Putting up cedar shakes is a job that requires skill and precision. It involves taking thin pieces of cedar wood and nailing them to the sides of a building in order to create a decorative and protective covering. The cedar shakes are usually treated with a preservative to protect them from the elements and to ensure they last for many years. This type of job is often done by professional carpenters or roofers, but can also be done by a homeowner with the right tools and knowledge.