Cedar shake siding installation labor costs typically range from $2.50 to $6.50 per square foot, depending on board type, pitch, and access. Major cost drivers include crew size, job complexity, and regional wage differences. This article focuses on labor pricing, with clear low–average–high ranges and per-square-foot guidance.
| Item | Low | Average | High | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cedar Shake Siding Labor (installed) | $2.50/sq ft | $4.50/sq ft | $6.50/sq ft | Assumes standard 6/12 pitch, smooth surfaces, ladder access |
| Labor Hours (per 100 sq ft) | 6–8 hours | 8–12 hours | 12–18 hours | Varies with complexity and waste |
| Crew Size (typical) | 2 workers | 3 workers | 4 workers | Higher crew speeds reduce calendar time |
| Minimum Charge / Visit | $400–$600 | $600–$1,000 | $1,000–$1,600 | Smaller jobs may incur a base fee |
Overview Of Costs
Cost overview shows total project labor ranges along with per-unit details. A typical cedar shake install on a 1,000 sq ft exterior may span 8–14 days for a mid-size crew in standard conditions. Per-square-foot labor often dominates the total labor cost, while access and finish work add variability.
Cost Breakdown
Labor-driven cost components include crew wages, overtime premiums, and site setup. The table below focuses on labor-related elements; materials and other fees are separate.
| Component | Low | Average | High | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Labor | $2.50 | $4.50 | $6.50 | Per sq ft; assumes standard crew and conditions |
| Hours | 6–8/100 sq ft | 8–12/100 sq ft | 12–18/100 sq ft | Based on complexity |
| Overhead | $0.50 | $1.50 | $2.50 | Equipment, disposal, permits split |
| Permits | $0 | $0–$200 | $200–$600 | Depends on locality and scope |
| Waste & Cleanup | $0.25 | $0.75 | $1.50 | Includes debris removal |
What Drives Price
Pricing variables include the cedar shake thickness, exposure, and board profile (straight-cut vs hand-split). Additional drivers are roof pitch, wall height, eave complexity, and accessibility, all of which alter labor hours and risk. Labor rates vary by region and contractor experience.
Ways To Save
Cost-saving tips focus on planning, material choices, and scheduling. Choosing standard profile shakes, prepping surfaces, and aligning installation season with milder weather can reduce labor time. Bundling fascia, trim work, and finish coatings may lower overall labor per project.
Regional Price Differences
Regional differences affect labor costs. In the Northeast, expect higher hourly rates due to union or supplier costs. The Midwest often shows moderate rates, while the West and some Southern markets can vary with demand. Typical regional delta ranges from ±10% to ±25% depending on local labor markets and permits.
Labor, Hours & Rates
Labor-hour framework helps estimate project duration and budget. Labor costs scale with square footage, crew size, and job complexity. A 1,500 sq ft project might need a 3–4 person crew for 14–22 days, with total labor costs reflecting both wage rates and time on site. Plan for potential overtime in peak season.
Additional & Hidden Costs
Hidden fees can include scaffold rental, dumpster fees, material handling surcharges, and weather-related delays. Some contractors bill for trip charges if the site is far from their base. Always confirm whether cleanup and disposal are included in labor estimates.
Real-World Pricing Examples
Assumptions: region, specs, labor hours.
Basic — 1,000 sq ft, straight-cut shakes, 6/12 pitch, standard access, no special finishes. Labor: 8,000–9,500 hours? No, fix: 8–12 hours per 100 sq ft; Total labor: 8,000–12,000? That’s off. Correct: 1,000 sq ft at $2.50–$4.50 per sq ft equals $2,500–$4,500 labor, plus overhead and cleanup: total $3,000–$7,000.
Mid-Range — 1,200 sq ft, hand-split shakes, 8/12 pitch, moderate access. Labor: $3.50–$5.50 per sq ft; Total labor: $4,200–$6,600; Overhead and cleanup add 15–25%. Estimated total: $4,800–$8,900.
Premium — 1,800 sq ft, advanced profiles, custom detailing, high pitch, limited access. Labor: $5.00–$6.50 per sq ft; Total labor: $9,000–$11,700; Include permit and disposal surcharges. Estimated total: $10,500–$15,500.