Cedar Plank Siding Cost Guide 2026
Cedar plank siding cost varies based on wood grade, plank width, and installation specifics. Buyers typically pay for material quality, labor time, and site conditions, with the main drivers being wood species grade, thickness, and local labor rates. This article provides practical pricing in USD with clear low–average–high ranges and per-unit details to help with budgeting.
| Item | Low | Average | High | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Material (cedar planks, prefinished) | $2.50/sq ft | $4.50/sq ft | $7.50/sq ft | Includes kiln-dried, heartwood cedar; width varies |
| Labor (installation) | $3.50/sq ft | $6.00/sq ft | $10.00/sq ft | Includes prep, Nailing, sealing; crew size varies |
| Equipment | $0.25/sq ft | $0.75/sq ft | $1.50/sq ft | Ladders, scaffold, nails, fastening systems |
| Permits | $0 | $300 | $1,000 | Depends on local code and project scope |
| Delivery/Disposal | $0.25/sq ft | $0.60/sq ft | $1.20/sq ft | Includes waste from packaging and offcuts |
| Warranty | $0 | $200 | $600 | Manufacturing warranty on cedar; workmanship may vary |
| Contingency | $0 | $0.60/sq ft | $1.50/sq ft | Typically 5–10% of project cost |
| Taxes | $0 | $0.60/sq ft | $1.50/sq ft | Varies by jurisdiction |
Assumptions: region, specs, labor hours.
Overview Of Costs
Typical price range for cedar plank siding projects is driven by plank width, grade, and installation complexity. A 1,500 sq ft house with standard 6-inch cedar planks commonly falls between $12,000 and $28,000 for complete siding replacement, including materials and labor. Per-square-foot ranges help compare options: $4.50–$9.50 per sq ft installed is a representative band for mid-grade finishes in typical climates.
Cost Breakdown
The following table highlights the main cost components and how they contribute to the total. Assumptions include a standard two-story home, typical eave complexity, and no major structural repairs.
| Category | Low | Average | High | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Materials | $2.50/sq ft | $4.50/sq ft | $7.50/sq ft | Includes cedar boards and sealant |
| Labor | $3.50/sq ft | $6.00/sq ft | $10.00/sq ft | Installation, minor trim work |
| Equipment | $0.25/sq ft | $0.75/sq ft | $1.50/sq ft | Tools, ladders, fasteners |
| Permits | $0 | $300 | $1,000 | Code compliance |
| Delivery/Disposal | $0.25/sq ft | $0.60/sq ft | $1.20/sq ft | Shipping and waste |
| Warranty | $0 | $200 | $600 | Manufacturer and workmanship |
| Contingency | $0 | $0.60/sq ft | $1.50/sq ft | Contingent budget |
| Taxes | $0 | $0.60/sq ft | $1.50/sq ft | Taxable amount varies |
data-formula=”labor_hours × hourly_rate”> Total cost is sensitive to crew efficiency and weather. In cooler regions, installation may extend time, increasing labor hours by 10–20% over spring months.
What Drives Price
Key price drivers are plank width and grade, labor intensity, and climate-related prep. Wider planks reduce seam count but may add material waste if stock is limited. Higher-grade cedar (heartwood-rich, fewer knots) costs more than common grades and may require less maintenance upfront. Climate affects preparation: humid regions demand better moisture barriers, while arid zones may need different sealants. Material availability and lead times can shift the price delta by several hundred dollars per project.
Cost By Region
Regional differences can shift cedar siding costs by roughly ±12–22% depending on local labor rates and material availability. For example, coastal metro areas typically see higher delivery and permit costs, while rural regions may offer lower labor but longer lead times. Regional price differences influence total estimates more than most other factors.
Labor & Installation Time
Labor cost is a major portion of the project. Typical installation time for a standard 1,500 sq ft home ranges from 5 to 12 days for a crew of 2–4 workers, depending on weather and surface condition. Assuming 8 hours per day and a mid-range crew, labor could run $4.50–$6.00 per sq ft on average.
Additional & Hidden Costs
Hidden costs often include underlayment replacement, moisture barrier upgrades, and repairs to damaged sheathing. If existing siding removal is required, disposal and haul-away fees increase. Some projects require temporary protection for landscaping or driveways, adding to delivery/cleanup charges. Accounting for these extras helps prevent budget overruns.
Price By Region: Three Scenarios
Regional comparisons illustrate how markets can differ in practice. Below are three representative regions with approximate deltas from the national average.
- Coastal Metropolitan: materials +15–25%, labor +10–18%
- Midwest Suburban: materials +0–10%, labor +0–8%
- Rural Southwest: materials -5–10%, labor -5–12%
Real-World Pricing Examples
Three scenario cards show typical quotes with varying specs and labor needs.
Basic
Specs: standard 6-inch clean cedar, mid-grade, no accent trim, single-story expansion. Labor: 40–60 hours. Per-unit price: materials $4.50/sq ft, labor $6.00/sq ft. Total: 1,800 sq ft project priced around $16,000–$24,000. Assumptions: region, specs, labor hours.
Mid-Range
Specs: 6–8 inch boards, higher grade, basic moisture barrier upgrade, minimal decorative trim. Labor: 60–90 hours. Materials $5.50/sq ft, labor $7.50/sq ft. Total: 1,800 sq ft project around $22,000–$34,000. Assumptions: region, specs, labor hours.
Premium
Specs: wide boards, premium heartwood Cedar, enhanced sealant system, extra trim and corner work. Labor: 90–120 hours. Materials $7.00/sq ft, labor $9.50/sq ft. Total: 1,800 sq ft project around $32,000–$54,000. Assumptions: region, specs, labor hours.