Cedar shake roofs offer homeowners a distinctive, rustic aesthetic with exceptional insulation properties and natural durability. These handcrafted wooden roofing materials are split from cedar logs and have been used for centuries for their weather resistance and visual appeal. When considering a cedar shake roof, understanding the investment required is crucial, as costs can range significantly from $11,000 to $30,000 for the average home. This natural roofing option typically costs between $7 and $15 per square foot installed, depending on various factors including quality, roof complexity, and location.
| Cedar Shake Roof Element | Average Cost Range |
|---|---|
| Materials Only | $4-$8 per square foot |
| Installation | $3-$7 per square foot |
| Total Installed Cost | $7-$15 per square foot |
| Average 2,000 sq ft Roof | $14,000-$30,000 |
Factors Affecting Cedar Shake Roof Costs
The final price tag of your cedar shake roof is influenced by multiple variables. Roof size and complexity are the most significant cost determinants, with steep pitches, multiple levels, and architectural features like dormers and skylights increasing labor time and material usage.
Material quality plays a crucial role in pricing, with premium cedar grades commanding higher prices but offering better longevity. The thickness of shakes (heavy, medium, or light) affects both durability and cost, with thicker options being more expensive but lasting longer.
Your geographic location impacts costs through regional material availability, labor rates, and climate considerations. Areas with higher costs of living typically see elevated installation prices, while regions prone to extreme weather may require additional waterproofing measures.
The existing roof condition matters too—removing and disposing of old roofing materials can add $1-$5 per square foot to your project. Additional features like enhanced underlayment, ridge caps, and treatment for fire or insect resistance also contribute to the overall investment.
Average Cedar Shake Roof Cost Breakdown
A comprehensive cedar shake roof installation involves multiple cost components beyond just the shakes themselves. Understanding this breakdown helps homeowners budget appropriately and identify areas where costs might be managed.
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| Cost Component | Percentage of Total Cost | Average Cost (per square foot) |
|---|---|---|
| Cedar Shake Materials | 40-50% | $4-$8 |
| Labor | 30-40% | $3-$7 |
| Underlayment/Felt | 5-8% | $0.50-$1.00 |
| Flashing and Accessories | 5-7% | $0.50-$0.75 |
| Old Roof Removal | 7-10% | $1-$5 |
| Permits | 1-3% | $0.10-$0.30 |
| Cleanup and Disposal | 2-4% | $0.25-$0.50 |
Most homeowners can expect to pay $350-$450 per square (100 sq ft) for materials alone. Premium cedar shake materials may cost $450-$700 per square, while mid-grade options range from $350-$450, and economy grades typically run $300-$350 per square.
Labor costs vary by region but generally range from $300-$700 per square, with complex roofs commanding higher prices. Underlayment is a critical component, with 30-pound felt typically costing $50-$70 per square and synthetic options ranging from $70-$100 per square.
Cedar Shake Roof Cost by Roof Size
The total square footage of your roof directly correlates with your project cost. Most residential homes have roof areas significantly larger than their building footprint due to pitch, overhangs, and architectural features. Here’s what homeowners can expect to pay based on common home sizes:
| House Size (sq ft) | Approximate Roof Area (sq ft) | Low-End Cost ($7/sq ft) | Average Cost ($11/sq ft) | Premium Cost ($15/sq ft) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1,000 | 1,100-1,200 | $7,700-$8,400 | $12,100-$13,200 | $16,500-$18,000 |
| 1,500 | 1,600-1,800 | $11,200-$12,600 | $17,600-$19,800 | $24,000-$27,000 |
| 2,000 | 2,100-2,300 | $14,700-$16,100 | $23,100-$25,300 | $31,500-$34,500 |
| 2,500 | 2,600-2,900 | $18,200-$20,300 | $28,600-$31,900 | $39,000-$43,500 |
| 3,000 | 3,100-3,500 | $21,700-$24,500 | $34,100-$38,500 | $46,500-$52,500 |
These calculations assume a typical roof pitch of 6/12 to 8/12. Steeper roofs require more materials and labor, potentially increasing costs by 5-10% per additional pitch increment. Simpler roof designs with fewer valleys, dormers, and penetrations will fall toward the lower end of these ranges.
