Complex Cedar Geometry: Turrets & Curved Roofs in Woods Hole

This project in Woods Hole showcases the most demanding aspect of exterior craftsmanship: working with compound curves. The images below document the installation of premium cedar on a distinctive round turret and a sweeping "eyebrow" roofline. These architectural features define the home's character but present significant challenges for water management and material fitting.

The Art of the "Eyebrow" Roof

The first image captures the intricate detailing of the curved roof edge (often called an eyebrow roof). Installing cedar here requires each shingle to be custom-cut to follow the exact radius of the curve. Notice the clean white trim band that separates the roof plane from the wall siding—this detail not only adds visual crispness but also serves as a critical drip edge to direct water away from the wall surface.

Beneath the shingles, you can see the HydroGap SA housewrap. This self-adhered, drainable barrier is essential for complex geometries where standard flashing is difficult to apply. It ensures that any moisture penetrating the outer layer has a clear path to drain out, protecting the structural sheathing of the turret.

Turret Siding: Creating a Seamless Cylinder

The second image reveals the full scale of the turret installation. Cladding a cylindrical tower with rectangular shingles creates a natural tendency for gaps to form at the horizontal joints. Our team overcomes this by tapering every course of shingles—making them slightly narrower at the top than the bottom. This technique allows the flat wood to conform to the round substrate without forcing or buckling.

The result is a smooth, continuous surface that looks almost like scales on a fish—a hallmark of high-quality cedar siding installation. The contrast between the warm, new cedar and the stone foundation below grounds the structure, while the white window trim provides a sharp, clean break that highlights the craftsmanship.

Why This Level of Detail Matters

In coastal environments like Woods Hole, "good enough" doesn't last. The complex curves seen here are prime targets for wind-driven rain. By combining precise shingle tapering with advanced weather barriers like HydroGap, we ensure that the home's unique beauty is matched by its resilience. This is the difference between a roof that simply covers a house and one that protects it for generations.