Prices for cedar shake siding installation commonly fall within a broad range due to material grade, house size, and crew labor. This guide presents the cost, price ranges, and practical ways to budget for cedar shake siding installation, including per-square-foot pricing, regional differences, and key cost drivers.
Assumptions: Midwest labor rates, standard Western Red Cedar shakes, normal access, and a weather window suitable for exterior work.
| Item | Low | Average | High | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Installed price per sq ft | $6.50 | $10.00 | $18.00 | Includes materials, labor, fastening, and basic prep |
| Typical total for 1,500 sq ft house | $9,750 | $15,000 | $27,000 | Assumes standard 4/12 pitch, single-story to low two-story |
| Material cost per sq ft for cedar shakes | $2.00 | $3.50 | $6.00 | Shingle grade varies by density and appearance |
| Labor cost per sq ft | $3.50 | $6.00 | $12.00 | Crew hours and regional wage differences apply |
Major cost components in cedar shake siding installation
Typical total price combines material, labor, and prep work. The quote usually breaks into four to six line items: Materials, Labor, Hardware and Fasteners, Surface Prep, Protective Sheathing or Backer, and Cleanup/Disposal.
| Component | Low | Average | High | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Materials | $2.00 | $3.50 | $6.00 | Shakes, sealant, and moisture barriers |
| Labor | $3.50 | $6.00 | $12.00 | Carpenters and installers |
| Fasteners and hardware | $0.25 | $0.75 | $2.00 | Stainless or hot-dipped options |
| Prep and repair of substrate | $0.75 | $1.75 | $4.50 | Repair rot, weather barrier prep |
| Delivery/Haul-away | $0.50 | $1.50 | $3.50 | Distance dependent |
| Warranty and contingency | $0.25 | $0.75 | $2.00 | Typical workmanship warranty |
Variables that most affect cedar shake siding price
Size, pitch, and complexity are top price drivers. The final quote changes with house height, roof complexity, and existing trim conditions. Thresholds: multi-story (two or more) adds 15–30%; textured or beveled shakes add 10–25% over standard stock.
- Size and square footage: cost scales with wall area and exposure length.
- Roof pitch and access: steeper roofs require more safety measures and time.
- Material grade and finish: premium cedar vs standard grade changes unit price.
- Site conditions: tight spaces, landscaping, and access chokepoints raise prep and disposal costs.
Ways to reduce cedar shake price without sacrificing quality
Focus on scope control and material choices. Adjusting the scope—such as partial replacement, reusing existing trim, or prioritizing only the most visible elevations—can reduce cost. Assumptions: project avoids full house wrap replacement and uses mid-range cedar shakes.
- Bundle work: schedule siding, painting, and sealant together to save labor calls.
- Material choice: select standard thickness and texture rather than premium hand-split shakes.
- Prep efficiency: repair damaged substrate before installation to avoid rework later.
- Seasonal timing: prices can be lower in non-peak exterior seasons with flexible scheduling.
Labor rates shift by region and market. Coastal markets and high-demand metro areas show higher averages than rural zones. Assumptions: typical metro vs rural wage disparity ranges 10–40% depending on city.
- Northeast and West Coast: higher rates, $11–$18 per sq ft installed.
- Midwest: mid-range, $9–$14 per sq ft installed.
- South and Plains: often closer to $8–$12 per sq ft installed.
Typical per-square-foot pricing for cedar shake siding
Expect a spread that reflects grade, thickness, and labor region. Per-sq-ft figures help budget across different wall areas. Assumptions: standard exposure and no major structural repair.
| Scenario | Low | Average | High | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Stock cedar shakes, 5/8″ thick | $6.50 | $10.00 | $14.00 | Includes basic prep |
| Premium grade, hand-split shakes | $9.00 | $13.50 | $18.00 | Higher aesthetic value |
| Two-story home with complex roof | $8.50 | $12.50 | $19.00 | Extra safety and ladder time |
Labor hours depend on crew size and wall layout. Larger crews speed up installation but raise crew costs. Assumptions: standard 3-person crew for a 1,500 sq ft home; 2 weeks on-site typical in mild climates.
- Crew of 2 per shift: slower pace but lower labor cost per hour.
- Crew of 3–4: faster completion, higher total labor cost but potential overall savings.
- Weather windows: rain or freeze delays extend project duration and cost.
Additional services can shift the total price. Include coating, sealant, or stain, plus any required gutter or trim work. Assumptions: basic water-repellent treatment at project start; no ongoing maintenance package.
- Sealant or stain every 3–5 years to protect cedar against moisture.
- Gutter cleaning and minor trim repairs may be bundled.
- Repair or replacement of damaged shakes during project adds cost.