If you’re considering a siding project for your home, cedar shake siding might be an appealing option. This rustic, natural-looking siding material has been a popular choice for decades, and for good reason. Cedar wood is durable, attractive, and resistant to weather and pests.
But before you commit to cedar shake siding, you need to know the cost. In this article, we’ll discuss everything you need to know about cedar shingle siding costs, including installation costs, alternatives to cedar, and factors that can affect the final price.
What is Cedar Shake Siding?
Cedar shake siding is a type of wood siding that is made from cedar shingles or shakes. Cedar shingles are thin, tapered pieces of wood that are sawn from cedar logs. Cedar shakes are thicker, rougher pieces of wood that are split from the logs by hand.
Both cedar shingles and shakes are used to create cedar shake siding. This type of siding is prized for its natural, rustic look, and is often used on homes in rural or wooded areas.
Cedar Shake Siding Cost: How Much Does Cedar Shake Siding Cost?
The cost of cedar shake siding varies depending on a number of factors. Some of the main factors that can affect the cost of cedar shake siding include:
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The size of your home: The larger your home, the more siding you’ll need, which will increase the cost.
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The type of cedar shake siding: Cedar shingles are typically less expensive than cedar shakes, so choosing shingles over shakes can help reduce the cost.
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The quality of the cedar wood: Higher-quality cedar wood (Pressure Treated Wood) will be more expensive, but it will also be more durable and long-lasting.
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The cost of installation: Professional installation will add to the total cost of your cedar shake siding project.
On average, you can expect to pay between $6 and $10 per square foot for cedar shake siding. This includes the cost of the siding materials and professional installation.
For example, if you have a 2,000-square-foot home and want to install cedar shake siding, you can expect to pay between $12,000 and $20,000 for the project.
Other Siding Materials: Alternatives to Cedar Shake Siding
If the cost of cedar shake siding is too high for your budget, there are other siding materials you can consider. Vinyl siding, for example, is a popular and affordable option. Vinyl siding costs between $3 and $7 per square foot, making it significantly less expensive than cedar shake siding.
Shingle siding is another alternative to cedar shake siding. This type of siding is made from a variety of materials, including fiber cement, aluminum, and vinyl. Shingle siding costs between $4 and $8 per square foot, making it more affordable than cedar shake siding.
However, it’s important to note that these alternatives may not offer the same natural, rustic look as cedar shake siding. If you’re set on the look of cedar shake siding, you may need to adjust your budget or explore financing options to make it work.
Cedar Shingle Siding Installation Cost
In addition to the cost of the siding materials, you’ll also need to factor in the cost of installation. Cedar shake siding installation can be a complex and time-consuming process, so it’s strongly recommended that you hire a professional siding contractor to handle the job.
The cost of installation will vary depending on a number of factors, including the size of your home, the quality of the cedar wood, and the complexity of the installation process. On average, you can expect to pay between $2 and $4 per square foot for professional installation of cedar shake siding.
For example, if you have a 2,000-square-foot home and want to have cedar shake siding professionally installed, you can expect to pay between $4,000 and $8,000 for installation.
It’s important to note that the installation cost may not include additional expenses such as removing old siding or preparing the surface of your home for the new siding. Be sure to discuss these details with your siding contractor to get an accurate estimate of the total cost of your siding project.
Factors that Can Affect Cedar Shake Siding Cost
There are several factors that can affect the final cost of your cedar shake siding project. Some of these factors include:
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The size and complexity of your home: If your home has unique features such as gables or dormers, it may require more siding and more intricate installation techniques, which can increase the cost.
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The condition of your old siding: If you have old siding that needs to be removed, this will add to the cost of your project.
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The quality of the cedar wood: Higher-quality cedar wood (Redwood) will be more expensive, but it will also be more durable and long-lasting.
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The weather: If you live in an area with extreme weather conditions, such as high winds or heavy rain, this may affect the cost of installation.
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The potential for warping: Cedarwood is a natural material that can warp or twist over time. If your home is in an area with high humidity or frequent rain, this may affect the cost of your cedar shake siding project.
Calculating the Average Cost to Install Cedar Shake Siding
To calculate the average cost to install cedar shake siding on your home, you can use a siding cost calculator. These online tools take into account factors such as the size of your home, the type of siding you want, and the cost of professional installation.
Keep in mind that these calculators are only estimates, and the actual cost of your project may vary depending on factors such as the condition of your old siding and the quality of the cedar wood you choose.
Final Thoughts on Cedar Shake Siding Cost
Cedar shake siding can be a beautiful and durable addition to your home, but it’s important to be aware of the cost before you commit to a siding project. On average, you can expect to pay between $6 and $10 per square foot for cedar shake siding, including the cost of materials and professional installation.
If the cost of cedar shake siding is too high for your budget, there are cedar alternative as well as alternative for siding materials you can consider, such as vinyl or shingle siding. However, these alternatives may not offer the same natural, rustic look as cedar shake siding.
When planning your siding project, be sure to factor in the cost of professional installation, as well as any additional expenses such as removing old siding or preparing the surface of your home for the new siding.
Overall, cedar shake siding can be a worthwhile investment in your home’s curb appeal and long-term durability. With careful planning and budgeting, you can achieve the look you want without breaking the bank.
