Cedar shingle siding blends rustic appeal with remarkable durability, making it a sought-after choice for American homes. But how much does cedar shingle siding cost per square foot in 2025? This article offers current pricing averages, explores key installation and material factors, and highlights tips to maximize value for your budget. Whether you’re planning a full exterior remodel or a small upgrade, discover everything you need to know about cedar shingle siding costs below.
| Aspect | Typical Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Material Cost | $4 – $9/sq. ft. | Varies by grade, thickness, and finish |
| Installation Cost | $3 – $7/sq. ft. | Impacted by local labor rates and wall complexity |
| Total Installed Cost | $7 – $16/sq. ft. | Combines materials and labor |
What Is Cedar Shingle Siding?
Cedar shingle siding consists of thin, precisely cut pieces of cedar wood applied in overlapping rows on building exteriors. Known for their distinct natural appearance and weather resistance, cedar shingles enhance both classic and modern architectural styles. They’re often chosen for their insulation value and ability to handle harsh weather conditions.
Current Material Costs: Cedar Shingle Siding By The Square Foot
Material costs for cedar shingles vary depending on factors such as wood species, grade, size, and whether shingles are unfinished or pre-stained. As of 2025, homeowners can expect to pay:
- Budget-grade, unfinished white cedar shingles: $4 – $6 per sq. ft.
- Premium, kiln-dried red cedar shingles: $7 – $9 per sq. ft.
- Pre-finished or factory-stained shingles: Add $1 – $2 per sq. ft.
Red cedar typically commands a higher price due to its richer color, increased decay resistance, and higher demand. Unfinished shingles are less expensive up front but may require more maintenance after installation.
Installation Costs For Cedar Shingle Siding
The cost of labor and installation depends on regional wage trends, home design complexity, and whether additional preparation is needed. Average installation costs range from $3 to $7 per square foot across the United States. Factors that influence installation costs include:
- Multi-story homes or homes with many corners and features
- Removal and disposal of old siding
- Required repairs to underlying structure
- Regional availability of skilled installers
Total Cedar Shingle Siding Installation Cost Breakdown
To clarify how material and labor costs combine, here’s a breakdown of total installed costs per square foot for different scenarios:
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| Scenario | Material | Installation | Total Installed Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Basic (DIY possible) | $4/sq. ft. | $3/sq. ft. | $7/sq. ft. |
| Standard Professional | $6/sq. ft. | $5/sq. ft. | $11/sq. ft. |
| Premium, Pre-finished | $9/sq. ft. | $7/sq. ft. | $16/sq. ft. |
The type of cedar shingle and the expertise of the installer have the biggest impact on your final project cost.
Cost Comparison: Cedar Shingles Versus Alternative Sidings
How does cedar shingle siding cost compare to other popular materials? This table spotlights average installed costs per square foot for common siding types in 2025:
| Siding Material | Installed Cost/Sq. Ft. | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Cedar Shingle | $7 – $16 | Natural wood, high maintenance, excellent curb appeal |
| Vinyl Siding | $4 – $9 | Low maintenance, less authentic wood look |
| Fiber Cement | $7 – $13 | Durable, can mimic wood grain |
| Engineered Wood | $6 – $12 | More weather-resistant than traditional wood |
| Traditional Wood Clapboard | $7 – $12 | Similar to shingles, but different application style |
While cedar shingle siding is more expensive than vinyl, it matches or slightly exceeds the price of high-end fiber cement or engineered wood—offering unmatched natural beauty and insulation.
Main Factors Influencing Cedar Shingle Siding Costs
A variety of considerations directly affect the cost per square foot. Below is a breakdown of the most influential components:
- Type & Grade Of Cedar: Clear (knot-free) and select grades cost more than common or utility grades.
- Shingle Length And Thickness: Longer, thicker shingles often last longer but cost more per unit.
- Finishing & Treatments: Pre-staining or fire treatments raise prices but reduce future maintenance.
- Geographical Location: Higher labor rates apply in urban or coastal regions with high demand for cedar.
- Home Design Complexity: Gables, towers, and decorative patterns increase installation time and waste.
- Seasonal Variation: Prices can spike in spring and summer when exterior projects peak.
- Old Siding Removal: Adds $1 – $2 per square foot for tear-off and disposal in many cases.
Cost Perspectives: A Closer Look By Different Stakeholders
| Stakeholder | Specific Cost Considerations | Cost Range & Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Homeowners | Product choice, resale value, curb appeal, immediate budget | $7 – $16/sq. ft. (total); Higher-end options may add value at resale |
| Contractors & Installers | Labor time, waste factor, site access, specialty skills | Installation: $3 – $7/sq. ft.; Steep roofs, irregular walls may increase labor |
| Developers | Bulk material pricing, supply chain, timing | Bulk discounts possible, DIY can drop total to $6 – $10/sq. ft. |
| DIY Enthusiasts | Material only, tool rental, learning curve | Material: $4 – $9/sq. ft.; Savings offset by time, risk of errors |
The buyer’s level of involvement—DIY vs. professional—dramatically influences total outlay and value received.
