Prices for hand split cedar shakes depend on material grade, shake thickness, roof slope, and labor rates. Typical totals include material costs, delivery, and installation, with regions and workmanship affecting the final price. The following breakdown uses cost ranges in USD and highlights the main drivers of a hand split cedar shakes project.
| Item | Low | Average | High | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Material (cedar shakes, 5-7″ exposure) | $2.00 | $3.20 | $4.50 | Per sq ft of surface area |
| Labor to install | $2.50 | $4.25 | $7.00 | Per sq ft; varies by pitch and access |
| Delivery | $0.10 | $0.40 | $1.50 | Per sq ft or flat fee |
| Fasteners and hardware | $0.15 | $0.40 | $1.00 | Rings, nails, starter clips |
| Underlayment and barrier | $0.20 | $0.60 | $1.50 | One layer typical |
| Removal of existing siding | $0.50 | $1.20 | $2.50 | Optional if replacing |
Installed Cost Range For Hand Split Cedar Shakes By Surface Area
Typical total installed cost for hand split cedar shakes ranges from $4.50 to $9.75 per square foot, depending on grade, thickness, and roof complexity. Assumptions: standard 3:12 roof slope, normal attic access, Midwest labor rates, standard shake thickness.
Material Cost Drivers For Hand Split Cedar Shakes
Material prices are driven by shake size, grade, and wood supply cycles. A common range is $2.00-$4.50 per sq ft for shakes alone, with premium knot patterns or longer lengths pushing higher. Higher grades and thicker shakes increase both material cost and installation time.
Labor Variables That Shift The Quote For Cedar Shakes
Labor can swing install pricing by 2x depending on roof pitch, exposure, and complexity. Expect $2.50-$7.00 per sq ft for installation labor, with steeper roofs and intricate cuts at the top end. Assumptions: licensed crew, standard scaffold setup, typical working hours.
Regional Price Differences In The United States
Coast and rural markets show noticeable gaps. The West and Northeast often see $0.50-$1.50 higher per sq ft for both material and labor compared with the Midwest. Budget-conscious buyers may find savings by choosing regional suppliers and scheduling in shoulder seasons.
Typical Per-Unit Breakdowns For Smaller Projects
For a bungalow with 1,000 sq ft of siding, expected ranges are $4,500-$9,750 installed. For 2,000 sq ft, $9,000-$19,500. Delivery and waste disposal can add a small percentage to the total.
Impact Of Roof Size, Slope, And Access On Price
Steeper pitches or limited access add many labor hours. A 3:12 roof versus a 6:12 pitch can push installation time up to 15-20% higher, translating to higher labor costs. Site constraints directly affect hours and crew size.
Cost-Saving Tactics For Cedar Shake Projects
Opt for a common exposure and standard thickness to minimize waste. Schedule in off-peak seasons and obtain multiple quotes to compare labor rates. Bundling tasks like debris removal with installation can yield modest savings.
Price Outline By Project Scope And System Type
Single-story homes with standard gable roofs typically land in the lower to mid range, while multi-story or complex roof geometries push costs higher. Cedar shakes used as a full siding system may incur additional flashing and moisture barrier needs. System type and scope drive substantial price variation.
Optional Add-Ons And Their Price Impact
Starter shingles, millwork accents, or premium cap closures add $0.50-$2.00 per sq ft. Premium underlayment or extended warranties can add 5-10% to the project total. Each add-on should be evaluated for necessity and durability.
Concrete Examples Of Realistic Quotes
Example A: 1,200 sq ft of shakes, standard 5″ exposure, Midwest, mid-grade shakes, basic underlayment. Material $2.50, Labor $3.75, Delivery $0.35, Fasteners $0.35, Underlayment $0.70 → Total $9,000-$11,000 installed.
Example B: 2,000 sq ft, coastal region, premium cedar, steeper roof, extra flashing. Material $4.00, Labor $6.25, Delivery $0.60, Accessories $1.00 → Total $25,000-$32,000 installed.