The cost to replace cedar siding varies widely by house size, siding grade, and labor costs. Buyers usually pay a total that reflects material, installation, removal of old siding, and finishing. The price range shown here helps with budgeting and comparing quotes for cedar siding replacement projects.
Assumptions: standard 1,500–2,500 sq ft home, mid-grade Western red cedar bevel siding, normal access, Midwest-to-Southern labor rates, and a four-season climate.
| Item | Low | Average | High | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Siding material (cedar panels or boards) per sq ft | $3.50 | $6.50 | $9.50 | Includes grade F- or better; excludes specialty finishes |
| Labor for installation per sq ft | $3.00 | $5.50 | $8.50 | Includes nail mounting, sealing joints |
| Removal of old siding per sq ft | $0.75 | $1.75 | $3.50 | Depends on sheathing condition |
| Sheathing and surface prep per sq ft | $0.50 | $1.50 | $3.00 | Includes minor repairs |
| Finish coat or sealant per sq ft | $0.75 | $1.75 | $3.50 | Stain or paint; multiple coats may apply |
| Permits and inspections | $100 | $400 | $1,200 | Regional variation |
| Delivery and waste disposal | $0.20 | $0.60 | $1.50 | Per sq ft; includes debris removal |
Estimated total ranges in typical projects will fall between roughly $6,500 and $22,000 for a standard 1,500–2,500 sq ft home. The exact total depends on board width, profile, local labor rates, access, and tear-out needs.
Material Costs: Cedar Siding Grades and Profiles
Cedar siding comes in multiple profiles, including bevel, clapboard, shingle, or shake styles. The price per sq ft shifts with grade, width, and whether the boards are tongue-and-groove or nailed-on. Higher-grade cedar and wider boards drive up both materials and waste factors.
Labor and Installation Rate for Cedar Siding Replacement
Labor costs vary by region and contractor experience. The typical rate ranges from $4 to $9 per sq ft, depending on complexity, weather windows, and crew size. Expect longer timelines on multi-story homes or intricate trim work.
Formula example:
Scope Variations: Home Size and Surface Area
Smaller homes under 1,500 sq ft generally trend toward lower total costs, while larger houses exceed 2,800 sq ft. A two-story home often adds 10–25% to labor due to height and scaffolding needs. Project scope significantly shifts the price ceiling.
Regional Price Differences Across U.S. Regions
Prices commonly diverge by region due to labor markets and material transport. The West and Northeast tend to show higher average rates than the Southeast or Midwest. Regional delta can reach ±20–30% for similar siding and labor tasks.
System Types and Their Impact on Price
Bevel cedar siding generally costs less upfront than premium tongue-and-groove systems, but premium finishes can raise total cost by 10–25%. Shake or shingle textures add extra labor and waste. Choosing a system type changes both material costs and installation time.
Prep Work, Removal, and Site Prep Expenses
Removing existing siding and repairing any damaged sheathing adds cost. Expect removal to range from $0.75 to $3.50 per sq ft and repair to add to the per-square-foot total. Deferred prep work often creates hidden costs later in the project.
Permits, Inspections, and Local Fees
Some jurisdictions require building permits for exteriors or require inspections after completion. Permit costs can range from $100 to $1,200 depending on location and scope. Always verify local requirements early in planning.
Cost-Saving Tactics That Do Not Compromise Durability
Options to reduce price include selecting mid-grade cedar, reducing finish layers, bundling with other exterior work, or scheduling in off-peak seasons. Careful scope control and material choices keep long-term durability intact.