Prices for cedar shakes vary by grade, thickness, and installation specifics, with main cost drivers including material quality, labor, and disposal. This guide provides cost ranges in USD and practical price drivers to help readers estimate a project budget accurately.
Intro note: Cedar shakes are priced by square footage, by bundle size, and by install complexity. Buyers should consider material grade, shake size, underlayment needs, and local labor rates when estimating total cost.
| Item | Low | Average | High | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cedar Shakes Materials | $1.80 | $4.50 | $7.50 | Per sq ft of installed material |
| Labor & Installation | $2.50 | $5.50 | $9.50 | Per sq ft; varies by pitch and access |
| Underlayment & Sheathing Prep | $0.20 | $0.75 | $2.00 | Per sq ft if needed |
| Nails & Fasteners | $0.15 | $0.50 | $1.20 | Az metal or stainless options |
| Disposal & Cleanup | $0.10 | $0.40 | $1.00 | Per sq ft |
| Total Installed Price | $4.05 | $11.15 | $21.70 | Per sq ft; see assumptions |
Overview Of Costs
Typical cost range for cedar shakes installed is commonly between 4 and 22 dollars per square foot, depending on shake size, grade, and labor rates. The total project range for a standard 1,500 sq ft roof often falls in the $6,000 to $33,000 band, with per-square-foot estimates aligning to the figures shown above. Assumptions include standard asphalt roof removal if needed, a typical two-person crew, and normal accessibility.
Cost Breakdown
Key cost components vary by project specifics and region. The table below uses a 1,500 sq ft roof as a common reference. Rates assume mid-grade shakes, standard 3:12 roof pitch, and typical single-story access.
| Category | Low | Average | High | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Materials | $2,700 | $6,750 | $11,250 | Shade, grade, thickness affect price; shakes sold by sq ft |
| Labor | $3,750 | $8,250 | $13,500 | Crew size, accessibility, and weather impact hours |
| Equipment & Tools | $120 | $500 | $1,200 | Ladders, plywood, nail guns, safety gear |
| Underlayment & Prep | $300 | $1,125 | $2,500 | Needed when existing roof decking requires work |
| Permits & Inspections | $50 | $300 | $1,000 | Jurisdiction dependent |
| Disposal | $100 | $450 | $1,000 | Roof debris removal |
What Drives Price
Material grade and shake size are major drivers, along with roof pitch and access. Higher-grade cedar reduces maintenance but increases upfront cost. Narrow shakes or longer runs raise material waste and labor time. Regionally, labor rates and disposal fees vary, creating noticeable price gaps. A steeper pitch or harder-to-reach areas may require more equipment and time, pushing costs toward the high end.
Cost Drivers
Regional differences affect both hourly wages and material availability. Local tree harvests influence cedar pricing, and climate can affect installation complexity. For example, urban markets may carry higher labor premiums than rural areas. Contractors may also charge for site preparation or additional safety measures in busy neighborhoods.
Ways To Save
Smart budgeting steps include selecting a mid-grade shake with standard thickness, optimizing square footage by aligning layout to minimize waste, and scheduling installations in off-peak seasons when crews are more available. Purchasing material bundles during promotions or through local mills can trim costs without sacrificing performance. Ensure proper underlayment is installed to prevent future water intrusion and overruns.
Regional Price Differences
Prices vary by location with distinct deltas in three broad markets. Urban markets often show higher labor and disposal costs, suburban areas trend toward mid-range pricing, and rural regions may offer lower labor rates but limited material options. Expect roughly a plus or minus 15 to 25 percent swing across these regions depending on access and waste management requirements.
Labor, Hours & Rates
Labor costs are a major portion of the total and scale with roof complexity. A two-person crew may complete typical installs faster but will still contribute substantially to the bill. Higher pitch, complicated valleys, or limited access can double installation time, elevating labor costs accordingly.
Additional & Hidden Costs
Hidden costs frequently appear as weather delays, waste handling, or extra underlayment reinforcement. If existing decking has moisture issues or requires repair, expect added materials and labor. Permit fees and inspection charges can also rise in jurisdictions with strict building codes.
Real-World Pricing Examples
Basic Scenario
Specs: 1,200 sq ft roof, standard shake, mid-range thickness, no major prep. Assumes access with one-story structure and typical weather. Assumptions: region, specs, labor hours.
Labor: 8–10 hours per 1000 sq ft, 2-person crew
Pricing: Material $2.20 per sq ft, Labor $4.50 per sq ft, Total $6.70 per sq ft; Total project $8,040
Mid-Range Scenario
Specs: 1,500 sq ft roof, standard to upper mid-grade shakes, some underlayment prep, modest pitch. Assumptions: region, specs, labor hours.
Labor: 9–11 hours per 1000 sq ft, two-person crew
Pricing: Material $3.20 per sq ft, Labor $5.80 per sq ft, Total $9.00 per sq ft; Total project $13,500
Premium Scenario
Specs: 1,800 sq ft roof, premium cedar shakes, thicker profile, extensive underlayment and design features. Assumptions: region, specs, labor hours.
Labor: 12–14 hours per 1000 sq ft, larger crew
Pricing: Material $5.00 per sq ft, Labor $7.50 per sq ft, Total $12.50 per sq ft; Total project $22,500