Homeowners typically pay for cedar siding or Hardie board based on material quality, panel size, and labor. The cost difference hinges on board type, installation method, and regional pricing. The following figures reflect common U.S. pricing for siding replacement or new installation projects.
| Item | Low | Average | High | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Material per sq ft | $3.50 | $5.50 | $9.50 | Cedar listed as $3.50–$6.00; Hardie $5–$9 per sq ft |
| Labor per sq ft (installation) | $2.50 | $5.00 | $8.50 | Includes prep and fastening |
| Total installed per sq ft | $6.00 | $10.50 | $17.50 | Assumes standard 6″ exposure and weather barrier |
| Delivery/Disposal | $0.25 | $0.75 | $2.00 | Depends on distance and debris volume |
| Permits and inspections | $100 | $350 | $900 | Regional variance significant |
| Warranty consideration | $0 | $0.50 | $1.50 | Typical material warranty included |
Assumptions: Midwest labor rates, standard 6-inch exposure, typical single-story home, standard thickness siding, normal access.
Cedar Siding Material Costs by Square Foot
Material cost for cedar typically ranges from $3.50 to $6.00 per sq ft, depending on grade and thickness. Hardwoods for tongue-and-groove or premium clear grades push cedar toward the higher end. Cedar moisture treatment and pre-finish add $0.50–$1.50 per sq ft.
Cedar requires more maintenance over time, potentially affecting long-term cost despite a lower upfront price in some markets. Expect higher staining or sealing intervals in humid regions.
Hardie Board Material Costs by Square Foot
Hardie board costs tend to be in the $5.00 to $9.00 per sq ft range for material alone, with fiber cement panels offering durability and lower long-term repaint needs. Textured finishes and premium thicknesses can add $0.50–$1.50 per sq ft.
Labor for Hardie install is often comparable to cedar but can vary with adhesive or cutting requirements. Hardie may require specialized blades and dust control due to cement content.
Labor and Installation Charges for Siding Types
Labor per sq ft for cedar installations commonly falls in the $2.50–$5.00 range, while Hardie board installations run $3.00–$6.50 per sq ft depending on scope. Nailing method, trim work, and window/door casing impact totals.
Full installation on a 1,500 sq ft home typically adds $4,000–$12,000 in labor and prep. Permits, weather barriers, and flashing are often bundled into labor estimates.
Regional Variations That Affect Siding Prices
Coastal regions may see higher transport and moisture mitigation costs, while rural areas can present lower material access fees. Labor rates generally rise with urban markets or skilled trades shortages.
Climate and wind load requirements influence fastener types and labor time. Expect 5–15% regional delta on overall price.
Total Project Estimates for a Typical 1,500 sq ft Home
Cedar siding installed on 1,500 sq ft generally ranges from $9,000 to $28,000 total, depending on grade, finish, and labor. Hardie board installations typically run $11,000 to $32,000 for the same scope.
High-end finishes, advanced trims, and rust protection add to both options. New testing or certification requirements can adjust costs upward.
Key Cost Drivers in Cedar Versus Hardie Projects
Board thickness and exposure size directly affect material price per square foot. Finishing options, such as paint or stain, can add $1.50–$3.50 per sq ft.
Site access and substrate condition can add labor hours by 10–40%.
Ways to Reduce Cedar vs Hardie Board Costs
Choose standard 6″ exposure instead of custom profiles to lower material waste. Favor mid-range cedar grades or prefinished Hardie to reduce finishing costs.
Staging work in off-peak seasons and bundling siding with window/door replacements can shave several thousand dollars. Request multiple quotes and compare per-sq-ft totals rather than line-item subtotals.
Mini-Quote Examples and Comparisons
| Scenario | Material | Labor | Other | Total |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1,500 sq ft Cedar, standard grade | $2,250 | $6,000 | $1,500 permits/disposal | $9,750 |
| 1,500 sq ft Hardie, standard texture | $4,000 | $7,500 | $1,750 permits/disposal | $13,250 |
These examples assume mid-range labor rates and standard substrate repair is not required. Prices reflect common regional variations and typical project scopes.