Cedar Shake Cost Guide: Compare Prices and Estimates 2026
The cost for cedar shakes varies based on material grade, roof size, and installation complexity. Typical price ranges combine material costs, labor, and disposal. This guide outlines the main drivers and provides practical price estimates for U.S. buyers seeking cedar shake projects.
Assumptions: region, roof size, shake quality, underlayment, and crew efficiency affect the final figure.
| Item | Low | Average | High | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Materials (cedar shakes) | $1.50/sq ft | $3.00/sq ft | $5.00/sq ft | Includes shakes only; higher grades cost more |
| Labor | $4.50/sq ft | $7.50/sq ft | $10.50/sq ft | Installation, nailing, underlayment |
| Removal/Disposal | $1.00/sq ft | $1.75/sq ft | $3.00/sq ft | Old roofing removal can add cost |
| Permits & Inspections | $200 | $600 | $1,200 | Depends on locality and project scope |
| Delivery | $0 | $0.50/sq ft | $1.25/sq ft | Local delivery charges may apply |
| Warranty & Overhead | $0.75/sq ft | $1.50/sq ft | $2.50/sq ft | Labor and materials guarantee |
Overview Of Costs
Typical project ranges for asphalt-colored cedar shakes on a standard ranch or two-story home span from about $6.50 to $12.50 per square foot installed. For a 2,000 sq ft roof, that equates to roughly $13,000 to $25,000, with higher totals tied to premium shakes, steeper roofs, or complex geometry. Projected per-square-foot costs help buyers compare bids quickly and identify outliers.
Assumptions: standard roof pitch (4/12 to 6/12), new underlayment, no extensive structural work, and typical deck/inspection requirements.
On a per-square-foot basis, expect materials in the $1.50–$5.00 range and installation around $4.50–$10.50 per sq ft, depending on shake grade, local labor rates, and crew efficiency. The total price includes removal of old material in many bids, but some proposals charge separately for disposal.
Cost Breakdown
Table summarizes major cost blocks to help benchmark bids and plan contingency. The following framework uses typical ranges with brief assumptions for cedar shake roofing projects.
| Component | Low | Average | High | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Materials | $1.50/sq ft | $3.00/sq ft | $5.00/sq ft | Includes shakes; more for premium grades |
| Labor | $4.50/sq ft | $7.50/sq ft | $10.50/sq ft | Rows of shingles, fastening, and underlayment |
| Underlayment & Flashing | $0.50/sq ft | $1.25/sq ft | $2.50/sq ft | Breathable or synthetic options |
| Removal | $1.00/sq ft | $1.75/sq ft | $3.00/sq ft | Old roofing disposal |
| Permits | $200 | $600 | $1,200 | Local requirements |
| Delivery | $0 | $0.50/sq ft | $1.25/sq ft | Distance dependent |
| Warranty & Overhead | $0.75/sq ft | $1.50/sq ft | $2.50/sq ft | Contractor coverage |
Factors That Affect Price
Key price drivers include shake grade (appearance and durability), roof pitch, total square footage, and whether the project includes tear-off, structural repair, or insulation upgrades. A steeper slope (>8/12) and larger roof area typically raise both labor and equipment costs. For cedar shakes, premium grades with longer lengths and tight grain can push costs upward by 15–25% compared with standard grades.
Regional differences also matter. In the Northeast and West Coast, labor rates are often higher than in the Midwest or South. Material selection, including the use of Western red cedar versus domestic cedar, influences both price and availability. Local climate considerations may necessitate higher underlayment or wind-resistance features, increasing overall costs.
Ways To Save
Budget tips include selecting a less expensive shake grade, choosing a mid-range underlayment, and optimizing the sequence of work to minimize labor time. Ordering shakes in larger, pre-cut bundles can reduce waste. If the roof is older but structurally sound, a repair-focused approach may be cheaper than full replacement. Obtaining multiple quotes helps identify fair market pricing and uncover hidden fees.
Consider seasonality: prices may dip slightly in shoulder seasons when roofing contractors have more availability. If permits and inspections add administrative time, plan ahead to reduce delays and price spikes.
Regional Price Differences
Comparison across three markets shows how location shapes final bids. In the Northeast, expect higher labor and permitting costs; the West often mirrors Northeast with modestly higher material taxes. The Midwest tends to offer the most favorable overall pricing due to competitive bidding. Typical regional deltas are within ±15% to ±25% of the national average, driven by crew rates, material transport, and local codes.
Labor & Installation Time
Work duration and crew size directly affect labor cost. A standard two-person crew may take 3–5 days on a 2,000 sq ft roof, depending on pitch and complexity. If an additional installer is needed for steep sections or rafters, expect labor costs to rise. A rough-time estimator can help align bids with realistic timelines.
Additional & Hidden Costs
Hidden fees can include debris disposal beyond basic removal, protective tarps, scaffolding usage, or temporary power needs. Steeper roofs, complex geometry, or poor accessibility often trigger crane or additional equipment charges. Ensure bids clearly itemize any extra charges to avoid surprises later.
Real-World Pricing Examples
Three scenario cards illustrate typical bids: Basic, Mid-Range, and Premium. Each uses cedar shakes with standard underlayment and removal of old roofing. Scenarios assume a 2,000 sq ft roof and average local labor rates; actual bids vary by region and contractor.
- Basic: Shakes at $1.50/sq ft material, labor at $4.50/sq ft, removal $1.00/sq ft; total around $7.50–$9.50 per sq ft; approximate $15,000–$19,000 for 2,000 sq ft.
- Mid-Range: Shakes at $2.50/sq ft, labor at $6.50/sq ft, removal $1.50/sq ft; total near $9.50–$12.50 per sq ft; about $19,000–$25,000 for 2,000 sq ft.
- Premium: Shakes at $4.00/sq ft, labor at $9.00/sq ft, removal $2.00/sq ft; total roughly $12.00–$15.50 per sq ft; around $24,000–$31,000 for 2,000 sq ft.
Assumptions: region, specs, labor hours.
Maintenance & Ownership Costs
Five-year outlook for cedar shakes includes periodic maintenance, cleaning, and potential resealing or replacement of damaged shakes. Cedar is naturally durable but requires annual inspections, especially after severe weather. Expect occasional touch-ups or replacement calls within the first 5 years, adding to the total cost of ownership.
Annual maintenance can be modest, around a few hundred dollars for inspection and minor repairs, but major repair or partial replacement might be needed after a decade depending on climate and installation quality. A properly vented attic and sound underlayment can extend the life and reduce long-term expenses.