Homeowners typically pay for cedar shake roof removal based on roof size, pitch, removal method, and disposal needs. The main cost drivers include labor, debris disposal, and potential decking repairs. This guide breaks down the price ranges to help builders and homeowners plan a budget and compare quotes.
| Item | Low | Average | High | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Removal only (per sq ft) | $1.50 | $2.50 | $4.00 | Includes old shingles stripped and hauled |
| Roof size (per square, 100 sq ft) | $150 | $250 | $420 | Assumes standard installation; excludes decking work |
| Decking repair (per sq ft) | $3 | $5 | $9 | Needed if rotten boards found |
| Disposal/Haul-away (ton) | $60 | $110 | $180 | Landfill or recycle fees may vary |
| Permits & inspections | $0 | $150 | $600 | Depends on local rules |
| Repairs & cleanup (crew hrs) | $200 | $500 | $1,200 | Includes waste removal and site prep |
| Contingency (10–15%) | $150 | $350 | $850 | Establishes budget for surprises |
Overview Of Costs
Cost ranges for cedar shake roof removal reflect roof size, pitch, and debris handling. Typical projects are quoted as a per-square removal rate plus possible decking repairs. The following section offers total project ranges and per-unit estimates with common assumptions: a standard two-story home, 6/12 to 8/12 pitch, and a complete tear-off with disposal included.
Assumptions: region, typical attic access, no hazardous material, no live utility work, and standard venting preserved. The per-square removal rate usually includes labor, debris hauling, and basic waste disposal; decking repairs are estimated separately if damage is found during removal.
Cost Breakdown
Removal, disposal, and site preparation drive the majority of the cost. The table below outlines a typical breakdown with a mix of total project costs and per-unit pricing. The “Materials” column captures reusable components; most cedar roof tear-offs are labor-intensive and rely on dumpster or trailer haul fees.
| Category | Low | Average | High |
|---|---|---|---|
| Materials | $0–$150 | $0–$300 | $0–$600 |
| Labor | $1.50/sq ft | $2.50/sq ft | $4.50/sq ft |
| Equipment | $50–$150 | $150–$400 | $400–$900 |
| Permits | $0 | $150 | $600 |
| Delivery/Disposal | $60/ton | $110/ton | $180/ton |
| Warranty | $0–$50 | $20–$100 | $100–$300 |
| Contingency | $150 | $350 | $850 |
Factors That Affect Price
Pitch and roof area are the largest price levers. A steeper roof, irregular shapes, or complex dormers increase labor time and safety requirements. Cedar shakes also vary by thickness and exposure; heavier shakes cost more to remove and haul. Two niche drivers to watch: roof size measured in squares (100 sq ft each) and pitch category (low, medium, high). Long runs of cedar shakes over decking in poor condition escalate decking replacement costs and disposal volume.
Other drivers include access constraints (scaffolding or ladders, street obstruction), existing attic ventilation, and the presence of debris like gutters or skylights that complicate removal. Regional labor rates and disposal fees can add substantial variation.
Ways To Save
Planning during the off-season can yield measurable savings. Booking multiple estimates, bundling with other exterior projects, and ensuring clear scope help avoid change orders. Consider staged removal if full tear-off isn’t required, and target pricing that includes disposal in the base rate to prevent surprise charges.
For cost containment, request a detailed breakdown with line items for labor hours, per-square rates, disposal, and any decking repairs. Confirm how many dumpster or roll-off days are included, and ask about alternate disposal options (local recycling centers). A written contract with a fixed price and clearly defined scope reduces the risk of budget overruns.
Regional Price Differences
Prices vary across the U.S. due to labor markets and disposal costs. A comparison of three regions shows notable deltas: Northeast tends to be higher due to labor rates and stricter permits; Southeast often offers lower disposal costs but higher moisture-related decking repairs; West Coast mixes higher labor with stringent waste handling. Typical ±10–20% regional differences apply to removal and disposal components, while labor rates can swing ±15–25% depending on city and contractor demand.
Labor & Installation Time
Time estimates influence total cost when crews bill by the hour or by the square. A standard removal for a 1,500–2,000 sq ft roof typically takes 1–3 days with two workers, depending on safety protocols and decking condition. Additional time arises from pitch, attic access limitations, and the need to patch damaged decking pre-installation of the new roofing system. A labor-hour formula can help: labor_hours × hourly_rate equals the labor cost, with a separate line item for any overtime or weekend work.
Additional & Hidden Costs
Hidden costs often surface at decking, permits, and cleanup. If the deck boards are rotten, expect decking repair or replacement. Gutter and fascia removal may be bundled or charged separately. Permit fees vary by jurisdiction and may be required for structural work or roof removal in some municipalities. Some contractors add a disposal surcharge or a fuel surcharge if hauling distances are long.
Real-World Pricing Examples
Three scenario cards illustrate typical quotes for cedar shake roof removal. Each assumes standard access, no hazardous materials, and abatement not required. All prices include disposal unless noted otherwise.
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Basic: 1,400 sq ft roof, 6/12 pitch, standard removal with dumpster on-site, no decking repair.
data-formula=”removal_hours × hourly_rate”>Removal: $2.20/sq ft, Dumpster: $120/day, 3 days, Total: approximately $3,100–$3,800. -
Mid-Range: 2,000 sq ft, 7/12 pitch, minor decking checks, minor repairs.
Removal: $2.50/sq ft, Disposal: $1,000, Deck repairs: $1,000–$2,000, Permits: $150–$300, Total: about $6,000–$8,500. -
Premium: 2,800 sq ft, multiple dormers, extensive decking work required, disposal at a private facility.
Removal: $3.50/sq ft, Decking: $3,000–$6,000, Permits/inspections: $350–$600, Total: $11,000–$17,000.
Assumptions: region, specs, labor hours.
