Prices for Eastern White Cedar shingles vary widely based on quality, installation method, and regional labor. This guide outlines typical cost drivers, with low, average, and high ranges in USD and per-unit figures to help buyers budget accurately. Expect the main price levers to be material quality, labor rates, and site preparation.
Assumptions: Midwest and Southern rates, standard cedar grade, normal access, and typical 2- to 3-person crew for installation.
| Item | Low | Average | High | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Shingle material (Eastern White Cedar, per sq ft) | $2.50 | $4.50 | $6.00 | Natural, first-cut cedar; premium grades higher |
| Installed price (cedar shingles, per sq ft) | $6.00 | $9.00 | $12.00 | Includes underlayment, nailers, fasteners |
| Per bundle price (roughly 1 sq ft, typical count 18–22 shingles) | $40 | $55 | $75 | Varies by grade and cut |
| Labor rate (per hour, crew lead) | $40 | $60 | $75 | Regional differences apply |
| Labor hours (typical 1,000 sq ft house) | 40–60 | 60–90 | 90–120 | Includes cleanup and basic flashing |
| Delivery/haul-away (per project) | $100 | $350 | $800 | Distance-dependent |
Material cost for Eastern White Cedar Shingles by square foot
Material prices typically range from $2.50 to $6.00 per square foot for the basic Eastern White Cedar shingles. The lower end covers standard, machine-cut boards with moderate grain; the higher end reflects premium, hand-split, ultra-thin, or longer-wood runs. For a 1,500 sq ft siding job, material cost would usually fall in the $3,750 to $9,000 band, depending on grade and thickness.
Assumptions: standard 3/8-inch to 1/2-inch thick shingles, typical face nailling, no specialty finishes.
Installed price ranges by project size and system type
Installed cedar shingles typically cost $6.00 to $12.00 per square foot when installation is included, with many projects landing near $9.00–$10.50 per sq ft on average. On a full-residence scale, a 1,800 sq ft façade might range from about $16,200 to $21,600 installed, while a smaller 800 sq ft section could run $7,200 to $9,600. Per-square-foot economics improve slightly on larger homes due to fixed mobilization costs.
Assumptions: standard gradient roofline, no major repairs, normal weather window, midrange fasteners.
Regional price differences across U.S. markets
Regional factors can swing installed costs by roughly 15% to 25% between regions. The Northeast and West Coast often see higher labor rates, while the Midwest and Southeast may run lower. A 1,500 sq ft siding job could be $13,500–$22,500 in the Northeast, while the same job might be $10,000–$17,500 in the Mountain or Plains regions. Delivery distances and local code expectations also influence price.
Assumptions: standard permitting not needed or minimal; typical climate-related warranties apply.
Labor rates, crew size, and installation time for cedar shingles
Labor costs usually range from $40 to $75 per hour for skilled cedar shingle crews. A two- to four-person crew commonly handles installation, with about 60–90 minutes of crew time per 100 sq ft under normal conditions. Expect roughly 1,000–1,500 sq ft of siding to take 6–9 workdays for crew of 3–4, depending on roof complexity and weather. Final project duration can influence scheduling fees and weather-related delays.
Assumptions: standard fascia, no heavy flashing overhaul, typical weather window.
Major cost components in a cedar shingle quote
Key cost elements include Materials, Labor, Delivery/Disposal, and Underlayment/Flashings. The following breakdown shows typical ranges for a mid-sized home:
| Component | Low | Average | High | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Materials | $2.50/sq ft | $4.50/sq ft | $6.00/sq ft | Shingles, underlayment, fasteners |
| Labor | $40/hr | $60/hr | $75/hr | Crew wages and burden |
| Delivery/Disposal | $100 | $350 | $800 | Transport and dumpster fees |
| Warranty/Inspection | $0 | $0–$200 | $400 | Material and workmanship coverage |
| Underlayment/Flashing | $0.50/sq ft | $1.50/sq ft | $2.50/sq ft | Ice/water shield and metal flashing |
Formula note: for labor costs; materials per sq ft for supply line.
What factors most affect the final cedar shingle price
Two pivotal drivers are shingle grade and roof complexity. Higher-grade Eastern White Cedar increases material costs by 20%–40% and may require precise cutting. Roof complexity, including steep pitches, multiple dormers, or spray-in valleys, can push installation time by 15%–40% and raise labor charges. Edge detail work and custom flashing add costs that aren’t captured in a simple sq ft estimate.
Assumptions: typical gable or hip roof; no heavy architectural features beyond standard dormers.
Ways to reduce the price without sacrificing quality
Focus on scope control and material choices to trim price safely. Consider batching the project with other exterior work to share delivery and staging costs. Opt for standard grade cedar instead of premium hand-split boards when curb appeal can be balanced with price. Schedule installations in the off-peak season if possible, and ensure pre-work prep is completed to avoid delays. Request itemized quotes to compare exact line items rather than a single lump figure.
Assumptions: moderate climate, no urgent replacement, no extensive structural repairs required.
Underlayment and accessory add-ons worth budgeting for
Underlayment, flashing, and drip edge can add $1 to $2 per square foot to material costs but protect against moisture intrusion. In regions with heavy rainfall or freeze-thaw cycles, ice and water shield near eaves can be essential. If the contractor excludes these, expect a separate quote later that may exceed $1,000 for a typical home. Bundling drip edge and starter courses often saves labor time.
Assumptions: standard eaves and rake lines; no custom decorative trim.
Cedar shingles vs alternatives: a quick price comparison
Cine a cedar option compare with vinyl or engineered wood siding shows cedar typically costs more upfront, but provides a longer lifespan if properly installed. For a 1,200 sq ft wall, cedar installed may run $6.50–$11.50 per sq ft, while vinyl could be $3.50–$6.50 and engineered wood $4.50–$8.50. Long-term ownership costs, maintenance frequency, and resale value are important considerations beyond initial price.
Assumptions: standard slope and exposure; typical warranty terms apply to each material type.
Replacement cycle and five-year cost snapshot
Eastern White Cedar shingles often require re-roofing or resealing after roughly 20–25 years depending on climate and maintenance. For a 1,500 sq ft installation, expect re-shingle costs to re-emerge in year 20–25 at $9–$12 per sq ft installed, or $13,500–$18,000 for a full replacement at current prices. Annual maintenance may run $200–$600, mostly for cleaning, sealant touch-ups, and minor repairs. Budgeting every five years for inspections can prevent bigger price shocks later.
Assumptions: average climate, normal wear, standard wind/load exposure.