Homeowners typically pay a broad range for cedar shake siding replacement, driven by the shake type, removal of existing siding, and climate considerations. The cost depends on materials, labor, and any required permits or disposal fees. This article provides practical pricing in USD with clear low–average–high ranges and per-unit details to help readers estimate budgets accurately.
Summary Table
| Item | Low | Average | High | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cedar Shake Siding (materials) | $2.50/sq ft | $5.50/sq ft | $9.50/sq ft | Includes premium grades and kiln-dried stock |
| Installation & Labor | $4.00/sq ft | $9.00/sq ft | $15.00/sq ft | Varies by slope, complexity, and fastener type |
| Removal & Disposal | $1.50/sq ft | $3.50/sq ft | $6.00/sq ft | Old siding removal included in some bids |
| Permits & Inspections | $100 | $400 | $1,000 | Depends on local rules |
| Total Project Range | $9,000 | $18,000 | $32,000 | Assumes 1,000–2,000 sq ft of exterior coverage |
Overview Of Costs
Cost ranges for cedar shake siding replacement typically reflect three core factors: material grade and shake profile, labor intensity, and removal overhead. Contractors often present a per-square-foot price with a separate line item for removal if old siding is in place. The total project range is commonly influenced by house size, number of stories, and roofline complexity, with steeper pitches increasing install time and safety requirements.
Cost Breakdown
The following table shows typical cost components, with assumptions and example drivers that affect pricing.
| Component | Low | Average | High | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Materials | $2.50/sq ft | $5.50/sq ft | $9.50/sq ft | Factor: cedar grade, thickness, and exposure profile |
| Labor | $4.00/sq ft | $9.00/sq ft | $15.00/sq ft | Factor: crew size, slope, weather, and fastener type |
| Removal | $1.50/sq ft | $3.50/sq ft | $6.00/sq ft | Old siding disposal and debris handling |
| Permits | $100 | $400 | $1,000 | Local enforcement varies |
| Delivery/Storage | $0.50/sq ft | $1.25/sq ft | $2.50/sq ft | Material handling on-site |
| Warranty & Installation Extras | $0.50/sq ft | $1.50/sq ft | $3.00/sq ft | Labor guarantees and flashing upgrades |
| Taxes | $0 | $0 | Varies | Depends on jurisdiction |
What Drives Price
Material grade and shake profile are primary drivers. Premium cedar (tight knots, longer boards, smoother finish) costs more than standard stock. Assumptions: region, specs, labor hours.
Labor intensity hinges on house geometry: multiple corners, irregular rooflines, and steep slopes raise hours and crew size. For example, a two-story home with a 6:12 pitch increases installation time compared with a single-story, 4:12 roofline.
Removal and preparation significantly add to the total when existing siding must be stripped, mold or rot addressed, or inset windows and trim require delicate detailing. Contractors may charge by square foot or offer a bundled bid with removal.
Local codes and permits can influence final numbers, especially in cities with stricter wind, seismic, or fire-safety requirements. Budget buffers for permit fees and inspections are common.
Regional Price Differences
Prices vary by region due to material transport, local labor markets, and climate risk. For example, urban West Coast areas tend to show higher installation costs than rural Southeast markets, with typical regional deltas ranging from -10% to +25% relative to the national average. Contractors may adjust bids for coastal exposure, humidity, and required flashing upgrades.
Labor, Hours & Rates
Labor rates generally fall in the range of $4.00–$15.00 per sq ft, depending on crew expertise and local wage standards. Install time correlates with house size, pitch, and complexity. For a 1,500–2,000 sq ft home, typical labor hours may range from 60 to 180 hours, with crew sizes 2–4 workers common on medium-to-large projects.
Additional & Hidden Costs
Hidden costs may include mould remediation, extra flashing around openings, and window/door trim refinishing. Some bids exclude debris hauling, which can add $0.50–$2.50 per sq ft if handled separately. Unexpected rot or structural damage discovered mid-project can trigger change orders with new material and labor charges.
Real-World Pricing Examples
Three scenario cards illustrate typical outcomes with Cedar Shake Siding Replacement. Assumptions: region, standard 3/8″ cedar shakes, no major rot, average roofline. All prices are in USD and exclude sales tax.
Basic — 1,000 sq ft covered; standard cedar, minimal removal, single-story home. Materials: $2,500; Labor: $4,000; Removal: $1,500; Permits: $150; Total: $8,150; Per sq ft: $8.15.
Mid-Range — 1,400 sq ft; premium cedar, moderate removal, two-story home. Materials: $7,000; Labor: $9,000; Removal: $3,000; Permits: $300; Total: $19,300; Per sq ft: $13.79.
Premium — 2,200 sq ft; high-grade cedar, extensive removal, complex rooflines. Materials: $18,000; Labor: $14,000; Removal: $6,000; Permits: $800; Total: $38,800; Per sq ft: $17.64.
Assumptions: region, specs, labor hours.
Maintenance & Ownership Costs
Cedar siding requires periodic maintenance to sustain finish and prevent moisture intrusion. Expect re-staining or sealing every 3–7 years, with typical maintenance costs running around $0.50–$2.00 per sq ft per year if done professionally. Over a 5-year horizon, maintenance and minor touchups can add roughly $2,000–$6,000 depending on climate exposure and sun risk.
Pricing By Region
National pricing snapshots show modest regional variation once installation and material costs are accounted for. In the Northeast, higher labor rates may push averages toward the upper end of ranges, while the Midwest may present lower mid-range pricing. The West Coast often features elevated material and disposal fees due to stricter environmental handling requirements.regional deltas typically range from -15% to +20% from national averages, influenced by local demand and permit complexities.
Where The Money Goes
The main budget allocation concentrates on materials (cedar grade and shake profile) and labor (installation time and crew efficiency). Deeper price breaks usually occur when purchasing higher volume materials with bundled removal and finish work, but long lead times can offset savings. Planning ahead with a single contractor for the full scope can reduce change orders and hidden fees.