Regional Price Differences For Cedar Shingle Siding
Costs for cedar shingle siding per square foot vary across the United States, shaped by regional preferences, shipping fees, and installer expertise. Here is an estimate of how costs change in major American regions:
- West Coast/Pacific Northwest: $8 – $15/sq. ft.; Ample cedar supply, high demand, skilled installers
- Northeast (New England): $7 – $13/sq. ft.; Traditional architecture, moderate supply costs
- Midwest: $6 – $12/sq. ft.; Less common, more variability in labor
- Southeast & South: $8 – $16/sq. ft.; High shipping/import costs for cedar
In general, regions closer to where cedar is harvested—such as the Pacific Northwest—experience lower material costs but potentially higher labor expenses due to increased project demand. Midwestern and Southern homeowners may see surcharges due to freight and lower local supply.
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Longevity, Maintenance, And Life-Cycle Costs
When comparing cedar shingle siding to other materials, it’s essential to account for life-cycle costs: not just the purchase and installation price, but upkeep and expected lifespan.
- Lifespan: Quality cedar siding lasts 25–40 years with proper care; premium finishes and regular sealing can extend this.
- Maintenance: Expect to clean, stain, or seal every 5–7 years for optimal appearance and durability; budget $1–$2/sq. ft. per maintenance cycle.
- Repair: Individual shingles are easy to replace, but labor costs can range from $100–$250 per small repair area.
Properly maintained cedar siding may cost less than frequent replacement of cheaper alternatives over the long term.
Material Grades And Their Effect On Price
Cedar shingles are graded based on clear wood content, knot size, and overall appearance. The main grades include:
- Grade 1 (“Blue Label”): All clear heartwood, used for visible surfaces; $7–$9/sq. ft.
- Grade 2 (“Red Label”): Sound wood, some knots, suitable for most residential jobs; $5–$7/sq. ft.
- Grade 3 (“Black Label”): More knots, often used as undercourse or for outbuildings; $4–$5/sq. ft.
Upgrading to a higher grade enhances appearance, weatherproofing, and resale value—but at a premium.
Cost-Saving Tips And Strategies
Homeowners eager to maximize value on a cedar shingle siding project should consider these strategies:
- Buy pre-finished shingles to reduce staining costs and future maintenance
- Time your project in late fall or winter to secure off-peak labor pricing
- Shop around for bulk discounts or truckload pricing if siding an entire home
- Mix grades (use premium on visible areas, economy grade elsewhere)
- Request estimates from local pros and check references
Pursuing bids from multiple established installers can reveal significant seasonal and regional price differences—sometimes as high as 20%–30% for comparable projects.
Hidden Or Additional Costs To Account For
In addition to the headline per-square-foot price, be aware of potential extra expenses:
- Removal of old siding: Often $1–$2/sq. ft.
- Structural repairs: Fixing damaged sheathing or framing can add $500–$2,000+ depending on extent
- Building permits and inspection: $200–$600, depending on locality
- Upgrading insulation or house wrap: $1–$3/sq. ft. if not included
- Disposal fees: $100–$500 for hauling away old materials
Accurately budgeting for these contingencies will provide a clearer financial roadmap and avoid surprises.
Return On Investment: Does Cedar Shingle Siding Add Value?
Many Americans choose cedar siding for aesthetic appeal, but the return on investment (ROI) is also notable:
- Boosts curb appeal and distinguishes homes in competitive real estate markets
- Premium buyers often pay more for homes with “natural wood exteriors”
- Expected ROI of 75%–80% on project costs when the home is resold in 2–10 years (per Remodeling Magazine 2025)
The unique look of cedar shingle siding can set a home apart, justifying the higher initial outlay for many owners.
Environmental And Energy Benefits
Cedar shingle siding is one of the most sustainable natural siding options. Not only is cedar renewable and biodegradable, but it also offers outstanding insulation. This can contribute to longer-term savings on heating and cooling costs.
- Reduces thermal bridging for lower energy bills
- Qualifies for green building credits in many states
- Recyclable at end of life—increases eco-friendly credentials
Choosing local or FSC-certified stock further boosts environmental benefits and may increase eligibility for local rebates or tax credits.
Frequently Asked Questions About Cedar Shingle Siding Costs
- Is DIY installation realistic? It’s possible but labor-intensive; most homeowners benefit from hiring a professional installer.
- How are shingles sold? Most suppliers price by “square” (100 sq. ft.); always clarify coverage after overlap.
- Does painting or staining affect cost? Yes—factory-coated shingles cost more up front but reduce future maintenance expenses.
- What if only replacing one wall? Expect minimum job charges; single-wall replacements usually fall at the higher end of the cost range due to setup and economy of scale.
Clear communication with contractors and detailed written estimates are crucial for avoiding overages and meeting expectations.