What term is used for roofing materials that are hand- or machine-split and less uniform?

The term used for roofing materials that are hand- or machine-split and typically exhibit a less uniform appearance is "shake." Shakes are made from wood, and their production involves splitting logs into pieces, which leads to variations in size and texture. This characteristic gives shakes a rustic and natural aesthetic, making them popular for certain architectural styles.

In contrast, other roofing materials listed such as tiles and shingles are generally manufactured to be more uniform in shape and size. For instance, tiles are often molded and created with a consistent appearance, which contributes to their streamlined installation process and predictable performance. Slate, while also a natural material, typically comes in flatter and more uniform tiles compared to shakes.

In summary, the defining feature of shakes is their handcrafted nature, resulting in irregularities that distinguish them from more uniform roofing options.