Cedar Shake Roof Costs

On February 25, 2026 By newsroom Topic: Home Services

1. Installation Costs

Overall Cost Range: $6–$15 per square foot
Average Costs by Roof Size:

| Roof Size (sq. ft.) | Cost Range |
|--------------------------|-------------------------|
| 1,500 | $9,000–$22,500 |
| 2,000 | $12,000–$30,000 |
| 3,000 | $18,000–$45,000 |

2. Cedar Shake Grades

Your shake’s grade affects longevity and price:

| Grade | Cost (per sq. ft.) | Details |
|-----------------------|------------------------|----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|
| Common Grade | $5–$8 | Most affordable; may crack easier. |
| Select Grade | $6.50–$11 | 20–80% mix of straight and common shakes; some knots. |
| Straight Grain | $8–$15 | Premium grade; durable, flat, and less prone to curling. |

3. Key Cost Factors

Old Roof Removal: $1–$5 per sq. ft.
Underlayment: $1–$4 per sq. ft. (Felt or synthetic).
Flashing: $15–$25 per linear foot (essential for drainage).
Drip Edge: $1.50–$9 per linear foot (optional but recommended).
Weatherproofing: $2–$5 per sq. ft. (Wood-specific polyurethane sealants).
Permits: $400–$1,700 (varies by location).

4. Maintenance and Ongoing Costs

| Service | Cost Range |
|----------------------------|---------------------------|
| Shake Replacement | $365–$750 per repair |
| Annual Roof Inspection | $230 |
| Gutter Cleaning | $160 per visit |
| Regular Roof Cleaning | $0.20–$0.60 per sq. ft. |
| Deep Roof Cleaning | $0.50–$1 per sq. ft. |

5. Advantages of Cedar Shake Roofs

Durability: Lasts 30+ years with proper care.
Aesthetic: Rustic, natural charm for any home.
Insulation: Superior energy efficiency.
Eco-Friendly: Biodegradable and renewable material.

6. Cedar Shake vs. Shingles

| Feature | Cedar Shakes | Cedar Shingles |
|-------------------------|------------------------------------|----------------------------------|
| Thickness | 1/2 to 3/4 inches (hand-split) | 3/8 to 1/2 inches (machine-cut) |
| Durability | More durable; lasts longer | Less durable. |
| Price | Higher | Lower. |

7. DIY vs. Professional Installation

DIY Difficulty: High. Installing cedar shakes requires expertise to avoid leaks, water damage, or structural issues.
Professional Installation: Costs $6–$15 per sq. ft. in labor. Ensures safety and a long-lasting roof.

8. Money-Saving Tips

Opt for Select or Common Grades: Choose a lower grade if longevity is not a top concern.
Get Multiple Quotes: Compare at least three roofing contractors.
Schedule During Off-Season: Contractors may offer discounts during slower months.
Mix Materials: Use cedar as an accent rather than covering the entire roof.
Handle Cleanup: Offer to dispose of old roofing materials to reduce labor costs.

Cedar shake roofs combine beauty and resilience, making them a worthwhile investment for homeowners seeking rustic charm and durability!