention

In the DaVinci project profile, the homeowner had struggled with persistent squirrel damage on their old roof. Chewed corners, missing shingle sections, costly repairs — the usual headaches.

After switching to DaVinci composite shakes installed by Cornerstone Restoration, the issues disappeared.

Why?

DaVinci’s engineered polymer is:

• Too dense and strong for squirrels to chew

• Not a natural food source or nesting material

• Unaffected by moisture, insects, or rot

In other words…squirrels simply give up.

This is a huge benefit for Illinois homeowners living near wooded areas — Barrington, Long Grove, Elgin, Crystal Lake, Naperville, Schaumburg, and similar suburbs.

🏠 Why Composite Shake Is Perfect for Illinois Homes

1. Freeze/Thaw Resistant

No swelling, warping, cracking, or splitting.

2. Weather-Proof Durability

Handles snow, ice, hail, and storms with ease.

3. Low Maintenance

No staining, sealing, or constant repairs.

4. Pest Resistant

Squirrels and other animals don’t damage it.

5. Lifetime-Level Longevity

DaVinci roofs often last 40–50+ years.

6. Incredible Curb Appeal

Composite shakes look identical to natural cedar — and keep their color.

🛠️ Why Installation Matters — and Why Homeowners Choose Cornerstone

A high-performance roof only performs as well as the contractor installing it.

Cornerstone Restoration follows all DaVinci manufacturer guidelines, including:

• Proper underlayment

• Correct fastening patterns

• Flashing and valley metal installation

• Adequate attic ventilation

• Ice & water shield placement

• Clean, structurally sound decking

We treat every DaVinci roof as a long-term investment — because that’s exactly what it is.

Our team works across Illinois and the surrounding region, installing:

• DaVinci Multi-Width Shake

• DaVinci Select Shake

• DaVinci Single-Width Shake

• DaVinci Slate and Bellaforté Slate

Whether you want the rustic shake look or a high-end slate aesthetic, we install it the right way.

🧩 Is DaVinci Composite Shake Right for You?

You may want to consider DaVinci if:

• You’ve had squirrel or animal issues

• You want a cedar look without the upkeep

• Your roof takes a beating from snow or wind

• You need a long-term, premium solution

• You plan to stay in your home for many years

• You want to increase home value and curb appeal

• You’re replacing an old cedar shake roof

Composite roofs are also excellent for insurance-driven replacements after storms.

🏡 Final Thoughts: Beauty + Strength + Peace of Mind

The DaVinci article featuring Cornerstone Restoration highlights what we already know:

Composite shakes deliver the beauty homeowners want and the performance Illinois weather demands.

If you’re considering a cedar shake replacement — or you want a roof that solves squirrel, snow, and maintenance issues permanently — DaVinci composite shakes are an incredible option.

📞 Want a DaVinci Roof Consultation?

Cornerstone Restoration is one of the leading DaVinci installers in Illinois.

👉 Call us at (847) 885-0097

👉 or schedule online at https://www.restorewithcornerstone.com/davinci-roofscapes-roofing

We’ll evaluate your current roof, explain DaVinci options, and help you determine whether a composite roof is the right fit for your home.