Cedar shingles price and cost per bundle vary by grade, thickness, and region. This guide uses current U.S. pricing to show typical total costs, per-bundle pricing, and how factors like labor and fasteners affect the bottom line. The cost data below references common 18-inch, 3- or 5-inch exposure bundles used in residential roofing.
Assumptions: Midwest or South labor rates, standard #1 grade Western red cedar, 7/16 inch thickness, 18-inch bundles, normal roof pitch, and typical delivery within 50 miles.
| Item | Low | Average | High | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cedar Shingle Bundle Price | $25 | $40 | $80 | Common 18″ bundles; varies by grade |
| Shingles per Bundle | 28-36 sq. ft | 28-32 sq. ft | 24-36 sq. ft | Exposure affects coverage |
| Coverage per Bundle (sq. ft) | 25-28 | 28 | 24-32 | Net coverage after waste |
| Labor for Installation per 100 sq. ft | $350 | $550 | $900 | Includes basic removal and nailers |
| Fasteners and Misc. Supplies | $40 | $60 | $100 | Nails, felt, starter strip |
Cost Breakdown by Bundle Size and Grade
Bundle price varies primarily by grade and thickness, with #2 common offering the lowest cost and clear grades at the top end. A typical 18-inch bundle ranges from $25 to $80, while premium clear or select grades can exceed $70 per bundle. Lower-grade bundles may have more knots and shorter exposure. Assumptions: 3/8–7/16 inch thickness, standard 18-inch length, typical North American cedar species.
Materials Component: Cedar Shingle Bundles versus Square Coverage
Understand how bundles translate to square footage to compare installed costs accurately. One standard square equals 100 square feet. Depending on exposure, a bundle covers roughly 25–28 square feet. For a 1,000 sq. ft. roof, you’ll need about 36–40 bundles, depending on waste and layout. Assumptions: 18-inch exposure, straight roof geometry, no extensive vents or skylights.
- Low range example: 36 bundles at $25–$40 each; materials subtotal about $900–$1,440.
- Average range example: 38 bundles at $34–$52 each; materials subtotal about $1,292–$1,976.
- High range example: 40 bundles at $60–$80 each; materials subtotal about $2,400–$3,200.
Labor and Installation: Hours, Rates, and Per Bundle Impact
Labor can double or more based on roof pitch, complexity, and attic access. Typical installation runs $4–$9 per sq. ft when including removal and underlayment. On a 1,000 sq. ft. roof, expect $4,000–$9,000 for labor. Per bundle, labor can be estimated by dividing total labor by bundles used. Assumptions: Midwest crew, standard two-person crew, 8–10 hours per 1,000 sq. ft. roof for basic install.
Regional Price Variations Across the United States
Prices shift by region due to labor markets and delivery distances. Pacific and Northeast markets tend to be higher, while the South and Mountain states may run lower. A typical delivered bundle price might be $28–$60 in high-cost regions, vs $25–$40 in mid-range markets. Assumptions: 50-mile delivery radius, standard van delivery charges applied in higher-cost zones.
Additional Costs: Underlayment, Nails, and Fasteners
Don’t overlook underlayment, starter strips, and corrosion-resistant nails. These add about 10%–20% to the materials cost and can swing price per bundle by a few dollars. A typical kit runs $60–$120 total for a 1,000 sq. ft. roof. Assumptions: Asphalt underlayment, 1.5–2 inch galvanized nails, standard starter strip.
Common Size and Profile Differences That Drive Price
Exposure and thickness determine coverage and waste. 3-inch exposure shingles cost less per square foot than 5-inch exposure because of higher bundle weight and sizing. Expect price spreads of about 10%–25% between 3″ and 5″ exposure profiles. Assumptions: Mixed knot content and standard AR (arbor-rated) finish.
Seasonal Pricing Effects and Availability
Weather, demand, and supply cycles influence both material and delivery costs. Spring and early fall often show more favorable pricing, while late summer storms or heavy demand can push prices up by 5%–15%. Lead times may extend by 1–2 weeks during peak periods. Assumptions: Non-emergency scheduling, typical contractor inventory turnover.
Budget Scenarios: Low, Typical, and High-End Projects
Provide a quick lane to plan around. A low-budget approach uses mid-grade bundles, minimal waste, and standard labor, totaling roughly $2,000–$4,500 for a 1,000 sq. ft. roof. A typical project sits around $4,500–$9,500, including mid-range bundles and average labor. A high-end install with premium bundles, thicker 5/8 inch material, and complex geometry can exceed $9,500–$16,000. Assumptions: Roof area 1,000 sq. ft., standard attic access, normal weather window.
| Scenario | Bundles | Materials | Labor | Total |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Low Budget | 36–38 | $900–$1,440 | $2,000–$3,000 | $2,900–$4,500 |
| Typical Project | 38–40 | $1,200–$1,900 | $3,000–$5,000 | $4,500–$9,500 |
| High-End Upgrade | 40–44 | $2,400–$3,200 | $4,500–$8,000 | $9,500–$16,000 |