Prices for Western Red Cedar boards vary by size, grade, moisture content, and region. This article shares concrete price ranges in USD, including per-board and per-foot calculations, so buyers can budget accurately. Main cost drivers include board thickness, length, grade, and delivery considerations. Understanding the cost helps buyers compare quotes and plan replacements or new builds.
| Item | Low | Average | High | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Western Red Cedar board price per linear foot | $1.50 | $2.75 | $5.50 | 1×6 common stock to 1×8 finish boards |
| Board price per linear foot by grade | $1.60 | $3.00 | $5.75 | Primed or clear grades command higher ranges |
| Per-board price for typical 8 ft board | $12 | $22 | $40 | Size varies by thickness |
| Delivery fee (regional, ground level) | $0 | $60 | $200 | Distance affects cost |
| Installation labor (per hour) | $40 | $70 | $95 | Decking or siding projects |
| Waste/overage allowance | 5% | 10% | 15% | Job site waste and cutting |
Typical pricing by board size and grade
Prices are most meaningful when broken down by thickness and width. For Western Red Cedar, common sizes include 1×6, 1×8, and 2×6, used for decking, paneling, or trim. Low, average, and high ranges reflect stock quality from knotty to clear, and moisture state (kiln-dried vs air-dried).
Assumptions: Midwest or Pacific region, standard 92-112 pcf live timber, normal access to site, standard grade selection.
Cost components that shape a cedar board project
Understanding the quote requires listing major cost parts. A standard cedar board job splits into materials, labor, delivery, and disposal. The table below shows a representative breakdown for a small-to-midsize project such as decking or siding.
| Component | Low | Average | High | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Materials | $1.50–$3.00 per linear ft | $2.75 per linear ft | $5.50 per linear ft | Includes boards, fasteners, and spacers |
| Labor | $40–$60 per hour | $70 per hour | $95 per hour | Decking or trim installation |
| Delivery | $0–$60 | $40–$120 | $180–$200 | Distance-based |
| Waste/Disposal | 5% | 10% | 15% | Offcuts and packaging |
| Permits/Inspections | $0 | $50 | $300 | Varies by project type |
Key variables that swing the final price
Two dominant drivers are grade and region. Grade affects material cost directly: clear or minimal-knots cedar costs more than knotty stock. Region matters due to harvest proximity, transport distance, and local demand. Additionally, moisture state (kiln-dried vs green) shifts both price and install time, because green cedar often requires acclimation before finishing.
Assumptions: Project size 200–400 linear ft of boards, standard 5/4 or 1x thickness, mid-grade stock, normal access, and standard weather windows.
How to estimate per-unit and per-board pricing
For budgeting, convert between per-foot and per-board values. A typical 8 ft board at 1×6 size might range from $12 to $40 per board depending on grade and finish. If you need 300 linear ft of 1×8 boards, expect about $825–$2,250 in material costs alone, before delivery or labor. Per-foot estimates help scale quotes across lengths and project scopes.
Assumptions: Mixed stock, standard finish options, single delivery stop, no special-order species.
Regional price dynamics across U.S. markets
Coastline markets often show higher cedar prices due to shipping costs and demand, while inland timber regions may offer cheaper stock. A typical regional delta might be 5–15% higher on average coastal markets versus inland. In rural areas, bulk purchases can reduce per-foot pricing by 5–10% when volume thresholds are met. Regional context matters for overall budget.
Assumptions: Urban delivery routes, typical residential deck or siding projects.
Seasonal shifts and timing effects on cedar pricing
Demand spikes in spring and early summer align with outdoor builds, often elevating price by 5–12% compared with off-season months. Scheduling windows and supplier stock levels can influence quote acceptability. Buyers who plan ahead and lock in quotes in winter may see steadier pricing. Timing influences total project cost.
Assumptions: Standard supplier pricing, typical lead times, no peak-demand rush.
Cost-saving strategies for Western Red Cedar boards
Smart buyers can trim costs by choosing grade and moisture levels that balance appearance with budget. Substituting 1×6 for higher-width boards, or selecting knotty stock instead of clear stock for exterior trim, can lower material costs. Bundling delivery with other materials or scheduling midweek pickups also helps. Scope control reduces the overall price.
Assumptions: No premium finishes, standard fasteners, no custom milling.
Compare: cedar boards versus practical substitutes
When evaluating price, compare Western Red Cedar with alternative exterior woods like redwood, treated pine, or composite boards. Cedar often commands a mid-to-high price range per linear foot but offers natural rot resistance and a distinct look. Treated pine can cut material cost but may require more maintenance over time, while composites may have higher upfront costs but longer life. Substitution decisions affect long-term cost.
Assumptions: 24–40 linear ft projects, standard climate exposure, no code-mandated composites.
Three practical quote examples with details
Example A: 240 linear ft of 1×6 Western Red Cedar, knotty grade, air-dried stock, basic installation. Materials $1,600; Labor $2,100; Delivery $70; Total $3,770.
Example B: 320 linear ft of 1×8 clear grade, kiln-dried, deck railing included, mid-range labor. Materials $2,900; Labor $3,200; Delivery $95; Total $6,195.
Example C: 120 linear ft of 2×6 cedar boards for siding, knotty grade, premium finish, rush delivery. Materials $1,900; Labor $1,350; Delivery $140; Total $3,390.
Assumptions: Standard weather window, normal site access, no permits beyond basic building code compliance.
Maintenance, lifespan, and ownership cost considerations
Western Red Cedar boards typically offer 15–25 years of outdoor use with proper sealing and maintenance. Periodic re-sealing or staining affects ongoing costs, often in the range of $200–$600 every few years depending on climate and sun exposure. Factor these recurring costs into the five-year budget to avoid surprises. Long-term upkeep matters in total cost.
Assumptions: Outdoor exposure, typical homeowner maintenance schedule, standard sealants.
Summary of price drivers and practical checks
When budgeting, verify board size, grade, moisture state, and region as the top price drivers. Ask for line-by-line quotes detailing Materials, Labor, and Delivery to compare apples-to-apples. The strongest way to reduce price is to adjust scope modestly, select a practical grade, and schedule during the off-peak season.
Assumptions: Quotes from reputable lumberyards or woodwork contractors, standard project scope.
