Homeowners typically pay for siding by project type and area size, with cedar shakes and vinyl siding showing clear differences in material cost, installation, and upkeep. The price you see reflects material quality, labor rates, and regional availability. This article spells out cost ranges in USD, highlights major drivers, and helps buyers estimate total expense for cedar shakes versus vinyl siding.
| Item | Low | Average | High | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Material (cedar shakes, per sq ft) | $4.50 | $6.50 | $9.50 | Western red cedar common; rough-cut or smooth options vary |
| Material (vinyl siding, per sq ft) | $1.50 | $4.00 | $6.50 | Standard 6.5″ exposure; insulated options higher |
| Labor for installation (per sq ft) | $3.50 | $5.50 | $9.00 | Incl. removal of old siding in most cases |
| Total installed price per sq ft | $8.00 | $12.00 | $18.50 | Includes materials, labor, and disposal |
| Typical project size (residence, 2,000 sq ft exterior) | $16,000 | $24,000 | $37,000 | Assumes average trim and existing structure |
Assumptions: Midwest labor rates, standard materials, normal access, and a single-story home.
Material Cost Differences Between Cedar Shakes and Vinyl Siding
Material price per square foot drives the gap between cedar shakes and vinyl siding. Cedar shakes typically range from $4.50 to $9.50 per sq ft installed, driven by wood grade, thickness, and profile. Vinyl siding runs from $1.50 to $6.50 per sq ft, with insulated vinyl at the high end. For a 2,000 sq ft exterior, material differences alone can swing costs by roughly $6,000 to $18,000 in favor of vinyl, depending on options.
| Material | Low | Average | High | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cedar shakes (installed) | $4.50 | $6.50 | $9.50 | Grade, thickness, and weather treatment affect price |
| Vinyl siding (installed) | $1.50 | $4.00 | $6.50 | Insulation options raise costs |
Labor and Installation: What Adds to the Bill
Labor costs are a major driver after material choice. Cedar shakes require skilled carpentry, precise nailing patterns, and alignment work, often pushing installation to $3.50–$9.00 per sq ft. Vinyl siding is faster to install, typically $1.50–$4.00 per sq ft, but insulated vinyl can raise labor to $4.00–$6.50 per sq ft. For a 2,000 sq ft home, labor can add $3,500–$18,000 depending on siding type and complexity.
| Component | Low | Average | High | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cedar shakes labor | $3.50 | $5.50 | $9.00 | Prep and trim work extra |
| Vinyl labor | $1.50 | $4.00 | $6.50 | Faster install; moisture barriers vary |
Durability and Long-Term Costs: Maintenance Matters
Maintenance cycles influence long-term price. Cedar shakes require regular sealing, staining every 3–5 years, and eventual replacement of warped or split pieces, adding annualized costs around $0.50–$1.50 per sq ft for upkeep. Vinyl siding needs minimal upkeep, mainly occasional washing, with long-term costs dominated by paint and sealing for trim on cedar. Over a 20-year horizon, cedar can incur higher maintenance but may fetch a different resale appeal depending on market preference.
Regional Price Variations: How Location Impacts the Bill
Region shifts total project cost. In the Northeast and Pacific Northwest, cedar shakes may be pricier due to timber costs and shipping. Vinyl remains relatively stable, but insulation variants can push prices higher in hot climates where cooling efficiency matters. Expect total installed costs to be 10–20% higher for cedar shakes in timber-prize regions, while vinyl may vary less than 10% by region.
Energy Efficiency and Insulation Implications
System efficiency can affect long-term expenses. Vinyl siding with a rigid foam or insulated backing can improve R-values, reducing heating and cooling costs, which may offset higher initial cedar upkeep in some markets. Cedar shakes are natural insulators but may require proper sealing to maintain energy performance, especially in humid climates.
Resale Value And Aesthetic Considerations
Residential value can hinge on siding choice. Cedar shakes often appeal to buyers seeking a natural, rustic look, potentially supporting a higher premium in certain markets. Vinyl offers broad appeal, durability, and lower maintenance, which can translate to faster sales or fewer price concessions in regions with active rental or housing turnover.
Quote Example Scenarios: Realistic Budget Ranges
Scenario A: 2,000 sq ft cedar shakes replacement with standard grade cedar, rake moldings, and basic trim. Total range: $16,000–$28,000. Labor and materials contribute most of the variance, with weather exposure and pickup options affecting final numbers.
Scenario B: 2,000 sq ft vinyl siding with insulation and standard trim. Total range: $8,000–$14,000. Insulated vinyl adds about $2.00–$3.50 per sq ft on average.
| Scenario | Sq Ft | Material Cost | Labor | Total |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cedar shakes, standard | 2,000 | $9,000 | $7,000 | $16,000 |
| Vinyl with insulation | 2,000 | $6,000 | $6,000 | $12,000 |
Cost-Saving Moves: How to Lower the Cedar vs Vinyl Price Gap
Smart scope choices cut total expense. Consider swapping from premium cedar grades to mid-range or CP-rated boards, scheduling mid-season installation to avoid peak demand, and requesting a combined removal and disposal package to minimize trips. Opting for non-insulated vinyl instead of insulated variants can also reduce upfront costs without sacrificing appearance in many markets. Compare quotes with a focus on exact per-sq-ft rates and any required wrappings or moisture barriers.
Perimeter and Structural Considerations: Scope Details That Shift Cost
Size and layout influence pricing structure. Multi-story homes, steep roofs, or intricate trim increase labor hours and safety requirements. Cedar shakes on uneven facades or with complex trim can elevate costs by 15–25% versus flat, single-story surfaces. Vinyl installations with minimal trim adjustments typically stay closer to baseline estimates.
Warranty and Service: What to Expect and Budget For
Warranty coverage affects price stability. Cedar shakes often come with wood-warranty terms including rot and termite coverage, while vinyl siding warranties emphasize color fade resistance and impact durability. Expect longer-term warranties to add 2–5% to upfront costs, offset by reduced repair expenses over time.