Material Grades and Their Impact on Cost
Cedar shakes come in several grades that significantly impact both cost and performance. Premium grades offer superior longevity and aesthetic appeal but can increase material costs by 30-50% compared to standard options.
Premium Grade Cedar Shakes
These top-tier shakes (often labeled as #1 grade) are made from 100% heartwood, contain minimal knots, and have straight grain patterns. They typically cost $6-$8 per square foot for materials alone. With their superior weather resistance and expected lifespan of 30-40 years, premium shakes represent the best long-term value despite higher initial costs.
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Medium Grade Cedar Shakes
Medium grade shakes (#2 grade) contain a mix of heartwood and sapwood with some knots permitted. These balanced options cost approximately $4.50-$6 per square foot in materials and offer 20-30 years of service life with proper maintenance. Many homeowners choose this grade for its reasonable compromise between quality and cost.
Economy Grade Cedar Shakes
Economy grades (#3 or utility grade) may include more sapwood, knots, and irregular grain patterns. While more affordable at $4-$5 per square foot, these shakes typically last only 15-25 years and may require earlier repairs. They’re suitable for budget-conscious projects or buildings where premium aesthetics are less important.
Thickness Options
Cedar shakes are available in different thicknesses that affect both price and performance:
- Heavy Split (3/4″ to 1-1/4″ at butt): Most expensive option, offering maximum durability and distinct shadow lines
- Medium Split (1/2″ at butt): Middle-range option balancing cost and performance
- Tapersawn (5/8″ to 5/16″ at butt): More uniform appearance similar to shingles, with mid-range pricing
Installation Costs and Considerations
Professional installation of cedar shake roofing is highly specialized work that typically accounts for 30-40% of the total project cost. The expertise required for proper installation is crucial for ensuring maximum roof lifespan and performance.
Labor rates vary significantly by region, with national averages ranging from $3-$7 per square foot or $300-$700 per square (100 sq ft). Urban areas and regions with higher costs of living typically see rates at the upper end of this spectrum, while rural locations may offer more competitive pricing.
Roof complexity dramatically impacts installation costs. Simple gable roofs with few obstacles may cost 20-30% less to install than complex designs with multiple dormers, valleys, skylights, and chimneys. Each cutout or penetration requires careful detailing to prevent future leaks.
Installation Timeframe
A typical cedar shake roof installation takes longer than conventional asphalt shingle installation:
- Small to medium home (1,500-2,000 sq ft): 5-7 days
- Larger home (2,500-3,500 sq ft): 7-10 days
- Complex or large roof (4,000+ sq ft): 10-14 days
Necessary structural repairs discovered during installation can extend timelines and increase costs. Reputable contractors typically include contingency allowances in their estimates to account for common issues like sheathing replacement ($2-$4 per square foot) or rafter repairs.
Regional Cost Variations
Cedar shake roof costs vary substantially across different regions of the United States due to several factors. West Coast states typically see lower cedar shake prices due to proximity to cedar sources in the Pacific Northwest, while East Coast and Midwest locations often pay 10-20% more due to shipping costs.
| U.S. Region | Average Cost (per square foot installed) | Regional Factors |
|---|---|---|
| Pacific Northwest | $7-$12 | Local cedar sources, experienced installers, high demand |
| West Coast | $9-$14 | Higher labor costs, favorable climate, strong market preference |
| Midwest | $8-$13 | Higher shipping costs, fewer specialized installers |
| Northeast | $10-$15 | Higher labor costs, shipping distance, historic preservation requirements |
| Southeast | $9-$14 | Humidity concerns, fewer installers, special treatments needed |
| Southwest | $8-$13 | Fire treatment requirements, UV protection needs |
Climate considerations also impact regional costs. In humid areas, additional treatments against mold and mildew may add $0.50-$1.00 per square foot. Fire-prone regions often require pressure-treated fire-resistant cedar shakes, adding 15-25% to material costs but potentially reducing insurance premiums.
