Final answer:
Wood shakes and shingles should be used only on roofs with a minimum slope of 3:12 to ensure proper water drainage and minimize the risk of water infiltration.
Step-by-step explanation:
Wood shakes and shingles are traditional roofing materials that offer a natural look and have been used for centuries. However, to ensure proper water drainage and to minimize the risks of water infiltration, there is a minimum slope requirement for roofs on which wood shakes and shingles can be installed. Specifically, wood shakes and shingles should be used only on roofs with a slope of at least 3:12. This means for every 12 inches of horizontal distance, the roof should rise by at least 3 inches. A slope steeper than 3:12 helps prevent water from collecting on the shakes or shingles, which can lead to leaks and degradation of the roofing material over time.