Homeowners typically pay a broad range for cedar plank siding, depending on board quality, profile, and installation. The main cost drivers are material grade and size, surface treatment, labor hours, and local waste or disposal fees. Budget for maintenance over time, since cedar’s natural patina and potential finishing needs can affect long-term pricing.
Assumptions: region, specs, labor hours.
| Item | Low | Average | High | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Materials (cedar planks, fasteners, trim) | $2.50 / sq ft | $5.50 / sq ft | $9.00 / sq ft | Includes standard cedar boards, 1x or 2x trim, and rust-resistant fasteners. |
| Labor | $3.50 / sq ft | $7.50 / sq ft | $12.00 / sq ft | Assumes mid-grade crew, standard weather window, 8–12 hours per 1,000 sq ft. |
| Delivery/Disposal | $0.20 / sq ft | $0.50 / sq ft | $1.20 / sq ft | Includes loading, transport, and debris removal. |
| Permits & Codes | $100 | $400 | $1,000 | Varies by jurisdiction and project scope. |
| Finishes & Maintenance | $0.40 / sq ft | $1.50 / sq ft | $3.00 / sq ft | Sealant, stain, or paint; may extend life and reduce upfront maintenance later. |
Overview Of Costs
The typical project range for cedar plank siding on a standard single-family home runs from roughly $8,000 to $28,000, depending on home size, panel profile, and site conditions. A per-square-foot model commonly yields $4.50 to $10.50, with higher totals tied to premium boards, complex trim, or extensive restoration work. Cost summaries should consider material grade (clear, knotty, or joined boards), profile (channel, bevel, or shiplap), and the breadth of finishing work required.
Cost Breakdown
Note: The following table aggregates core inputs for cedar plank siding, blending total project ranges with per-unit pricing where applicable. Assumptions: region, cedar grade, and installation complexity.
| Category | Low | Average | High | Details |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Materials | $2.50 / sq ft | $5.50 / sq ft | $9.00 / sq ft | Includes cedar planks, trim, and fasteners; assume standard 5/4 or 1x boards. |
| Labor | $3.50 / sq ft | $7.50 / sq ft | $12.00 / sq ft | Crew rates vary by region; higher in urban markets. |
| Delivery/Disposal | $0.20 / sq ft | $0.50 / sq ft | $1.20 / sq ft | Includes hauling debris and off-site disposal fees. |
| Permits | $100 | $400 | $1,000 | Local permit costs and inspections may apply. |
| Finishing | $0.40 / sq ft | $1.50 / sq ft | $3.00 / sq ft | Stain, sealant, or topcoat required after install. |
Cost Drivers
Several factors push Cedar Plank Siding costs up or down. Board grade (clear vs. knotty) influences material price and appearance, while panel profile (shingle, channel, or bevel) affects labor time and waste. Cedar’s natural durability means fewer coatings are sometimes needed, but high-grade surfaces may require more precise cuts. Regional lumber availability and weather-related delays also drive variability.
Ways To Save
Strategies to reduce total outlay include selecting a simpler profile, opting for standard widths, and scheduling installation in off-peak seasons. Bulk ordering of cedar boards can lower per-unit costs, and choosing a reputable yet efficient installer helps contain labor charges. Planning around delivery windows and minimizing on-site waste can yield meaningful savings.
Regional Price Differences
Prices for cedar siding show notable differences by region. In the Northeast and Pacific Northwest, higher lumber costs can push prices toward the upper end of the range, while the Midwest and Southeast may offer more competitive rates due to supply chains and labor market conditions. Rural projects often enjoy lower labor costs but may incur higher delivery fees. Expect regional spreads of ±15–25% from the national averages when comparing quotes.
Labor, Hours & Rates
Labor rates typically range from $3.50 to $12 per square foot, with crews taking longer on complex elevations, tall walls, or intricate trim work. Installation time scales with home size, siding thickness, and exposure to weather. data-formula=”labor_hours × hourly_rate”> A standard 1,500 sq ft house may require roughly 150–220 labor hours depending on details, affecting total costs substantially.
Real-World Pricing Examples
Three scenario cards illustrate how specs drive cost. Assumptions: region, scope, and crew efficiency.
- Basic — 1,200 sq ft, knotty cedar, 4-1/2 inch boards, no extensive trim; 120–150 labor hours; total: $15,000–$22,000; $5.50–$9.00 / sq ft; minimal finishes.
- Mid-Range — 2,000 sq ft, heartwood cedar, 5/4 boards, modest trim; 180–230 labor hours; total: $28,000–$38,000; $7.00–$9.50 / sq ft; light stain or sealant.
- Premium — 2,500 sq ft, clear cedar, premium profile, extensive trim, custom joints; 240–320 labor hours; total: $45,000–$70,000; $9.00–$11.00 / sq ft; advanced finishes and warranties.
Maintenance & Ownership Costs
Wood siding requires periodic upkeep to preserve color and resistance against elements. Finishes typically wear within 5–10 years, prompting reapplication costs of $0.75–$2.50 per sq ft. Over a 5-year horizon, maintenance and occasional board replacement can add to total ownership costs, especially in high-moisture climates. Lifetime cost considerations should include potential refinishing cycles and eventual siding replacement.