Cedar shake roof cost varies by roof size, shake grade, installation method, and region. This article provides practical price ranges in USD, with per-square and per-square-foot figures, to help buyers estimate what a cedar shake roof project will cost and where the main price drivers lie.
Summary table after the introduction shows typical low, average, and high ranges, plus notes on assumptions and scope.
| Item | Low | Average | High | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Installed price per square (100 sq ft) | $650 | $900 | $1,800 | Includes materials and labor; regional labor differences apply |
| Installed price per sq ft | $6.50 | $9.00 | $18.00 | Shingle grade, underlayment, fasteners |
| Total project price (1,500 sq ft roof) | $9,750 | $13,500 | $27,000 | Assumes standard architectural style, 50-year cedar shakes |
| Labor portion | 40-60% | Labor varies by crew size and access | ||
| Material portion | 40-60% | Premium grades raise material cost |
Typical cedar shake roof cost by roof size and pitch
The overall price depends on roof footprint, complexity, and pitch. A simple 1,000–1,200 sq ft roof with standard pitch typically lands in the low-to-mid range, while large or steep-slope roofs push costs higher. Expect higher labor time for difficult access or complex cuts.
Assumptions: Midwest labor rates, standard 50-year cedar shakes, asphalt underlayment, basic flashing.
Material and labor mix for cedar shakes
Material costs cover shakes, underlayment, fasteners, and flashing. Labor covers removal of old roofing, carefully installing shakes, and final sealing. Material packages with premium shakes substantially raise the price per square.
Assumptions: 5/12 pitch, standard 15-year warranty on workmanship, no major repairs required.
Materials pricing per square foot and per square
Pricing can be expressed both per square (100 sq ft) and per sq ft. Typical ranges are $6.50–$9.00 per sq ft installed, equivalent to $650–$900 per square, with high-end shakes reaching $12–$18 per sq ft or $1,200–$1,800 per square. Per-square quotes simplify budgeting for larger homes.
Assumptions: Average climate, standard underlayment, no foam or radiant barrier upgrades.
Regional price variations you should expect
Prices vary by region due to labor costs, material availability, and weather exposure. The Southeast and Southwest may see higher underlayment and flashing costs, while the Midwest can be affected by accessibility. Regional delta can reach ±20% on installed price per square.
Assumptions: Typical market rates in 1–3 contractor bids, standard permitting where required.
Common upgrades that affect the cedar shake price
Upgrades such as synthetic underlayment, ice-and-water shield, upgraded flashing, thicker shakes, or longer warranty terms add to total costs. Premium shakes and thicker profiles increase both material and install time.
Assumptions: Standard single-story home, limited roof penetrations.
Permits, disposal, and other additional Fees
Some jurisdictions require building permits, inspection fees, and disposal of old materials. Include these small-but-not-insignificant costs in the overall estimate. Permits and disposal can add 5–15% to the project total.
Assumptions: Local rules require minimal inspections for roofing replacements.
Ways to curb cedar shake roof costs without sacrificing quality
Scoping the project to avoid unnecessary upgrades, choosing standard shakes, and scheduling during slower seasons can help. Bundling removal, disposal, and installation with the same contractor often lowers overall costs.
Assumptions: Single-story home, normal access, no major structural repairs needed.
Concrete price drivers: job size, system type, and access
Two primary drivers are roof area and slope. A steeper pitch or larger area raises labor hours and safety requirements. Each additional 200 sq ft can shift price by several hundred dollars per square.
Assumptions: Standard gable or hip roof geometry, no skylights or dormers.
Realistic example quotes to compare
Source price ranges from three local bids show variations and help buyers compare. Example: a 1,400 sq ft roof with standard shakes, underlayment, and flashing may range from $9,100 to $14,500. Get multiple quotes to verify regional pricing.