Cedar shake siding offers timeless beauty and substantial durability, but understanding the labor cost to install cedar shake siding is critical for budgeting your home improvement project. Labor rates vary by region, home size, and project complexity. This comprehensive article explores pricing details, labor breakdowns, influencing factors, and expert tips to help American homeowners make informed decisions about cedar shake siding installation.
| Cost Perspective | Average Range (Per Square Foot) | Key Considerations |
|---|---|---|
| Labor Only | $4.00 – $8.00 | Region, installer reputation, prep complexity, story count |
| Material + Labor | $8.00 – $15.00 | Cedar grade, finish, local supply |
| Total Project (2,000 sqft) | $16,000 – $30,000 | Removals, repairs, design extras |
What Influences Labor Cost To Install Cedar Shake Siding?
The labor cost to install cedar shake siding depends on multiple project-specific factors. Understanding each of these helps homeowners anticipate their investment and plan for contingencies or upgrades.
Regional Labor Rates
Geographic location directly impacts installation costs. Areas with higher living expenses and construction demand (such as the Northeast, Northwest, and major metropolitan cities) typically command higher labor fees. By contrast, rural or southern states may see rates on the lower end of the average range.
Project Size And Home Complexity
The total square footage of siding surface affects overall labor costs, but complexity also matters. Multi-story homes, unique architectural styles, and intricate trim details increase labor hours compared to simple, single-story homes.
Preparation And Demolition Needs
Existing siding removal, wall repair, and surface preparation add time and cost to any cedar shake siding project. Sometimes underlying damage—like rot or mold—must be addressed before new cedar shakes can be installed, further influencing labor requirements.
Type Of Cedar Shake And Installation Pattern
Cedar shakes are available in various grades and cuts, such as hand-split, taper-sawn, or uniform edge. Decorative patterns, custom finishes, and weatherproofing treatments also impact installation complexity and labor duration.
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Accessibility And Site Conditions
Limited site access, landscaping obstructions, and steep rooflines can increase labor costs due to the extra time, equipment, and safety considerations required to complete the job safely and efficiently.
Average Labor Cost Per Square Foot For Cedar Shake Siding
Most homeowners pay between $4.00 and $8.00 per square foot in labor costs to install cedar shake siding. Where your project falls within this range depends on the conditions detailed above. For a typical American home, with about 2,000 square feet of exterior wall space, labor alone may total $8,000–$16,000.
National Labor Cost Table For Cedar Shake Siding (Per Sq Ft)
| Region | Lower Range | Average | Upper Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| West Coast | $5.50 | $7.00 | $8.50 |
| Midwest | $4.00 | $5.50 | $7.00 |
| South | $4.00 | $5.00 | $6.50 |
| Northeast | $5.50 | $7.50 | $9.00 |
| National Average | $4.50 | $6.50 | $8.00 |
Local contractor rates may fluctuate within or beyond these ranges. Always obtain multiple in-person quotes for accuracy.
Comparing Cedar Shake Siding Installation With Other Siding Types
Understanding labor cost to install cedar shake siding often involves comparison with alternatives like vinyl, fiber cement, or engineered wood. Cedar shakes usually command higher labor prices due to their careful placement, nailing patterns, and finishing requirements.
| Siding Type | Labor Cost Per Sq Ft | Relative Complexity |
|---|---|---|
| Cedar Shake | $4.00 – $8.00 | High (individual shingle installation) |
| Vinyl | $2.00 – $4.50 | Low (larger panels, quicker install) |
| Fiber Cement | $4.00 – $7.00 | Moderate (heavy, but panelized) |
| Engineered Wood | $3.00 – $6.00 | Moderate (panelized, but more cuts) |
Cedar shakes stand out for their installation intricacy, requiring skilled labor for beauty and weather resistance.
