Cedar wood siding cost varies by type, grade, and scope. This article breaks down the cedar siding price so buyers can plan a realistic budget and compare quotes. Understand typical total prices, per-square-foot ranges, and the main drivers behind any quote in the current market.
Important: This guide covers common Cedar siding projects, including installation, material grade, and regional labor differences that influence cost.
| Item | Low | Average | High | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Material (cypress alternative price shown when cedar unavailable) | $2.50/sq ft | $4.25/sq ft | $6.50/sq ft | Solid cedar siding, primed or unprimed |
| Labor (installation) | $4.00/sq ft | $6.50/sq ft | $9.50/sq ft | Includes removal of old siding in some cases |
| Solid vs engineered cedar alternatives | $2.00/sq ft | $3.75/sq ft | $5.25/sq ft | Engineered products generally cheaper |
| Preparatory work (insulation, flashing) | $1.25/sq ft | $2.25/sq ft | $3.75/sq ft | Site conditions affect need |
| Paint/finish (optional) | $0.60/sq ft | $1.25/sq ft | $2.00/sq ft | Primer and two coats typical |
| Delivery | $0.25/sq ft | $0.75/sq ft | $1.25/sq ft | Distance from mill to site matters |
| Permits/inspections | $100 | $400 | $1,000 | Urban vs rural varies |
| Waste disposal | $50 | $150 | $300 | Old siding disposal included in some bids |
Cedar Siding Cost by Type and Grade
Prices differ by cedar type, profile, and grade. The most common options are clear vertical grain boards and standard knotty boards. Expect a typical total range for a standard 1,500-square-foot home with medium-grade cedar siding installed to be roughly $9,000 to $23,000, with per-square-foot pricing from $4 to $15 depending on profile and finish. Assumptions: single-story to mid-size two-story home, standard access, mid-range plywood sheathing, no major exterior repairs.
Major Cost Components in a Cedar Siding Project
The quote for cedar siding breaks into several core parts. The table below shows typical cost drivers and realistic ranges for a mid-sized home. Material choices heavily influence the bottom line, followed by labor hours and site prep.
| Cost Component | Low Range | Average Range | High Range | What Impacts It |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Materials (siding boards) | $2.50/sq ft | $4.25/sq ft | $6.50/sq ft | Grade, profile, moisture content |
| Labor (installation) | $4.00/sq ft | $6.50/sq ft | $9.50/sq ft | Crew size, access, complexity |
| Preparation (removing old siding, flashing) | $1.25/sq ft | $2.25/sq ft | $3.75/sq ft | Condition of framing, moisture barrier |
| Finish (paint/stain, sealant) | $0.60/sq ft | $1.25/sq ft | $2.00/sq ft | Two coats typical, primer |
| Delivery | $0.25/sq ft | $0.75/sq ft | $1.25/sq ft | Distance from mill |
| Permits/inspections | $100 | $400 | $1,000 | Local rules vary |
| Waste disposal | $50 | $150 | $300 | Haul-away charges |
Why Size, Scope, and Profile Move the Cedar Siding Price
House size directly scales material and labor. A 1,000-square-foot facade costs far less than a 3,000-square-foot exterior, even with similar materials. Siding profile—such as bevel, clapboard, or shingle—also changes waste, cutting, and fastening time. Smaller homes with simple rectangular facades typically fall on the lower end of the price spectrum, while complex shapes push cost upward. Span and run length determine edge trimming and corner work, which adds to both material waste and labor time. Assumptions: standard three-coat finish schedule; no extensive structural repairs.
Regional Variations That Shift Cedar Siding Price
Geography shapes labor rates and material delivery. In the Midwest, cedar boards may run modestly lower, while coastal markets incur higher freight and skilled labor costs. A typical regional delta could be ±20% between markets with comparable house sizes. Expect higher totals in cities with tight labor supply and premium finishes, and lower totals in rural areas with broader material access. Assumptions: standard supply chains, typical commute times, normal weather windows.
Labor Time and Scheduling Impact on Final Cedar Siding Cost
Labor is the second-largest driver after material. An experienced crew can install roughly 0.5-1.0 sidings per hour per worker depending on profile and complexity. For a 1,500-square-foot facade, a typical crew might range 2-4 days of on-site work, with possible overtime in tight schedules. Delays due to weather or access can add 10-20% to labor costs. Assumptions: standard work week, no permits delay, steady supply of cedar boards.
Hidden Fees and Common Add-Ons in Cedar Siding Quotes
Budget-aware buyers should anticipate extra costs for flashing upgrades, pest barrier installation, and protective coatings. Delivery surcharges for remote locations and disposal fees for old siding are common. Always ask for a line item on disposal, delivery, and permit charges to avoid surprises. Assumptions: no structural cosmetic repairs; standard flashing materials; no expedited service.
Cost-Saving Tactics for Cedar Siding Projects
Smart budgeting comes from scope control and material choices. Consider choosing a lower-cost cedar grade that still meets climate resistance, or opting for a thinner profile with professional installation efficiency. Bundling tasks—like replacing fascia while re-coating decks—can reduce travel time for crews. Selective replacement of damaged boards instead of full-wall siding can cut costs significantly. Assumptions: normal access; no engineered wood alternates; ballpark 10-20% savings from bundled work.
Replacement vs New Installation: Budgeting Decisions
Replacing worn cedar siding may incur higher upfront costs but can improve energy performance and curb appeal. If the existing sheathing is sound, retrofit installation can reduce waste. A full replacement for a mid-sized home might land near the high end of ranges, whereas patch repairs and selective boarding stay toward the lower end. Decide based on current siding condition and long-term maintenance expectations. Assumptions: existing structure stable; no major moisture damage; typical climate exposure.