Local building codes and permits vary significantly by location. Some historic districts require specific cedar grades and installation methods, while certain municipalities have stringent fire codes that may require additional treatments or installation modifications.
Cedar Shake vs. Other Roofing Materials: Cost Comparison
When evaluating cedar shake roofing costs, it’s valuable to compare them with other popular roofing options. While cedar shakes require a higher initial investment than asphalt shingles, they offer advantages in aesthetics, insulation value, and potential longevity.
| Roofing Material | Average Cost (per sq ft installed) | Expected Lifespan | Pros vs. Cedar Shakes | Cons vs. Cedar Shakes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cedar Shakes | $7-$15 | 20-40 years | Natural beauty, insulation value, historic appeal | Higher maintenance, fire concerns, higher initial cost |
| Asphalt Shingles | $3.50-$6 | 15-30 years | Lower cost, easier installation, wide availability | Less distinctive, shorter lifespan, less insulation value |
| Metal Roofing | $7-$14 | 40-70 years | Longer lifespan, fire resistance, low maintenance | Different aesthetic, potential noise concerns, comparable cost |
| Synthetic Shake | $7-$12 | 30-50 years | Lower maintenance, consistent appearance, fire resistance | Less authentic look, less insulation value, petroleum product |
| Slate | $15-$30 | 75-100+ years | Extreme longevity, premium appearance, low maintenance | Much higher cost, weight concerns, fewer installers |
| Clay/Concrete Tile | $10-$18 | 50-100 years | Longevity, low maintenance, fire resistance | Different aesthetic, weight concerns, less insulation value |
While cedar shakes fall in the mid-to-high range for initial costs, they offer natural insulation properties that can reduce energy costs by 10-20% compared to asphalt shingles. This energy efficiency, combined with their distinctive appearance, makes them an attractive long-term investment for many homeowners.
Maintenance Costs for Cedar Shake Roofs
Ongoing maintenance is an essential consideration when calculating the lifetime cost of cedar shake roofing. Unlike some low-maintenance alternatives, cedar requires regular care to achieve its full potential lifespan of 30-40 years.
Annual inspections are recommended and typically cost $200-$500, depending on roof size and complexity. Professional inspections help identify issues before they become major problems and generally include removing debris, checking for damaged shakes, and evaluating flashing integrity.
Cleaning should be performed every 1-3 years depending on your climate and surrounding vegetation. Professional cleaning services cost $250-$800 for an average home and remove moss, lichen, and debris that can trap moisture against the wood. DIY cleaning is possible but requires careful techniques to avoid damaging the cedar.
Periodic Treatment Costs
Preservative treatments extend cedar roof lifespans and include:
- Water repellent treatments: $0.75-$1.50 per square foot, applied every 2-3 years
- UV protection treatments: $0.75-$1.25 per square foot, applied every 3-5 years
- Fungicidal/algaecidal treatments: $0.50-$1.00 per square foot, especially important in humid climates
Minor repairs are occasionally necessary and typically cost $200-$600 for replacing individual damaged shakes. More significant repairs may be needed after 15-20 years, potentially costing $1,000-$3,000 depending on the affected area. These maintenance expenses should be factored into the lifetime cost calculation when comparing roofing options.
Longevity and Long-term Value
The higher initial investment in cedar shake roofing can be justified through its long-term value proposition. A properly installed and maintained cedar shake roof can last 30-40 years, comparing favorably to asphalt’s typical 15-25 year lifespan.
This longevity calculation must factor in regional climate conditions. Cedar performs exceptionally well in temperate climates but may have shorter lifespans in extremely humid or consistently wet environments without additional treatments and maintenance.
Property value enhancement is a significant benefit, with cedar shake roofs typically adding 5-7% to home values compared to standard roofing. This premium is particularly notable in luxury home markets, historic districts, and areas where traditional aesthetics are highly valued.
Energy efficiency provides ongoing returns through the roof’s lifetime. Cedar’s natural insulation properties can reduce heating and cooling costs by 10-20% compared to asphalt shingles. This energy saving compounds annually, potentially offsetting $100-$300 per year in utility costs for an average home.
