How Much Does a Cedar Shake Roof Cost?

When it comes to roofing, many homeowners base their decision on specific desired attributes like durability, safety, energy efficiency, or aesthetic beauty. Among these, aesthetic beauty is often a significant deciding factor, and one of the most popular choices for achieving a charming, rustic look is cedar shake roofing. Cedar shake roofs offer a unique, natural elegance that many other roofing materials—such as asphalt, clay, slate, or concrete—cannot match.

Since cedar shake roofing is a widely popular choice for its style and appearance, many people wonder how much it costs. The price of a cedar shake roof depends on a variety of factors, so let’s explore everything you need to know about cedar shake roof pricing.

General Cost of Cedar Shake Roofing

On average, including both the tear-off of the old roof and the installation of the new roof, cedar shake roofing typically costs around $25 - $30 per square foot. 

This price is higher than other basic materials, such as asphalt shingles, because cedar shake installation requires specialized knowledge, additional labor, and more time. Cedar shakes are also a natural product, and premium wood grades can raise the price further. 

Factors That Affect the Price of Cedar Shake Roofing

Although the average cost of cedar shake roofing is about $25 - $30 per square foot, the final price can vary based on several factors:

Type and Grade of Cedar Shakes: Cedar shakes come in different grades, from standard to premium, which affects both quality and price.

• Roof Size and Complexity: The larger the roof or the more complex its design (steep pitches, valleys, dormers), the higher the cost due to increased labor and time.

• Number of Penetrations: Roof features like skylights, chimneys, and vents require roofers to work around these areas, increasing the cost.

• Decking Replacement: If the underlying roof decking needs to be replaced, this adds to the overall cost.

• Operating Costs and Dump Fees: These are additional expenses that vary by location and contractor.

For example, a steeply pitched roof or one with many roof penetrations will require more time, specialized equipment, and additional labor, all of which increase the total cost of installation. 

Different Grades of Cedar Shakes

The cost of a cedar shake roof is also influenced by the grade of the shakes you choose. There are three primary grades used for roofing:

1. Common Cedar Shakes

These are the least expensive, as they are cut from any part of the tree and may include lower-quality wood. Common shakes have a higher risk of splitting, warping, or buckling.

2. Select-Grade Cedar Shakes

These consist of about 80% straight-grain wood and 20% common-grade wood. They offer a balance of quality and price, with increased durability and longevity compared to common shakes.

3. 100% Straight-Grain Cedar Shakes

The highest-quality cedar shakes, made only from the best parts of the tree. These premium shakes are hand-selected and have the longest lifespan, provided they are properly maintained. However, they come with the highest cost and require regular sealant applications to prevent moisture damage, warping, and curling.

Overall Cost of Cedar Shake Roofing and a Superior Alternative

One key factor in the overall cost of a cedar shake roof is the lack of a materials warranty. Since cedar shakes are a natural product, they do not typically come with a materials warranty, which means homeowners only receive a workmanship warranty from their contractor. This makes choosing a highly qualified roofer critical, as the quality of the installation will determine the roof’s long-term performance.

For those seeking the look of cedar without the ongoing maintenance and lack of a materials warranty, synthetic cedar shake roofing offers an excellent alternative. Synthetic shakes mimic the appearance of natural cedar but provide superior durability and often come with extended or lifetime warranties.

CeDUR Shake: The Best Synthetic Cedar Shakes

If you want the natural beauty of real cedar shakes without the high maintenance, synthetic cedar shakes from CeDUR are an ideal solution. CeDUR shakes are molded from real cedar, offering the same aesthetic appeal while being made from durable, lightweight polyurethane. They are available in several colors, including Shiloh, Live Oak, Golden Cedar, and Walden, making it easy to find a style that complements your home.

Beyond their appearance, CeDUR shakes are designed to last a lifetime in many cases, with little more than occasional cleaning required. Unlike real cedar, CeDUR synthetic shakes are resistant to fire, impact, moisture, UV rays, rot, warping, and insect damage. Additionally, they come with a Class A Fire Rating and Class 4 Impact Resistance, making them a safer and more durable option than traditional wood shakes.

The Best Option for Cedar Shake Roofing

Cedar shake roofing offers a beautiful, rustic look that is hard to match with other materials. However, the cost of installation, regular maintenance, and lack of a materials warranty can make natural cedar shakes a costly investment over time.

For homeowners who want the appearance of cedar without the ongoing expenses, CeDUR’s synthetic cedar shakes provide an attractive, durable, and low-maintenance alternative. With a longer lifespan and better performance under harsh conditions, CeDUR shakes are the smart choice for a roofing solution that will last for decades.

If you're considering a cedar shake roof but want to avoid the maintenance and cost of natural wood, CeDUR's synthetic cedar shakes offer the perfect alternative. 

Contact us today to discuss your roofing project and discover the beauty and durability of CeDUR shakes.