Hi Patty,

These are real cedar shingles. I believe they are "striated"(which gives them more texture.

The best way to finish these are to hand dip them in a Cabot's semisolid wood stain to get the variation. Many colors are available and I always recommend trying a few before deciding. Real shingles are the only way I know of to get this modeled look. Also keep in mind real wood will continue to grey out and more so in direct sun than in shade. I would recommend retreating about every 8-10 yrs. About the same as you would a painted house depending on location.

Hope this helps.

Danny

Wow super fast and helpful reply. Thanks!