Cedar Shake Roof Cost (2026)
A natural-wood roof with a look nothing synthetic quite matches. Cedar shakes weather to a silver-grey and suit cottage, craftsman and rustic homes — but they demand upkeep, carry fire-code restrictions in many areas, and cost well above asphalt.
Cedar Shake cost estimate
| Item | Estimated range |
|---|---|
| Cedar Shake — full roof (typical 1,800 sq ft) | $12,000 – $25,000 |
| Per roofing square (100 sq ft), installed | $700 – $1,300 |
Ranges are national estimates. Use the calculator for a figure adjusted to your roof size and city.
Where your money goes
For a typical $18,500 cedar shake roof, the bill breaks down roughly as below. Shares are typical industry splits and shift with contractor, roof complexity and region.
| Cost component | Share | Est. amount |
|---|---|---|
| Materials | 40% | $7,400 |
| Labor | 38% | $7,000 |
| Tear-off & disposal | 10% | $1,800 |
| Permits & overhead | 12% | $2,200 |
What drives the price
- Grade of cedar (premium vs. standard)
- Fire-retardant treatment
- Climate and maintenance needs
- Skilled shake installers
Pros
- Distinctive natural appearance
- Good insulator
- Ages to an attractive patina
Cons
- Needs regular maintenance and treatment
- Fire-code limits in many regions
- Susceptible to rot, mold and insects if neglected
Typical lifespan: 30–40 years
What the price usually includes
- Tear-off and disposal of the old roof
- New underlayment, plus ice-and-water shield where code requires it
- New flashing around chimneys, vents, skylights and valleys
- Ridge, soffit or attic ventilation as needed
- Full site cleanup and a magnetic nail sweep
- Permit and municipal inspection
- Manufacturer material warranty and contractor workmanship warranty
How to save on a cedar shake roof
- Get at least three itemized, written bids and compare them line by line
- Schedule in the off-season (late fall to early spring) when crews compete harder for work
- Choose quality architectural shingles over premium designer lines unless you need the look
- Ask about manufacturer rebates and low-rate financing promotions
- If a storm caused the damage, check whether your homeowners insurance covers replacement
- Keep the existing roof deck if it is sound — full deck replacement adds cost quickly
Get a tailored estimate in 30 seconds
Enter your roof size and city for a cost range specific to your home.
Frequently asked questions
How much does a cedar shake roof cost?
For a typical 1,800 sq ft roof, cedar shake runs about $12,000 to $25,000 installed, depending on your roof's size, pitch and complexity and on local labor rates.
How long does cedar shake last?
About 30–40 years with proper installation and maintenance.
What changes the price the most?
Roof size and pitch, tearing off the old roof, decking repairs, and your local labor market are the biggest swing factors.