Homeowners typically pay a few thousand dollars for roofing replacement, with the main cost drivers being materials, labor, roof size, and local labor rates. This guide compares synthetic cedar shake and asphalt shingle roofing on cost, price ranges, and value for money. It highlights key pricing considerations to help buyers estimate a project budget accurately.
| Item | Low | Average | High | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Material (synthetic cedar shake) | $3.50/sq ft | $6.50/sq ft | $9.50/sq ft | Includes high-quality PVC or composite shakes; 3/8″–1/2″ thickness |
| Material (asphalt shingle) | $1.50/sq ft | $3.50/sq ft | $6.00/sq ft | Architectural/dimensional shingles standard |
| Labor (installation) | $2.50–$4.50/sq ft | $3.50–$5.50/sq ft | $5.50+/sq ft | Includes tear-off, disposal, fastening, underlayment |
| Roof size (1000 sq ft example) | $3,500 | $7,000 | $14,000 | Scaled with system type |
| Permits & inspections | $150 | $450 | $1,000 | Local requirements vary |
| Delivery/Disposal | $300 | $700 | $1,400 | Debris removal and packaging |
| Warranty (material) | 1–5 yrs | 15–30 yrs | Lifetime options | Manufacturer varies |
| Total (1000 sq ft) | $6,800 | $16,700 | $30,800 | Assumes typical roof with pitch and access |
Overview Of Costs
Cost ranges for synthetic cedar shake roofing reflect material quality, installation complexity, and regional labor rates. Typical synthetic cedar shake systems cost more upfront than asphalt shingles but may offer longer warranties and enhanced curb appeal. For a 1,000-square-foot roof, total project ranges commonly fall around $6,800–$30,800, depending on the roof’s pitch, complexity, and local costs. Per-square-foot ranges help compare, with synthetic shakes often $6–$10+/sq ft installed and asphalt shingles around $3–$6+/sq ft installed. Assumptions: region, specs, labor hours.
Cost Breakdown
| Column | Materials | Labor | Equipment | Permits | Delivery/Disposal | Contingency |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Synthetic Cedar Shake | $3.50–$9.50/sq ft | $2.50–$5.50/sq ft | $0.50–$1.50/sq ft | $0–$1,000 | $0.30–$0.70/sq ft | 5–10% |
| Asphalt Shingle | $1.50–$6.00/sq ft | $2.50–$5.50/sq ft | $0.20–$0.60/sq ft | $0–$1,000 | $0.20–$0.50/sq ft | 5–12% |
Factors That Affect Price
Pitch and roof complexity are major drivers. Steeper roofs or those with multiple valleys require more labor and safety measures, raising costs for both materials and installation. Niche drivers such as long run lengths for synthetic shakes and the need for specialized underlayment can push prices higher. For asphalt, roof height, attic ventilation, and the presence of skylights or chimneys similarly influence labor time and disposal.
What Drives Price
Price is affected by material performance, installation time, and regional wage levels. Synthetic cedar shakes offer durability, color stability, and a wood-like appearance, but require careful alignment and closer inspection for flashing details. Asphalt shingles deliver fast installation and broad availability but vary in weight, thickness, and warranty terms. Key drivers include roof size in squares, required underlayment type, and whether tear-off is needed.
Regional Price Differences
Prices differ across the United States due to labor markets and material availability. In the Northeast, higher labor costs can push installed per-square-foot pricing toward the top of the range. The Midwest often features moderate costs with good contractor availability. The Southwest can see higher material transport charges for synthetic shakes and seasonal weather impacts on schedule. Regional deltas can be ±10–30% from national averages depending on local conditions.
Labor & Installation Time
Typical installation time scales with roof size and complexity. A 1,000 sq ft roof can take 2–4 days for asphalt shingles, while synthetic cedar shakes may require 3–5 days due to tighter nailing patterns and alignment. Labor intensity and crew expertise are meaningful cost levers, as crews experienced with synthetic materials may command higher rates yet finish faster with fewer callbacks. Formula: labor hours × hourly rate
Additional & Hidden Costs
Surprises often come from decking condition, flashing replacement, and ventilation work. Deck repair or replacement can add $1,000–$5,000 on top of a roof replacement. For synthetic shakes, extra underlayment or ice-and-water shield in cold regions may add $0.50–$1.50/sq ft. Asphalt projects may incur disposal fees and sealant costs if a full tear-off is not performed. Assumptions: region, thickness, deck condition.
Real-World Pricing Examples
Three scenario cards illustrate typical project outcomes.
Basic — 1,000 sq ft asphalt shingles, standard 3-tab, mid-range underlayment, basic venting. Specs: 1,000 sq ft, 5/12 pitch, no complex detailing. Labor: 2 workers, 2.5 days. Materials: asphalt $1.50–$3.50/sq ft; labor $2.50–$4.00/sq ft. Total: $6,000–$9,000.
Mid-Range — 1,000 sq ft architectural asphalt or synthetic cedar shakes with upgraded underlayment and better color options. Specs: 1,000 sq ft, 6/12 pitch, standard valleys. Labor: 3 workers, 3–4 days. Materials: asphalt $2.50–$4.50/sq ft; synthetic shakes $6.50–$9.50/sq ft. Total: $9,500–$16,500.
Premium — 1,000 sq ft synthetic cedar shake with premium underlayment, metal flashings, and warranty upgrades. Specs: 1,000 sq ft, 7/12 pitch, complex ridge lines. Labor: 3–4 workers, 4–6 days. Materials: synthetic shakes $8–$9.50/sq ft; underlayment $0.75–$1.25/sq ft. Total: $18,000–$30,000.
Assumptions: region, specs, labor hours.
Price By Region
Comparing three regional profiles helps set expectations. In urban coastal markets, synthetic shakes may be impacted by higher material costs and stricter code requirements, lifting totals by 10–20% over national averages. In suburban inland markets, asphalt shingles often achieve mid-range pricing with strong competition among installers. Rural areas tend to offer the lowest labor costs but may face higher delivery charges for freight-heavy materials. Overall, expect regional deltas of roughly ±10–25% depending on factors like pitch, deck condition, and permit fees.
Pricing FAQ
Q: Do synthetic cedar shakes cost more to install than asphalt shingles?
A: Yes, typically, due to material price and installation complexity, but long-term durability and maintenance can offset some upfront costs.
Q: Are there any rebates or incentives?
A: Some regions offer incentives for energy efficiency or fire-rated roofing; check local programs.
Q: How long do these roofs last?
A: Synthetic cedar shakes often carry 30–50 year warranties, while asphalt shingles commonly 20–30 years, with variations by product line and climate.
Q: Is there a break-even point between options?
A: Break-even depends on climate, maintenance, and resale value; synthetic shakes may recoup costs through curb appeal and longevity in some markets.
Assumptions: region, specs, labor hours.
