Prices for 1×6 Cedar Tongue and Groove vary by board grade, finish, and installation specifics. This article breaks down typical cost ranges in USD, with per-foot and per-square-foot considerations, to help buyers estimate the total price and compare quotes. The cost factors below cover material, labor, and common extras that influence total pricing.
| Item | Low | Average | High | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Material price per linear foot (unfaced, kiln-dried cedar) | $0.90 | $2.20 | $4.50 | Based on common 1×6 T&G rough boards |
| Installed price per square foot (labor plus material) | $4.50 | $6.50 | $9.50 | Assumes standard interior/exterior use and average access |
| Sealing/finish per square foot | $0.50 | $1.20 | $2.00 | Waterborne or oil-based sealers |
| Delivery charge | $25 | $60 | $120 | Depends on distance and supplier policy |
| Waste/overage allowance (per 100 sq ft) | $10 | $25 | $50 | Common planning margin |
| Finishing hardware (nails, staples, trim) | $20 | $60 | $120 | Assumes manufacturer-recommended fasteners |
| Labor rate ( carpenter) per hour | $40 | $60 | $90 | Regional variation applies |
Assumptions: Midwest labor rates, standard grade cedar, normal access, interior installation, 1×6 nominal boards finished on-site.
Typical Price Range for 1×6 Cedar Tongue and Groove
For bare 1×6 Cedar Tongue and Groove boards, expect a material price range of roughly $0.90 to $4.50 per linear foot. Installed costs, which include labor and basic finishing, generally run about $4.50 to $9.50 per square foot depending on locale, finish, and job scope. Prices reflect common sizes and standard installation. A small pantry ceiling or a simple wainscot run will fall on the lower end, while high-grade cedar with premium finish and intricate trimming will push toward the high end.
Major Cost Components in the Quote
Projects typically itemize four to six cost components that determine the total price. The following table shows typical ranges by component for a mid‑size interior install.
| Component | Low | Average | High | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Materials (cedar boards, solid T&G) | $0.90/ft | $2.20/ft | $4.50/ft | Includes standard grade Cedar; excludes exotic options |
| Labor | $40/hr | $60/hr | $90/hr | Crew size typically 2–3 workers |
| Delivery/Disposal | $25 | $60 | $120 | Distance and packaging affect cost |
| Finish/Sealing | $0.50/ft² | $1.20/ft² | $2.00/ft² | Oil or water-based sealant; number of coats varies |
| Fasteners and Trim | $20 | $60 | $120 | Includes nails, adhesive, and trim pieces |
| Overhead/Permits | $5% | $10% | $15% | Depends on contractor and location |
Variables That Strongly Affect the Final Quote
Two primary drivers often swing the price: room size and cedar grade. A 100 sq ft accent wall with basic grade cedar may land at the low end, while a 400 sq ft ceiling in premium clear cedar can push costs 30–50% higher. Other impactful factors include finish type (stain versus clear sealant) and access limitations (ladders, scaffolding, or overhead work).
Regional Price Variations Across the U.S.
Prices for 1×6 cedar T&G can vary by region due to labor costs and supply. In the Northeast and West Coast, installed price per square foot often sits at the higher end ($7.50–$9.50 per ft²), while the Southeast and Midwest tend to land around $5.50–$7.50 per ft². Prices assume standard material quality and mid-range labor availability.
Material Grades and Their Price Impact
Cedar tongue and groove comes in several grades. Clear or knot-free 1×6 T&G commands higher material costs, typically adding 20–40% over standard knotty grades. A knot-heavy grade may save 10–25% but can affect aesthetics and finishability. Grade choice directly correlates with both upfront materials and finishing needs.
Size Variations That Change the Cost
Length adjustments and board counts influence overall cost. A 8 ft board run creates more joints and potential waste than a 6 ft run, often increasing waste and labor time. For larger areas, consider batching cuts to reduce waste. Longer runs increase both material and labor costs per foot.
Delivery, Prep, and Install Prep Costs
Delivery charges depend on distance and whether pallets are needed. Prep work such as surface cleaning, moisture testing, or substrate repair adds extra labor time and costs. For finished spaces, additional masking and trim work can raise per-foot pricing by 0.50–1.50. Plan for modest prep costs alongside material and labor.
Ways to Reduce Your 1×6 Cedar Tongue and Groove Price
Smart cost-saving moves include selecting standard grade cedar, limiting finish coats, batching purchases, and coordinating a single installer visit for labor efficiency. Consider substituting a lighter sealant or using pre-finished plaid boards when feasible. Scope alignment and timing can cut both material waste and labor hours.
