Buyers typically pay for lumber based on species, grade, dimensions, and delivery. The cost gap between Douglas Fir and Cedar reflects growth rate, durability, and finish needs, influencing both initial price and maintenance across projects.
| Item | Low | Average | High | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Douglas Fir lumber (common framing grade, by board price) | $1.80 | $2.60 | $3.60 | Typically cheaper than cedar; varies by dimension and region |
| Cedar lumber (Western red or aromatic cedar, by board price) | $3.00 | $4.50 | $7.00 | Higher due to rot resistance and aroma; regional species affect price |
| Finish / sealant (per gallon, exterior-grade) | $15 | $25 | $60 | Required for cedar to maintain appearance; fir may need less |
| Delivery (per mile or job) | $50 | $110 | $260 | Helps factor in distance from mill or supplier |
| Installation labor (per hour) | $25 | $40 | $70 | Woodworkers’ rate varies by region and project complexity |
Overview Of Costs
Cost contrasts reflect species properties: Douglas Fir often carries lower per-unit lumber costs, while Cedar commands a higher price due to durability and insect resistance. The main drivers include dimension, grade, treatment needs, finish requirements, and local market conditions. Assumptions: region, specs, labor hours.
Common framing and structural uses show a wide range: Fir can be priced around $1.30–$3.60 per board foot, Cedar often $3.50–$7.50 per board foot depending on species and finish. Per-project totals usually include delivery, labor, and optional coatings, shaping the final budget.
Cost Breakdown
In practice, a project’s price components include materials, labor, and potential extras. The table below illustrates typical allocations for Douglas Fir vs Cedar on a mid-size project like exterior framing and siding prep.
| Category | Douglas Fir (Low) | Douglas Fir (Avg) | Cedar (Low) | Cedar (Avg) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Materials | $1,000 | $2,000 | $1,800 | $3,000 | Includes lumber, fasteners, and basic seals |
| Labor | $800 | $1,600 | $1,100 | $2,200 | Includes cutting, assembly, and site prep |
| Permits | $0 | $150 | $0 | $180 | Depends on jurisdiction and project scope |
| Delivery/Disposal | $60 | $120 | $90 | $150 | Distance-based |
| Contingency | $100 | $200 | $120 | $250 | Unforeseen changes or defects |
| Taxes | $70 | $140 | $90 | $165 | State and local taxes vary |
Regional Price Differences
Regional variations can shift costs by 10–25% when comparing North, South, and West markets. For example, Cedar may be pricier in the Pacific Northwest due to knot density and species availability, while Fir pricing can be steadier across inland regions.
In Urban vs Suburban vs Rural areas, labor rates differ significantly, typically: Urban +15–25% vs Suburban +5–15% vs Rural -5–10%. The lumber supply chain and freight costs drive these deltas.
Labor & Installation Time
Labor costs depend on project length, complexity, and crew efficiency. Exterior framing with Cedar may require slower handling and more careful finishing, increasing hours by 10–25% relative to Fir for same dimensions. Shorter runs and standardized profiles reduce time and price.
Install time estimates for a typical small crew (2–3 workers) might be 8–16 hours for Fir, and 12–20 hours for Cedar, with hourly rates ranging from $25–$70 depending on region and contractor qualifications.
Real-World Pricing Examples
Three scenario cards illustrate typical outcomes for a hypothetical 1,200-board-foot project, including materials, labor, and common add-ons.
Basic: Douglas Fir framing package
Specs: #2 fir framing lumber, standard grades, minimal finish work. Labor: 8 hours. Materials: $1,200. Labor: $520. Per-unit: $2.20/bf. Total: about $1,820, plus delivery.
Mid-Range: Douglas Fir with simple cedar accents
Specs: Fir framing with cedar trim accents. Labor: 14 hours. Materials: $2,200. Labor: $910. Per-unit: $2.60/bf (fir) + $4.00/bf (cedar accents). Delivery: $120. Total: about $4,230.
Premium: Cedar siding and high-grade finish
Specs: Aromatic cedar siding, exterior sealant and primer. Labor: 20 hours. Materials: $3,000. Labor: $1,400. Per-unit: $3.50–$7.00/bf (cedar). Delivery: $150. Finish: $350. Total: about $6,900.
Assumptions: region, specs, labor hours.
What Drives Price
Species properties like rot resistance, density, and workability influence price. Cedar’s natural durability and aroma raise material costs by comparison to Douglas Fir. Finish requirements and long-term maintenance also affect total cost, especially with Cedar where periodic sealants are common.
Ways To Save
Budget tips include selecting standard dimensions, buying in bulk for project consistency, coordinating delivery with other lumber orders, and scheduling off-peak purchases when mills offer lower rates. Regional price swings can be mitigated by opting for locally available species with compatible performance.
