When budgeting cedar siding, buyers typically pay by the square foot with additional costs for installation, prep, and finishes. The cost per square foot for cedar siding varies by grade, profile, and regional labor rates, so understanding the price per square foot and the total project scope helps prevent sticker shock.
For budgeting clarity, the keyword Cedar Siding Cost Per Square Foot appears here to align with common search intent and to help readers compare price ranges directly within the article.
| Item | Low | Average | High | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Siding Material (cedar boards) | $2.50 | $4.50 | $7.50 | Includes select pine-free cedar boards; nominal grade differences. |
| Installed Price Per Sq Ft | $6.00 | $9.50 | $14.50 | Includes labor, nails, flashing, and basic finish. |
| Labor (per hour) | $45 | $75 | $110 | Varies by region and crew skill. |
| Prep and Repairs | $0.75 | $2.50 | $5.50 | Older structures may require more work. |
| Finish/Sealant | $0.50 | $1.75 | $3.50 | Stain or sealant typically applied after install. |
| Delivery/Disposal | $0.10 | $0.40 | $1.20 | Depends on access and waste handling. |
Cedar Siding Installed Price Per Square Foot
Most homeowners see a total installed price per square foot ranging from $6.00 to $14.50. The low end reflects select cedar boards, straightforward elevations, and minimal prep, while the high end applies to larger homes, intricate profiles, or limited access. Actual installed costs depend on board grade, profile (lap, tongue-and-groove, bevel), and local labor markets.
Typical projects assume 1,000 square feet of siding on a standard two-story home, with crew sizes of 2–3 workers for 3–5 days.
Key Cost Components in Cedar Siding Quotes
Quote breakouts reveal where money goes. The following table outlines common components and typical ranges you might see on a Cedar Siding Cost Per Square Foot quote. Understanding these parts helps buyers compare estimates fairly.
| Cost Component | Low | Average | High | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Materials | $2.50 | $4.50 | $7.50 | Board grade, profile, and coating affect price. |
| Labor | $2.50 | $4.50 | $6.50 | Includes installation, nail setting, and minor fitting. |
| Equipment | $0.50 | $1.00 | $2.00 | Scaffolding, lifts, and disposal gear. |
| Prep/Repairs | $0.75 | $2.50 | $5.50 | Removing old siding, rot repair, and surface prep. |
| Finish/Sealant | $0.50 | $1.75 | $3.50 | |
| Permits/Inspections | $0.10 | $0.50 | $2.00 | Depends on jurisdiction and project scope. |
How Square Footage and Grade Drive the Cedar Siding Price
Size and grade are primary price drivers. Larger homes typically receive volume discounts on materials but may incur higher overall labor due to extended install times. Higher grades (clear or select tight-knot cedar) cost more per board but can reduce finish work if installed precisely. For 1,200–1,600 sq ft projects, expect average installed costs around $7.50–$11.50 per sq ft, with higher-end finishes reaching $12–$14 per sq ft on elaborate elevations.
The following rule of thumb helps plan: lower grades favor lower per-sq-ft pricing but may require more maintenance later, while premium grades boost upfront price but can improve curb appeal and durability.
Regional Variations That Affect Cedar Siding Costs
Prices fluctuate by region due to timber availability, climate, and crew demand. In the Midwest, cedar may run toward the mid-range, while coastal markets often see higher premium costs for materials and labor. Expect low-to-average regional spreads of roughly 10–25%, with extremes above 30% in high-cost metro areas.
Assumptions: Midwest labor rates, standard heartwood cedar, normal access, and typical project scope.
Labor Considerations: Labor Hours and Crew Size for Cedar Siding
Labor is a major portion of cedar siding costs. A typical two-person crew handles 800–1,600 sq ft per week, depending on slope and complexity. Labor can account for 40–60% of the installed price, with higher-skill crews commanding the upper end of the hourly range.
For a 1,000 sq ft job, a two-person crew might require 3–5 days, translating to about 70–120 work hours at $75–$110 per hour depending on region.
Material Choices: Siding Grade, Texture, and Fasteners
Material choice directly affects price. Common cedar profiles include bevel, beaded, and clapboard lap, with textures from smooth to rough sawn. Resin-treated or rot-resistant backings add cost but improve longevity. High-grade cedar with tight knots and tight-grain texture will push per-sq-ft prices higher than standard grades.
Fasteners and flashing are essential for moisture management; premium cabinetry-grade fasteners and copper options add to material costs but can reduce maintenance needs over time.
Ways to Cut Cedar Siding Costs Without Compromising Quality
Budget-conscious decisions can lower cost without major quality loss. Options include selecting one profile across the whole project, combining lower-grade siding on less visible elevations, scheduling work in mild weather to reduce labor downtime, and pairing with a reliable, mid-range finish rather than premium sealants. Coordinating timing with a single contractor also minimizes trip charges and delivery fees.
Three Real-World Quote Scenarios for Cedar Siding Passages
Sample ranges help illustrate typical outcomes. Scenario A covers a 1,100 sq ft, standard profile with mid-grade cedar and basic stain. Scenario B upscales to premium profile and higher-grade cedar on a 1,500 sq ft home. Scenario C reflects regional variation on the West Coast with enhanced weatherproofing.
- Scenario A: Material $2.75–$4.75/sq ft; Installed $7.25–$9.50/sq ft; Total $9,975–$13,100
- Scenario B: Material $4.25–$6.50/sq ft; Installed $9.50–$12.50/sq ft; Total $13,200–$21,400
- Scenario C: Material $3.50–$5.50/sq ft; Installed $8.50–$12.00/sq ft; Total $14,500–$22,000
Assumptions: 1,100–1,500 sq ft projects, standard access, and typical weather windows.