Replacing cedar shake siding is a major exterior project with costs driven by material quality, house size, and labor needs. This guide outlines typical price ranges and the main drivers behind cedar shake replacement pricing, helping readers estimate budget and compare bids with confidence.
| Item | Low | Average | High | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Materials | $3,000 | $7,000 | $15,000 | Includes cedar shakes, underlayment, flashing, and primer/finish if painting. |
| Labor | $4,500 | $9,000 | $18,000 | Assumes a crew for 2–4 workers over 4–12 days depending on surface area. |
| Equipment | $300 | $1,500 | $3,500 | Scaffolding, ladders, and disposal gear. |
| Permits | $0 | $500 | $2,000 | Varies by city; some jurisdictions require permits for exterior work. |
| Delivery/Disposal | $200 | $1,000 | $2,500 | Waste handling for cedar debris and packaging. |
| Warranty | $0 | $600 | $2,000 | Labor + material warranties may be bundled or separate. |
| Overhead & Contingency | $400 | $1,500 | $4,000 | Typically 5–15% of project costs. |
| Taxes | $200 | $1,000 | $2,500 | Depends on local Sales Tax and project scope. |
Assumptions: region, specs, labor hours.
Overview Of Costs
Cedar shake siding replacement generally runs from about $8,000 to $22,000 for typical homes, with per-square-foot installed prices ranging roughly from $9 to $20. The total depends on house size, shake profile (thick versus thin shakes), exposure, and surface condition. Price range reflects cedar quality, underlayment, flashing, and finish choices.
For a standard 1,800–2,000 square foot residence, expectations fall near the mid-range of $12,000 to $18,000 if the job includes removal of old siding and basic finish work. If the home has complex exterior, tall walls, or requires extensive repairs to sheathing, prices shift upward quickly.
Key per-unit ranges: installed cedar shakes often run $5–$8 per square foot for materials (premium shakes higher) plus $4–$12 per square foot for labor, depending on complexity and regional labor rates.
Cost Breakdown
The following table presents a closer view of typical cost components for cedar shake replacement. The estimates assume standard single-story or two-story homes with standard eave lines; complex rooflines or tall walls add to labor and equipment costs.
| Column | Low | Average | High |
|---|---|---|---|
| Materials | $3,000 | $7,000 | $15,000 |
| Labor | $4,500 | $9,000 | $18,000 |
| Equipment | $300 | $1,500 | $3,500 |
| Permits | $0 | $500 | $2,000 |
| Delivery/Disposal | $200 | $1,000 | $2,500 |
| Warranty | $0 | $600 | $2,000 |
| Overhead & Contingency | $400 | $1,500 | $4,000 |
| Taxes | $200 | $1,000 | $2,500 |
Cost Drivers
Several factors most influence cedar shake replacement pricing. Material quality and shake profile (hand-split vs. factory-cut, grade, thickness) directly affect costs. The house size and exterior surface area determine the scale of labor and scaffolding needs. Roof features like pitch and overhangs impact installation time and safety requirements. Finally, existing sheathing condition can require structural repairs, driving additional material and labor costs.
Labor, Time & Crew Costs
Labor usually dominates the budget, with crews charging hourly rates that vary by region and expertise. A typical crew time frame: 2–4 workers over 4–12 days for an average home. On-site time increases with roof complexity, ornate trim, and need for painting or staining after installation. Labor hours × hourly rate roughly captures the core labor cost, and delays due to weather or access issues add to the total.
Regional Price Differences
Costs vary by region due to labor costs, material availability, and permitting fees. In the Northeast, higher labor rates can add 10–20% to project totals compared with the South or Midwest. Coastal areas may see upcharges tied to material transport and exposure to salt air. Rural markets may offer lower prices but with longer lead times. Expect regional deltas of ±10–20% on typical bids, depending on local conditions and contractor competition.
Additional & Hidden Costs
Some projects incur extras not included in base quotes. If existing siding reveals water damage or rotten sheathing, expect additional repairs. Weather-related delays, scaffold rental beyond standard setups, and disposal quotas for cedar debris can add 5–15% to the final bill. Shielding and clean-up costs may appear as separate line items on the bid. Perimeter gutters and downspouts sometimes require realignment after siding replacement.
Real-World Pricing Examples
Three scenario cards help illustrate typical outcomes. All examples assume standard two-story homes, mid-grade cedar shakes, and no major structural repairs.
Basic – 1,800 sq ft home, standard shakes, minimal prep, no painting after install: 60–80 hours of labor, $4,000–$6,000 materials, total around $9,000–$12,000.
Mid-Range – 2,000 sq ft home, shakes with protective underlayment, minor window/trim work, some painting: 90–120 hours labor, $7,000–$10,000 materials, total around $15,000–$20,000.
Premium – 2,500 sq ft home, premium hand-split shakes, full wrap, extensive trim work, and color coating: 120–180 hours labor, $12,000–$20,000 materials, total around $28,000–$40,000.
Assumptions: region, specs, labor hours.
What Drives Price: Pricing Variables
Beyond size, several variables define final bids. The seam exposure pattern of shakes, the need for new flashing and moisture barrier, and whether a finish coat is included all change cost. If a contractor recommends replacing damaged sheathing or repairing rotten trim, the quote increases correspondingly. Seasonal demand, supply chain for cedar, and the availability of skilled carpenters also influence pricing.
Ways To Save
Several strategies can trim cedar shake replacement costs without sacrificing quality. Consider choosing a lower grade but durable cedar or a less dense shake profile to reduce material cost. Scheduling work in off-peak seasons may yield bids 5–15% lower, and combining exterior projects (paint, stain, or gutter work) with siding replacement can reduce labor setup costs per task. Ensure clear, itemized quotes to compare exact components and avoid surprise fees. Obtain multiple bids and verify warranties.