How Much Does Cedar Siding Cost?
Cedar siding remains one of the most sought-after exterior cladding options for homeowners seeking natural beauty and timeless appeal. The cost of cedar siding installation typically ranges from $1,170 to $64,350, with most homeowners investing around $29,250 for a complete project. On average, cedar siding costs approximately $11.70 per square foot, making it a premium choice compared to vinyl and other alternatives. While cedar represents a significant investment, many homeowners consider it worthwhile due to its exceptional durability, environmental sustainability, and the natural aesthetic it provides to residential properties.
Understanding the full scope of cedar siding costs involves analyzing multiple factors that influence the final price. These variables include the type of cedar selected, the coverage area of your home, the installation method chosen, and the quality grade of the wood. Labor costs and regional variations also play substantial roles in determining your total investment. This comprehensive guide breaks down all cost components to help you make an informed decision about cedar siding for your home renovation project.
Cedar Siding Cost by Home Size
Cedar siding installation costs scale proportionally with the square footage of your home’s exterior walls. Below is a detailed breakdown showing material costs, labor expenses, and total installation costs for various home sizes:
| Square Footage | Materials | Labor Cost | Total Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| 100 | $895 | $275 | $1,170 |
| 500 | $4,475 | $1,375 | $5,850 |
| 1,000 | $8,950 | $2,750 | $11,700 |
| 1,500 | $13,425 | $4,125 | $17,550 |
| 2,000 | $17,900 | $5,500 | $23,400 |
| 2,500 | $22,375 | $6,875 | $29,250 |
| 3,000 | $26,850 | $8,250 | $35,100 |
| 3,500 | $31,325 | $9,625 | $40,950 |
| 4,000 | $35,800 | $11,000 | $46,800 |
| 4,500 | $40,275 | $12,375 | $52,650 |
| 5,000 | $44,750 | $13,750 | $58,500 |
| 5,500 | $49,225 | $15,125 | $64,350 |
Note: Cost data reflects 2025 estimates from Homewyse. Material costs typically account for approximately 76 percent of the total project cost, while labor represents 24 percent.
Major Cedar Siding Cost Factors
Several key variables significantly impact the final cost of your cedar siding installation. Understanding these factors allows homeowners to make strategic decisions that balance quality, aesthetics, and budget constraints.
Cedar Type and Varieties
Different cedar species offer varying price points and performance characteristics. Northern white cedar provides a balanced option with costs between $2.50 and $20 per square foot. Western red cedar, known for its rich color and durability, ranges from $2.50 to $30 per square foot. Eastern red cedar offers similar pricing at $2.50 to $30 per square foot and features natural insect resistance. Alaska yellow cedar represents a mid-range option at $5 to $12 per square foot, while Spanish cedar commands premium pricing between $6 and $15 per square foot.
| Cedar Type | Cost Range (per sq. ft.) |
|---|---|
| Northern white cedar | $2.50–$20 |
| Western red cedar | $2.50–$30 |
| Eastern red cedar | $2.50–$30 |
| Alaska yellow cedar | $5–$12 |
| Spanish cedar | $6–$15 |
Wood Grade Selection
Cedar siding comes in three primary quality grades that reflect appearance and durability. Knotty cedar features visible knots and natural grain patterns, offering the most affordable option at $2.50 to $5 per square foot. This grade delivers rustic charm and distinctive character. Mid-grade cedar strikes an excellent balance with tight knots and minor color variations, priced between $5 and $15 per square foot. This option provides sleek sophistication while maintaining visual interest. Premium cedar eliminates visible knots and offers consistent coloring, commanding prices from $10 to $30 per square foot for a refined, polished appearance.
| Wood Grade | Cost Range (per sq. ft.) |
|---|---|
| Knotty | $2.50–$5 |
| Mid-grade | $5–$15 |
| Premium | $10–$30 |
Lap and Installation Styles
The installation method you select significantly influences both appearance and installation labor. Bevel siding, a classic horizontal style, ranges from $3 to $15 per square foot. Board and batten styling, featuring alternating boards and battens, costs $4 to $18 per square foot. Channel rustic creates a distinctive shadow-line effect between planks, priced at $5 to $25 per square foot. Clapboard, the traditional overlapping board method, ranges from $3 to $15 per square foot. Dutch lap combines features of clapboard with beveled edges, costing $2.50 to $10 per square foot.