Cost Breakdown: Labor Versus Materials
Homeowners often want to know how much of their cedar shake siding project goes to labor versus materials. Typically, labor accounts for about 35%–50% of the total installation cost, depending on shake type and regional wage differences.
| Expense Area | Cost Per Square Foot | Percent Of Total |
|---|---|---|
| Cedar Shake Material | $4.00 – $7.00 | 40–55% |
| Labor | $4.00 – $8.00 | 35–50% |
| Underlayment, Flashing, Fasteners | $0.50 – $1.00 | 5–10% |
| Finishing & Sealants | $0.50 – $1.00 | 5–10% |
The exact labor-to-material ratio varies with project requirements, shake type, and finish preferences.
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Detailed Labor Process For Cedar Shake Siding Installation
Installers follow multiple steps to ensure a durable, beautiful cedar shake siding finish:
- Site Preparation And Safety: Workers set up ladders, scaffolding, and protective barriers for safety and access.
- Siding Removal: If replacing old siding, the crew removes and disposes of it, which adds to labor hours.
- Wall Repairs: Any damaged sheathing, framing, or insulation is addressed before shakes are installed.
- Moisture Barrier Installation: Workers apply house wrap or felt to protect against moisture intrusion.
- Starter Course Placement: A precise starter course ensures straight lines and proper water shedding.
- Cedar Shake Installation: Shingles are individually fastened, typically with corrosion-resistant nails, using correct overlaps and spacing.
- Trim & Accessory Work: Corners, edges, windows, and doors are finished with specially fitted trim boards for aesthetics and water resistance.
- Finishing And Cleanup: Workers caulk seams, apply sealants if needed, and perform site cleanup.
Each phase requires attention to detail to prevent moisture problems and deliver long-lasting results.
Cost Variables: Single Story vs Two-Story Homes
The height of your home significantly affects the labor cost to install cedar shake siding. Two-story homes entail greater risk, more time for ladder or scaffold setup, and often require additional laborers for safe and efficient installation.
| Home Height | Labor Cost Per Sq Ft | Additional Factors |
|---|---|---|
| Single Story | $4.00 – $6.00 | Less time, easier access |
| Two Story | $6.00 – $8.00 | More setup, safety gear, time |
Expect labor on a two-story home to be 20%–35% higher than for a single-story installation due to increased risk and setup.
Labor Cost Impact Of Custom Designs And Finishes
Premium design choices and custom work also raise the labor cost for cedar shake siding installation. Consider the following upgrades:
- Decorative Patterns: Scalloped edges, alternating exposures, or custom arrangements extend installation time per square foot.
- Color Treatments: Pre-stained, painted, or custom-finished shakes require precise handling and can mean additional labor at both pre- and post-install stages.
- Historic Or Premium Restoration: Reproducing historic profiles or matching legacy installations demands specialized skills and longer schedules.
Each premium feature selected results in a higher per-square-foot labor charge compared to straightforward installations.
Labor Cost Differences Based On Contractor Type
Labor rates also fluctuate according to contractor experience, company size, and project management style.
| Contractor Type | Labor Cost Per Sq Ft | Advantages | Potential Downsides |
|---|---|---|---|
| Local Independent Installer | $4.00 – $6.00 | Personal service, lower cost | Fewer resources, slower timelines |
| Licensed Siding Contractor (Specialist) | $5.50 – $8.00 | Expertise in cedar installation, warranty options | Higher price, scheduling lead time |
| Design-Build or Full-Service Company | $6.00 – $9.00 | Turnkey project management, bundled services | Premium cost |
Choose a contractor based on project complexity, budget, and the importance of guarantees or support services.
Extra Labor Costs: Removal, Repairs & Disposal
Don’t overlook the cost of prepping your home for cedar shake siding. Removal of old siding, disposal of debris, and minor repairs all require additional labor time, usually quoted as:
- Siding Removal: $0.50 – $2.00 per sq ft, based on siding type and condition
- Debris Disposal: $200 – $800 for dumpster rental or haul away
- Wall Repairs (if needed): $2.00 – $5.00 per linear foot for rot/mold remediation
For homes with existing damage, total labor can rise by 10%–30% above base installation costs.
