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2026 project cost

Install Cedar Shake Roof Cost

By Muhammad Tayyab Updated Published

$11,455 to $19,263 for 1,200 sq ft, or about $9.55–$16.05 per sq ft. That covers 6 material line items and about 54 labor hours, plus a permit.

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sq ft

Estimated total

$11,455 – $19,263

materials + labor + permit

Materials—
Labor—
Per sq ft—

What the materials cost

What you are paying for
Cost composition for install cedar shake roof Materials $12,243, 64 percent. Labor $6,520, 34 percent. Permit $500, 3 percent
  • Materials 64% · $12,243
  • Labor 34% · $6,520
  • Permit 3% · $500

Quantities for 1,200 sq ft, including a 18% waste allowance.

Material Qty Cost
Cedar Shakes 14.16 SQ $4,248 – $8,496
36-in x 75-ft 200-sq ft Rubber Roof Underlayment 7.08 EA $1,258 – $1,776
Ridge Cap Shakes 70.8 LF $566 – $1,133
Drip Edge 141.6 LF $283 – $637
36-in x 144-ft 432-sq ft Felt Roof Underlayment 3.54 EA $89 – $142
1-1/2-in Smooth Shank Electro-galvanized Roofing Nails 174 -Per Box 8.26 EA $42 – $59

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How long it takes

  1. 1

    Remove Old Roofing & Inspect Deck 12-16 hours

    Strip existing roofing materials, remove nails, and inspect the roof deck for damage. Repair or replace any compromised sheathing to ensure a solid base in your area.

  2. 2

    Install Underlayment & Flashing 8-12 hours

    Lay down roofing felt or synthetic underlayment, and install all necessary flashing around valleys, chimneys, and vents to protect against moisture intrusion in your area.

  3. 3

    Install Cedar Shakes 60-64 hours

    Begin at the eaves and work upward, nailing cedar shakes in overlapping rows. Maintain proper spacing and stagger joints for optimal water shedding and appearance in your area.

  4. 4

    Ridge Cap & Final Sealing 8-10 hours

    Install ridge caps along roof peaks, secure all exposed fasteners, and apply sealant where needed. Inspect the entire roof to ensure weatherproofing and compliance with your area codes.

Frequently asked questions

How much does it cost to install a cedar shake roof?

$11,455 to $19,263 for 1,200 sq ft. That splits into $6,486 to $12,243 in materials, $4,820 to $6,520 in labor across 54 hours, and $150 to $500 for the permit. Cedar is a material-led cost, so the shake grade moves the total more than the crew rate does.

Do I need a permit to install a cedar shake roof in your area?

Yes. $150 to $500 in your area, which is about 3% of what this job costs. The contractor normally pulls it and passes it through.

What drives the cost of installing a cedar shake roof the most?

Materials run about 64% of the total and labor 34%, with the permit at 3%. The two heaviest lines are cedar shakes and 200-sq ft rubber roof underlayment, the first reaching $8,496 on its own. Labor lands around $6,520 at a billed crew rate, which is the part that moves most by state.

What are the benefits of installing a cedar shake roof?

Cedar shake roofs offer a natural and aesthetically pleasing appearance that enhances the curb appeal of any home. They also provide excellent insulation properties, helping to maintain a comfortable indoor temperature.

How long does a cedar shake roof last in your area?

The longest stretch is install cedar shakes at 60-64 hours, with remove old roofing & inspect deck adding 12-16 hours. Across all 4 stages that is installing a cedar shake roof start to finish.

What maintenance is required for a cedar shake roof?

Regular maintenance for a cedar shake roof includes cleaning debris, treating for moss and mildew, and replacing damaged shakes. Proper maintenance in your area can extend the roof's lifespan and maintain its appearance.

Are cedar shake roofs environmentally friendly?

Cedar shake roofs are considered environmentally friendly as they are made from a renewable resource. Additionally, they are biodegradable and can be recycled at the end of their life cycle.

Why order more material than the measured area?

A 18% waste allowance is built in. On this job that is the difference between 120 and 142 lf of drip edge.

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