Which of the following descriptions refers to wood shakes?

Wood shakes are a type of roofing material made from natural wood, commonly cedar, that is split into pieces. The defining characteristic of wood shakes is that they are hand split or taper split, which gives them a more rustic, textured appearance compared to machine-made alternatives. This splitting process creates variations in thickness and width, leading to a more organic look that many homeowners desire for aesthetic purposes.

The other descriptions do not accurately represent wood shakes. Shakes are not uniform in width since they’re handcrafted, making them distinctly different from engineered products that are manufactured to consistent specifications. Additionally, while wood can be treated or coated to enhance its durability, the notion of being stored in a water-resistant coating is not a defining feature of wood shakes themselves, which are typically left untreated to maintain their natural look and feel. Lastly, while some shakes can have smooth surfaces, the traditional type is often characterized by its rough finish due to the splitting process.