Itemized Table: Full Project Cost Perspectives
| Cost Component | Per Sq Ft Range | 2,000 Sq Ft Home Typical Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Labor: Standard Install | $4.00 – $8.00 | $8,000 – $16,000 |
| Material: Cedar Shakes | $4.00 – $7.00 | $8,000 – $14,000 |
| Removal Of Old Siding | $0.50 – $2.00 | $1,000 – $4,000 |
| Site Prep & Home Wrap | $0.50 – $1.00 | $1,000 – $2,000 |
| Repairs (If Needed) | $0.50 – $2.50 | $1,000 – $5,000 |
| Custom Finish Or Pattern | $0.50 – $2.00 | $1,000 – $4,000 |
| Total (w/ Moderate Extras) | $10.50 – $19.50 | $21,000 – $39,000 |
These itemized estimates highlight how various project elements contribute to the total labor and installation outlay for cedar shake siding.
How To Save On Labor Costs Without Compromising Quality
Homeowners seeking to manage the labor cost to install cedar shake siding can take several practical steps:
- Seek at least three detailed, apples-to-apples bids from local installers
- Schedule installation during off-peak seasons (late fall or winter in mild climates)
- Address any repairs or preparations (like painting or surface cleaning) in advance, if skilled
- Select uniform-cut shakes for a faster and more predictable installation process
- Bundle projects (add trim, doors, or windows) to save on mobilization and site setup costs
Professional installation delivers lasting value, but strategic planning and comparison shopping keep costs in check.
What To Look For In A Cedar Shake Siding Contractor
Choosing the right installer is key to quality and managing labor expenses. Prioritize these criteria:
- Licensing & Insurance: Ensure the contractor is properly insured and licensed for siding work
- Specialized Experience: Look for proven experience with cedar shake siding specifically
- References & Portfolio: Request examples of similar projects and speak with past clients
- Warranty Coverage: Favor installers offering both workmanship and manufacturer-backed material warranties
- Transparent Estimates: Insist on clear, detailed written bids with labor separate from materials and extras
Ultimately, a competent, transparent contractor prevents costly errors and ensures your cedar shakes are installed to the highest standards.
Frequently Asked Questions On Labor Cost For Cedar Shake Siding
How Long Does It Take To Install Cedar Shake Siding?
Installation time varies by home size and complexity, but a skilled crew can complete standard installations at a rate of about 125–175 square feet per day per worker. For a 2,000 square foot home, expect 2–3 experienced installers to need roughly 7–10 working days, excluding weather delays or extra repairs.
Can Homeowners Install Cedar Shake Siding Themselves?
DIY cedar siding is possible for handy owners, but the process is time-consuming and quality-critical. Incorrect exposure, nailing, or vapor barrier placement risks leaks and costly repairs. The labor cost saved often comes at the expense of professional results and warranty protection.
Does Labor Cost Include Removal Of Old Siding?
Not always. Many contractors list old siding removal and disposal as a separate line item. Clarify whether your quote includes both installation and demolition/cleanup tasks to avoid surprises.
How Do Labor Costs Change For Replacement Vs. New Construction?
Labor is typically lower for new construction, as there’s no removal or surface repair required. Siding replacement on existing homes usually incurs 10%–30% more in labor costs due to tear-off, disposal, and additional prep work.
Summary Table: Average Labor Cost To Install Cedar Shake Siding By Key Factors
| Key Factor | Typical Labor Cost / Sq Ft | Impact On Total Price |
|---|---|---|
| Simple Single-Story, Standard Grade | $4.00 – $5.50 | Most affordable, 10–12 days |
| Two-Story Homes | $6.00 – $8.00 | 20–35% higher, 12–16 days |
| Historic or Custom Pattern | $7.00 – $9.00 | Decorative work, higher skill |
| Removal & Repairs Included | Add $1.00 – $3.00 | If extensive old damage present |
Careful planning and contractor selection help optimize both labor cost and final results in any cedar shake siding project.