Long-term Cost Analysis
When calculating true lifetime costs:
- Initial installation: $7-$15 per square foot
- Annual maintenance: Approximately $0.15-$0.30 per square foot per year
- Major maintenance (year 15-20): Approximately $1-$3 per square foot
- Energy savings: Approximately $0.05-$0.15 per square foot per year
Over a 30-year period, the total cost of ownership per square foot ranges from $12-$25, averaging $0.40-$0.83 per square foot per year. This compares favorably to alternatives when factoring in replacement cycles and energy benefits.
Ways to Save on Cedar Shake Roof Costs
While cedar shake roofing represents a premium investment, there are several strategies to manage costs without compromising quality. Timing your project during the roofing off-season (late fall through winter in many regions) can yield discounts of 5-15% as contractors compete for fewer available projects.
Selecting a mid-grade cedar shake can provide a reasonable balance between quality and cost. #2 Blue Label shakes offer good durability at prices 15-25% lower than premium grades, making them suitable for many applications where extreme longevity isn’t the primary concern.
Partial replacement is worth considering if only certain roof sections show significant wear. South and west-facing slopes typically deteriorate faster due to UV exposure. Replacing only damaged areas can save 50-70% compared to full replacement when appropriate.
Cost-Effective Installation Approaches
- Overlay installation over existing asphalt shingles (where building codes permit) can save $1-$3 per square foot in tear-off costs, though this approach isn’t ideal for long-term performance
- Using hybrid roofing approaches with cedar on visible facades and less expensive materials on less visible sections
- Opting for narrower exposure (5″ vs. 6″) uses more materials but can extend roof lifespan by improving water shedding
- Investing in quality underlayment may add initial costs but significantly extends roof life and reduces repair needs
Tax incentives and rebates may be available for cedar roofing in some locations, particularly for historic homes or buildings in designated historic districts. Energy efficiency improvements associated with cedar roofing may qualify for additional incentives worth investigating before beginning your project.
Insurance and Cedar Shake Roofs
Insurance considerations are an important factor in the total cost of cedar shake roof ownership. Due to cedar’s natural flammability, some insurance carriers charge higher premiums for homes with untreated cedar shake roofs, potentially adding 10-20% to annual homeowner’s insurance costs.
This premium increase can be mitigated by using fire-resistant treated cedar shakes. These specially processed shakes undergo pressure impregnation with fire retardants and typically earn a Class A or B fire rating, comparable to many non-wood alternatives. While treated shakes cost 15-25% more initially, the insurance savings often offset this expense within 5-7 years.
Regional insurance variations exist based on local fire risk and weather patterns. Western states with higher wildfire risk typically see the most significant insurance impacts, while areas with frequent hail may require specific coverage considerations for impact damage to cedar roofing.
Insurance Recommendations
- Obtain insurance quotes before finalizing roofing decisions to understand potential premium impacts
- Request detailed information about how fire-treated cedar affects policy pricing
- Consider higher deductible options to offset premium increases if necessary
- Document professional installation and maintenance to support potential claims
- Inquire about discounts for complementary fire safety measures like monitored alarm systems
Some insurers now offer declining premium structures for cedar roofs that incorporate modern safety features like fire-resistant underlayment, proper ventilation systems, and regular professional maintenance documentation. These programs recognize that well-maintained cedar roofs with contemporary safety features present significantly lower risks than older installations.
How to Get the Best Roofing Quotes
- Prioritize Workmanship
A roof is one of your home’s most important investments. Always choose a contractor based on experience and reputation — not just price. Poor installation can lead to expensive problems down the road. - Compare Multiple Estimates
Don’t settle for the first quote you receive. It’s always a smart move to compare at least three bids from local roofing professionals. You can 877-801-4315 to get local quotes from roofing contractors in your area, available across the United States. - Use Negotiation Tactics
After selecting a trusted roofer, be sure to use our proven tips — How to Negotiate with Roofing Contractors — to secure the best possible final price without cutting corners.