Cedar shake roof is a wonderful and long-lasting roofing material in the market today. Homeowners also select it because of its natural appearance, as well as its great insulating property, long life, and weather resistance. Nevertheless, cedar shakes can be classified as a luxury roofing fabric, and complete information on the entire cost is necessary before commencing a project. The overall price may be highly fluctuating depending on the kind of cedar, roof complexity, labor cost incurred in installing it, and the prices of the materials in the area. It can be an old roof that you are replacing, or you are constructing a new house, and knowing how the costs are divided will make you more confident in planning your budget. 

Many homeowners work with usa estimating services or other construction estimating consultants to get an accurate breakdown of expected expenses and avoid budget surprises. 

Average Cost of Cedar Shake Roof

Cedar shake roofing tends to be more costly than asphalt shingles, but it also has distinct beauties, durability, and weather resistance. Roughly, the cost range will be the following homeowner can expect:

An average-sized home with a cedar shake roof would have a total price ranging between 12,000 and 30,000 dollars, depending on the materials and workforce. That is typically equivalent to:

• $7 to $15 per square foot installed

• $700 to $1,500 per roofing square (100 sq. ft.)

The cost is dependent on the grade of cedar shakes, roof construction, and labor involved.

Types of Cedar Shakes and Their Costs

The pricing of the cedar shake mainly depends on the nature of the shake you want. Cedar shakes are available in various grades, and each of them has its peculiar features.

1. Common or Utility Grade

• Least expensive option

• Additional knots and flaws.

• Shorter lifespan

Normal Cost: $6-10 per square foot installed.

2. Select Grade

• Mostly straight grain

• Higher visual appearance and durability.

• More balanced price point

Average Price: $9-14 per square foot installed.

3. Premium Grade (Straight Grain 100% Grain)

• Highest quality

• Uniform look

• The longest life expectancy 40 years or above with care.

Common Price: $12-18/square foot installed.

The selection of the proper grade would rely on your budget and climate conditions in your area. Premium-grade shakes are more effective in rainy or humid climates.

Factors That Influence Cedar Shake Roof Costs

A cedar shake roof is affected by a large number of variables that determine its final price. The following are the key factors to be taken into account:

1. Roof Size

Big roofs are costlier in terms of materials and labor. The cost of the roof is normally determined on a per-square-foot basis, and therefore, the larger the roof, the higher the price.

2. Roof Complexity

A plain roof with minimum inclinations and depressions is cheaper to install. Dormers, chimneys, skylights, and steep roofs are complicated roofs that need extra labor and time.

3. Cedar Type and Thickness

Cedar shakes that are thicker and hand-cut are more expensive but more resistant to the weather.

4. Labor Costs

Cedar shake installation is a work of specialization. There is more labor cost involved in roofing as compared to asphalt or metal roofing because roofers have to spend more time to install each shake. This is 50% -60% of the cost that can be made up out of labor.

5. Underlayment and Accessories.

Breathable underlayment will be required to ensure moisture does not accumulate, ridge caps, flashing, nails, and ventilation materials. These are new expenses that are needed to perform.

6. Geographic Location

The price is different based on the price of cedar in your locality and the labor rate. Regions distant to cedar forests (such as the East Coast) are possibly priced higher in their materials than those nearer to the sources of cedar (such as the Pacific Northwest).

Additional Costs to Consider

In estimating a cedar shake roof, keep in mind that some other expenses can manifest themselves:

1. Old Roof Removal

Should you be required to tear off your old roof, you may expect to pay:

 $1,000–$3,000 depending on size and layers.

2. Repairs to Roof Deck

In case the decking under the old roof is spoiled, it should be repaired and then installed. The cost of deck repair is not fixed, but it can be between $200 and $1000 and above.

3. Treatment and Maintenance

Cedar must be treated with continued attention, like:

• Moss removal

• Protective oil treatments

• Cleaning and inspections

This upkeep aids in avoiding rot, mould, and shrinkage.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Cedar Shake Roofing

Advantages

• Natural, beautiful aesthetics.

• Great insulation (will help keep your house cooler in summer and warmer in winter)

• Strong, wind-resistant, and impact-resistant.

• Environmentally friendly and more so when obtained in the sustainable forests.

Disadvantages

• More expensive than asphalt shingles.

• Needs frequent repairs.

• Not perfect in the high moisture regions unless treated adequately.

• It is costlier and time-consuming in terms of installation.

How Long Does a Cedar Shake Roof Last?

Installed and properly maintained cedar shake roofs will last 30 to 50 years. Even high-grade cedar will last longer, particularly in dry climates. But, without maintenance, the life span may be brought down considerably.

To maximize durability:

• Keep debris off the roof

• Clean moss or algae

• Have adequate attic ventilation.

• Use protective oils after every few years.

Cedar is also one of the durable roofing materials when well taken care of.

Is a Cedar Shake Roof Worth the Cost?

Cedar shake roofing is a high-quality investment that has a high long-term value. It is selected by the homeowners due to its natural beauty, strength, and capacity to add beauty to the curb. Cedar shakes can be an attractive addition should you be in a place where cedar would suit well, and you want a touch of tradition and rustic look.

Alternatives such as asphalt, composite shingles, or metal roofing could be less maintenance-intensive for those who have not been able to keep up with their building, or the climate is very humid.

Conclusion

One of the most appealing and long-term roofing materials that has a high price is cedar shake roofs. The cost spent by homeowners on shaking is usually between 12,000 and 30,000 dollars, which depends on the grade of shake, size of the roof, roof complexity, location, and labor. Although the initial expense is stiffer than that of asphalt shingles, the natural beauty, good insulation, and long life make cedar shake a long-term investment that adds value to the home as well as appearance. When well-installed and maintained, a cedar shake roof will secure your house for decades and have the benefit of giving it a sleek, classic appearance. Knowing all the factors of costs is useful in making an informed decision before undertaking your roofing project.

FAQs

Are cedar shake roofs more expensive than asphalt shingles?

Yes. Cedar shakes cost significantly more upfront but offer better durability, insulation, and curb appeal.

How long does a cedar shake roof last?

With proper maintenance, cedar shake roofs last 30–50 years, and premium grades can last even longer.

Do cedar shake roofs need regular maintenance?

Yes. Cedar requires periodic cleaning, moss removal, and protective treatments to prevent rot and extend its lifespan.