Prices for timber shiplap cladding vary by wood species, thickness, and installation scope. This guide outlines typical cost ranges in USD and explains what drives the price, so buyers can budget accurately.
| Item | Low | Average | High | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Material (new softwood, standard grade) | $2.50 | $4.50 | $7.50 | Per linear foot; boards 4-6 inches wide |
| Labor for installation | $8.00 | $12.00 | $20.00 | Per sq ft installed |
| Finish and sealing | $1.00 | $2.00 | $4.00 | Includes primer or sealant |
| Removal and disposal | $0.50 | $1.50 | $3.50 | Per sq ft of old siding |
| Delivery/hauling | $0.25 | $0.75 | $1.50 | Per linear foot |
What buyers usually pay for timber shiplap cladding
Typical total price ranges for a standard 1,000 sq ft project run from $6,000 to $16,000, depending on wood species, profile, and labor rates. Assumptions: Western region, standard grade pine or spruce, 4-1/2 inch boards, no specialty milling.
Average per-square-foot costs commonly fall between $6.50 and $12.50 for material and installation combined. Assumptions: 1,000 sq ft, mid-range boards, basic straight runs, single-story applies.
Major price components in timber shiplap quoting
| Component | Low | Average | High | Comment |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Materials | $2.50/sq ft | $4.50/sq ft | $7.50/sq ft | Board grade, moisture content |
| Labor | $8.00/sq ft | $12.00/sq ft | $20.00/sq ft | Removal, installation, nailing, cutting |
| Finishing | $1.00/sq ft | $2.00/sq ft | $4.00/sq ft | Primer, stain, sealant |
| Delivery | $0.25/lin ft | $0.75/lin ft | $1.50/lin ft | Distance from mill to site |
| Disposal | $0.50/sq ft | $1.50/sq ft | $3.50/sq ft | Old siding or waste |
| Waste/Offcuts | $0.10/sq ft | $0.40/sq ft | $1.00/sq ft | Scrap material |
Key drivers that shift the final timber shiplap price
Board thickness and profile significantly affect material costs; thicker boards and more intricate profiles raise per-foot pricing. Assumptions: 4/4.5 inch profile vs 6 inch, kiln-dried stock.
Moisture content and acclimation adds time and potential waste; drier stock costs more upfront but reduces shrinkage risk. Assumptions: 8–12% moisture tolerance, acclimation in dry climate.
Site access and weather can extend labor hours; steep roofs or tight spaces may require specialized equipment. Assumptions: Single-story, accessible eaves, temperate climate.
Variables that most influence quotes for shiplap siding
Project scope and area is the biggest driver; increasing area from 500 to 2,000 sq ft can shift price nonlinearly due to trim, joints, and waste. Assumptions: Exterior wall area, straight runs, no complex curves.
Region and labor market affects hourly rates by as much as 20–40% between rural and coastal markets. Assumptions: Midwest vs West Coast.
Practical ways to cut timber shiplap costs without compromising results
Choose standard boards and avoid premium species reduces material cost per sq ft. Assumptions: Pine or spruce vs hardwoods.
Limit scope of high-end finishes such as multiple coats or specialty stains. Assumptions: One-coat or standard two-coat finish.
Plan for bulk delivery and schedule mid-season to reduce delivery fees and labor overtime. Assumptions: Bulk purchase, non-urgent timelines.
Regional pricing patterns for timber shiplap across the U.S.
West Coast regions generally show higher material costs due to transportation and demand, often raising the low-to-high range by 15–25%. Assumptions: Coastal markets, timber sourced from local mills.
Southern markets may offer cheaper labor, similar material costs but with occasional longer lead times due to supply. Assumptions: Non-coastal mills, higher humidity considerations.
Labor considerations and typical timelines
Average installation time for 1,000 sq ft of straight runs is about 2–4 days for a small crew, plus finish time. Assumptions: 2-person crew, standard prep.
Crew size and hourly rates commonly range from 2–4 tradespeople with rates of $40–$70 per hour each. Assumptions: Residential exterior, moderate complexity.
Example quotes: realistic scenarios with specs
- Scenario A: 600 sq ft, pine shiplap, 4-1/2 inch boards, standard finish, single-story home. Material $3.75/sq ft, Labor $11.00/sq ft, Finish $1.75/sq ft. Total range $6,000–$8,500.
- Scenario B: 1,200 sq ft, spruce, 5-1/2 inch boards, two-coat stain, multi-story home. Material $4.50/sq ft, Labor $13.50/sq ft, Finish $2.25/sq ft. Total range $18,500–$25,000.
- Scenario C: 2,000 sq ft, premium softwood, 6 inch boards, solid color sealant, exposed soffits. Material $6.00/sq ft, Labor $15.00/sq ft, Finish $3.00/sq ft. Total range $40,000–$60,000.