Additional specialty styles include log cabin siding at $8 to $30 per square foot, cedar shakes at $6 to $20 per square foot, sheet siding at $2.50 to $3 per square foot, cedar shingles at $2.50 to $20 per square foot, shiplap at $7 to $25 per square foot, and tongue and groove at $5 to $25 per square foot.
| Lap Style | Cost Range |
|---|---|
| Bevel | $3–$15 |
| Board and batten | $4–$18 |
| Channel rustic | $5–$25 |
| Clapboard | $3–$15 |
| Dutch lap | $2.50–$10 |
| Log | $8–$30 |
| Cedar shakes | $6–$20 |
| Sheet | $2.50–$3 |
| Cedar shingles | $2.50–$20 |
| Shiplap | $7–$25 |
| Tongue and groove | $5–$25 |
Cedar Siding Accessories and Add-Ons
Beyond the primary siding material, various complementary products enhance the aesthetics and functionality of your cedar installation. Cedar trim adds finishing touches around windows, doors, and transitions, costing $1.20 to $2.50 per square foot. Cedar fascia boards, which cover the ends of roof rafters, range from $3 to $6 per linear foot. Cedar soffit panels, installed under roof overhangs, cost $22 to $28 per linear foot. Cedar gutters represent a significant investment at $4,000 to $5,200 for a complete installed system, but they complement cedar siding beautifully and provide excellent drainage protection.
| Accessory | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| Cedar trim | $1.20–$2.50 per sq. ft. |
| Cedar fascia | $3–$6 per linear foot |
| Cedar soffit | $22–$28 per linear foot |
| Cedar gutters | $4,000–$5,200 installed |
Labor and Installation Costs
Labor represents approximately 24 percent of your total cedar siding project cost. Professional installation fees typically correlate with the complexity of your home’s architecture, the presence of existing siding to remove, and regional market rates. If your home features existing siding requiring removal, expect additional demolition and disposal costs. Labor for removing old siding generally ranges from $46 to $84 per hour. Wood siding can often be donated or repurposed, whereas vinyl and other materials must be handled through specialized recycling facilities, potentially increasing disposal expenses.
Cedar Siding Versus Other Materials
When evaluating cedar siding, comparing it to alternative materials helps contextualize the investment. Vinyl siding averages $12,252 for a complete installation, representing the most economical choice. Fiber cement and aluminum options cost around $14,649 each. Board and batten shiplap runs approximately $14,210, while stucco averages $19,320. Cedar siding, priced at an average of $23,400, falls in the premium category alongside brick veneer and stone veneer options. The higher initial investment in cedar reflects its superior natural aesthetics, environmental sustainability, and the prestige associated with this classic material.
Why Choose Cedar Siding?
Despite the premium pricing, cedar siding offers compelling advantages justifying the investment. The natural beauty of cedar provides timeless appeal that enhances property aesthetics and curb appeal. Cedar demonstrates genuine durability when properly maintained, offering 20 to 40 years of reliable performance. The material exhibits natural insect resistance due to its inherent oils and resins, reducing the need for chemical treatments. Cedar siding supports environmental sustainability through responsible forestry practices and its biodegradable nature. Additionally, cedar generally provides better resale value compared to less expensive siding alternatives, potentially recovering a portion of your investment through increased home value.
Cedar Siding Maintenance Considerations
Homeowners selecting cedar siding must commit to regular maintenance to preserve its appearance and longevity. Cedar requires periodic painting or staining every 3 to 5 years to protect against weathering and color fading. Caulking seams and joints prevents moisture infiltration that could lead to rot. Regular cleaning removes dirt, algae, and mildew that accumulate over time. In regions with high humidity or significant rainfall, cedar demands more frequent attention. Some homeowners find the maintenance requirements outweigh the aesthetic benefits, making alternative materials more practical for their lifestyle and budget considerations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the average cost of cedar siding per square foot?
A: Cedar siding averages approximately $11.70 per square foot, though actual costs range from $2.50 to $30 per square foot depending on cedar type, wood grade, and installation style selected.
Q: How much should I budget for a complete cedar siding installation?
A: Most homeowners spend around $29,250 for a complete cedar siding project. However, costs range from $1,170 on the low end to $64,350 on the high end, depending on home size and material selections.
Q: Does cedar siding require more maintenance than other materials?
A: Yes, cedar siding requires regular maintenance including painting, staining, and caulking every 3 to 5 years to protect against weathering and maintain its appearance.
Q: What cedar type should I choose for best value?
A: Northern white cedar and Alaska yellow cedar offer good value at $2.50 to $20 per square foot, while Western red cedar provides durability at $2.50 to $30 per square foot.
Q: Can I install cedar siding over existing siding?
A: While possible in some cases, most professionals recommend removing existing siding first. Removal costs range from $46 to $84 per hour, but ensures proper installation and prevents moisture issues.
Q: How long does cedar siding last?
A: Properly maintained cedar siding typically lasts 20 to 40 years, with longevity depending on climate conditions, maintenance frequency, and the specific cedar type selected.
Q: What labor percentage should I expect in my total project cost?
A: Labor typically represents approximately 24 percent of your total cedar siding project cost, with materials comprising the remaining 76 percent.
Q: Are cedar gutters worth the additional investment?
A: Cedar gutters cost $4,000 to $5,200 installed and complement cedar siding aesthetically while providing excellent drainage protection and durability.
References
- How Much Does Cedar Siding Cost? (2025 Guide) — This Old House. 2025. https://www.thisoldhouse.com/siding/cedar-siding-cost
- How Much Does It Cost to Install Cedar Shake Siding? — Fixr. 2025. https://www.fixr.com/costs/cedar-siding-installation
- Siding Replacement Cost (2025 Pricing) — This Old House. 2025. https://www.thisoldhouse.com/siding/siding-replacement-cost