C buyers typically pay a broad range for cedar shingle siding, driven by wood grade, exposure, and installation method. This guide uses real-world pricing to show low, average, and high ranges so homeowners can budget effectively for cedar siding projects.
Assumptions: region, house size, shingle species (northern white cedar), underlayment, and labor hours.
| Item | Low | Average | High | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cedar Shingle Siding (materials only) | $3.50/sq ft | $5.50/sq ft | $8.50/sq ft | Installed area varies by wall area; 1,500 sq ft typical |
| Labor (installation) | $3.50/sq ft | $6.50/sq ft | $9.50/sq ft | Includes nailing, underlayment, and prep |
| Delivery/Disposal | $0.50/sq ft | $1.25/sq ft | $2.50/sq ft | Includes debris removal |
| Permits & Code Compliance | $100 | $450 | $1,000 | Varies by locality |
| Accessories & Fasteners | $0.25/sq ft | $0.60/sq ft | $1.20/sq ft | Stain, flashing, starter strips |
| Warranty & Maintenance Plan | $0.15/sq ft | $0.40/sq ft | $0.80/sq ft | Labor warranty included separately |
| Overhead & Profit | 10% | 15% | 20% | Contractor margin |
| Taxes | 0–8% | 6–9% | 7–10% | State/local variations |
Overview Of Costs
Total project ranges typically fall between $9,000 and $26,000 for a 1,500–2,000 sq ft home, depending on wall height, number of stories, and trim work. Per-unit costs for cedar shingle siding commonly run from $6.00 to $16.50 per square foot, including materials and labor, with higher endpoints reflecting premium grades or complex detailing.
Major influences include the shingle profile (3/8″ exposure vs. 5/8″), wood grade (appearance and density), underlayment choice, and the extent of surface preparation. Color treatments and sealers add roughly $0.50–$2.00 per sq ft if included in the project scope.
Cost Breakdown
Breakdown of typical costs helps buyers see where money goes in a cedar siding project. Using common assumptions (1,500–2,000 sq ft of exterior wall), the following table outlines best-fit ranges and the per‑unit context for each category.
| Category | Low | Average | High | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Materials | $5,250 | $9,250 | $26,250 | Includes cedar shingles, underlayment |
| Labor | $5,250 | $9,750 | $19,000 | Includes installation, nailing, flashing |
| Equipment | $300 | $900 | $2,000 | Ladders, scaffold, tools |
| Permits | $100 | $450 | $1,000 | Regional rules apply |
| Delivery/Disposal | $750 | $1,750 | $3,000 | Debris handling |
| Accessories | $375 | $900 | $2,400 | Start strips, flashing, fasteners |
| Warranty | $225 | $600 | $1,200 | Material + labor options |
| Overhead | $1,000 | $3,000 | $5,000 | Contractor margin |
| Contingency | $900 | $2,500 | $4,500 | Unforeseen fixes |
| Taxes | $1,200 | $2,300 | $4,500 | State/local variations |
data-formula=”labor_hours × hourly_rate”> Assumptions: project size, roofline complexity, and trim requirements can shift totals by ±20–30%.
What Drives Price
Material grade and exposure are primary drivers. Higher-grade cedar and greater exposure increase material costs and waste factor. Cedar shingle thickness and milling quality influence durability and price, with wider exposures typically costing more per square foot. A second major factor is roof and wall detailing; additional starter strips, corner boards, and flashings add complexity and price.
Edge finishes and surface prep also affect cost. If existing siding needs removal, repairs to sheathing, or moisture treatment, expect a higher bill. Seasonality and availability can push prices up in spring and summer when demand is strongest.
Ways To Save
Plan for long-term value by prioritizing quality underlayment and proper ventilation to extend life. This reduces later maintenance costs and potential repaints. A phased approach, where feasible, can lower immediate outlays by distributing work across seasons.
Shop for cedar with consistent grading and source control. Buying all components from a single supplier may earn a modest discount on materials and fasteners. Proper segmentation of scope—siding only, then trim and soffit—is another budget-friendly approach to manage cash flow.
Regional Price Differences
Prices vary by region due to labor markets and material sourcing. In the Northeast, expect higher delivery and moisture-control costs; the Midwest often shows mid-range pricing; the West may have elevated fastener and trucking costs. Regional deltas typically range ±15–25% from the national average depending on local conditions and supplier networks.
Labor & Installation Time
Labor cost hinges on wall height, complexity, and crew efficiency. A two-person crew may complete most 1,500–2,000 sq ft homes within 6–9 days, excluding weather delays. Hours and rates translate directly into total labor costs and vary by market; rough benchmarks are $40–$110 per hour per installer, with foremen commanding higher rates.
Real-World Pricing Examples
Basic scenario: 1,500 sq ft exterior with standard 5/8″ cedar shingles, basic underlayment, no heavy detailing. Materials $5,250; labor $7,500; delivery $1,000; permits $150; total around $13,900.
Mid-Range scenario: 1,750 sq ft with premium cedar, advanced underlayment, and modest trim work. Materials $9,000; labor $12,000; delivery $1,500; permits $300; total around $22,800. Assumptions: region, specs, labor hours.
Premium scenario: 2,000 sq ft with high-grade, wide exposure shingles, custom trim, flashing, and stain/sealant. Materials $18,000; labor $16,000; delivery $2,000; permits $600; total around $38,600. Assumptions: region, specs, labor hours.
Note: Costs shown are typical ranges for U.S. projects and are not quotes. Local bids reflect site-specific conditions such as chimney work, window cutouts, color treatment, and old siding removal.