The cost to remove cedar shake siding depends on siding size, waste disposal, and labor. This article outlines the typical price ranges, main price drivers, and practical ways to reduce the total. Buyers should expect a combination of labor hours, debris handling, and permits to shape the final quote.
| Item | Low | Average | High | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Removal total (sq ft) | $1.50 | $3.50 | $6.50 | Includes labor and basic debris handling |
| Labor per hour | $40 | $60 | $90 | Varies by region and crew skill |
| Debris disposal | $0.50 | $1.50 | $3.00 | Per sq ft or per load |
| Permits/inspections | $0 | $150 | $600 | Depends on municipality |
| Total project (6,000 sq ft) | $9,000 | $24,000 | $45,000 | Assumes standard removal and disposal |
Typical Cedar Shake Siding Removal Costs by Job Size
Costs are driven by total square footage and access. For a 1,000–2,000 sq ft single-story home, expect roughly $3,000-$10,000. For 3,000–5,000 sq ft or two-story homes, estimates often range $12,000-$26,000, with higher-end projects hitting $30,000 or more if extensive repairs or replacement are planned. In all cases, labor hours per square foot decrease with crew efficiency, while disposal fees rise with debris volume. Assumptions: Midwest labor rates, standard debris containment, typical access.
| Scenario | Low | Average | High | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1,000–2,000 sq ft, single-story | $3,000 | $6,000 | $10,000 | Labor-heavy on older homes |
| 3,000–5,000 sq ft, two-story | $12,000 | $20,000 | $26,000 | Access and debris control affect cost |
| Regional variance (Northeast vs South) | $2,000-$6,000 | $6,000-$16,000 | $15,000-$40,000 | Labor and disposal taxes vary |
Major Cost Components for Cedar Shake Siding Removal
Understanding cost components helps compare quotes line-by-line. The typical breakdown includes Labor, Debris Disposal, and Permits. Materials are usually not a factor unless cedar is left for reuse. Labor covers tear-out, protection, and hauling to a disposal site, while disposal accounts for weight and load fees. Permits may apply in some jurisdictions and can add a few hundred to several hundred dollars depending on local rules. Assumptions: standard crew of 2-3 workers on a mid-sized home.
| Component | Low | Average | High | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Labor | $2,000 | $6,000 | $12,000 | Hours × rate |
| Disposal | $1,000 | $5,000 | $10,000 | Demolition debris and dumpster |
| Permits | $0 | $150 | $600 | Municipal requirement |
| Protection & prep | $200 | $1,000 | $2,000 | Dust barriers, tarps |
| Total | $3,200 | $12,150 | $24,600 | Typical ranges |
Labor Time and Crew Size for Cedar Shake Siding Removal
Labor hours scale with lineal feet and complexity. A typical crew is 2-3 workers; removal might take 1–2 days for a 1,500–2,500 sq ft single-story home, and 3–5 days for larger or two-story houses. Expect around 0.75–1.25 hours per 100 sq ft for lighter or accessible siding, and 1.5–2 hours per 100 sq ft for dense, weathered cedar. Assumptions: standard access, no structural repairs during removal.
Regional Price Differences for Cedar Shake Siding Removal
Location influences labor rate and disposal costs. Northern markets tend to be higher due to wage levels and local disposal fees, while rural or southern markets can be markedly lower. Typical regional spreads show a 10%–40% difference on similar projects. For a 2,000 sq ft job, expect roughly $6,000 in the Midwest versus $9,500 in the Northeast, before site-specific factors. Assumptions: suburban markets, standard waste hauling.
Material and Debris Disposal Costs per Square Foot
Disposal cost per square foot is a reliable quick check. Expect debris charges around $0.50-$1.50 per sq ft, depending on local dump fees and whether additional materials (nails, overlays) require special handling. If a dumpster is rented, daily rates plus a pickup fee apply. For 2,500 sq ft, debris disposal can range $1,250-$3,750. Assumptions: standard debris mix; single dumpster; no hazardous waste.
Permits and Inspections When Removing Cedar Siding
Permitting adds variability by city and county. Some jurisdictions waive permits for siding removal alone; others require a demolition or building permit with inspection. Typical permit fees run $100-$500, with plan review adding up to $200 in some areas. Total permitting often sits under 1%–3% of project cost in moderate markets and can be higher near major cities. Assumptions: standard residential permit process.
Cost-Saving Tactics for Cedar Shake Siding Removal
Control scope and timing to trim costs. Options include removing only damaged areas, bundling removal with exterior renovation, or choosing a contractor with a combined removal and weatherproofing package. Scheduling in non-peak seasons and obtaining multiple quotes helps compare prices. Reusing or selling reclaimed cedar boards can offset some expenses. Assumptions: standard cleanup and disposal included in quotes.
Optional Real-World Quote Scenarios by Size
Concrete examples help benchmark expectations. Scenario A: 1,200 sq ft single-story home, Midwest, standard access. Removal: $2,400-$4,200; Disposal: $1,000-$2,000; Permits: $0-$300; Total: $3,400-$6,500. Scenario B: 3,500 sq ft two-story home, Northeast, limited access. Removal: $7,000-$14,000; Disposal: $3,000-$6,000; Permits: $300-$600; Total: $10,300-$20,600. Scenario C: 2,800 sq ft ranch, South, bundled project with a repaint. Removal: $5,500-$9,500; Disposal: $2,000-$4,000; Permits: $0-$200; Total: $7,500-$13,700. Assumptions: standard nails and debris disposal included; local taxes vary.
Formula Notes and Quick Quotes
Use simple per-unit estimates for quick checks. Removal per sq ft typically ranges $1.50-$6.50, depending on access and condition. Add disposal at $0.50-$3.00 per sq ft and permits as a separate line item. A compact formula to approximate total: (Removal rate × total sq ft) + (Disposal rate × total sq ft) + Permits.
