Updated: March 20, 2026
Written by Laura Madrigal
Nieves Martinez is a writer and editor at Fixr.com, specializing in home improvement and construction content. With over five years of experience and a Master's degree in Digital Marketing, she collaborates with industry professionals to create clear, carefully reviewed cost guides and renovation resources that help homeowners make informed remodeling decisions.
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Cedar siding costs a national average of $18,000 for a standard 2,000 sq. ft. home, with most homeowners spending between $10,000 and $32,000. This range reflects differences in wood species, siding style, board grade, and regional labor rates, all of which can significantly shift the final price.
Cedar remains one of the most popular natural wood siding options because it combines curb appeal with real performance. It insulates better than vinyl, resists insects naturally, and can last 30 to 50 years with proper maintenance, making it a long-term investment in your home's protection and value.
Cedar Siding Cost
Cedar Siding Cost Factors
Several variables drive the final price of a cedar siding project. House size is the most straightforward: more wall area means more material and labor. But species, style, and grade also create significant cost variation, even for the same home size.
Cedar Siding Cost per Square Foot
Cedar siding costs between $5 and $16 per sq. ft. installed on average, depending on style, species, and grade. For a 2,000 sq. ft. home, that means total project costs between $10,000 and $32,000.
House Size (sq. ft.) | Estimated Wall Area | Average Cost Installed |
1,000 | 1,200 sq.ft. | $6,000 – $19,200 |
1,500 | 1,600 sq.ft. | $7,500 – $24,000 |
2,000 | 2,000 sq.ft. | $10,000 – $32,000 |
2,500 | 2,400 sq.ft. | $12,000 – $38,400 |
3,000 | 2,800 sq.ft. | $14,000 – $44,800 |
Cedar Siding Cost by Style
The style of cedar siding affects both material costs and installation labor. Simpler profiles like clapboard install faster and generate less waste, while individual-piece styles like shakes and shingles require more hands-on labor per square foot. Vertical installation styles add a cost of $3 to $4 per sq. ft. over horizontal installation due to the need for additional blocking and more complex drainage management.
Style | Installed Cost (per sq. ft.) | Installation Difficulty |
Shingles | $2.50 – $20 | High |
Clapboard / bevel | $3 – $15 | Low |
$3 – $20 | Medium | |
Tongue and groove | $5 – $25 | Medium |
Shiplap | $5 – $25 | Medium |
Shakes | $6 – $20 | High |
Log siding | $8 – $30 | Very high |
Shingles
Cedar shingles cost between $2.50 and $20 per sq.ft. installed. Unlike shakes, shingles are sawn on both faces for a smoother, more uniform appearance. They're applied individually in overlapping courses, which is labor-intensive but produces a refined, classic New England aesthetic. Their thinner profile makes them lighter than shakes, though installation time and skill requirements remain high.
Clapboard
Clapboard (also called bevel siding) is the most common cedar style, running from $3 to $15 per sq.ft. installed. Boards are cut with a wedge-shaped profile and installed in horizontal overlapping rows. Its straightforward installation keeps labor costs low, making it the go-to choice for budget-conscious homeowners who still want natural wood character.
Board and batten
Board and batten cedar costs between $3 and $20 per square foot installed. Wide vertical boards are fastened first, then narrower "batten" strips cover the seams. It installs faster than individual-piece styles and gives homes a bold, rustic, or contemporary farmhouse look. Vertical orientation requires careful attention to drainage and proper gapping at the base to prevent moisture wicking.
Tongue and groove
Tongue and groove cedar runs $5 to $25 per sq.ft. installed. Each board has a protruding tongue on one edge and a corresponding groove on the other, locking them tightly together. This style is commonly used for vertical applications and covered porches. The interlocking profile minimizes gaps, improving weather resistance, but the precision required pushes installation complexity into the medium-high range.
Shiplap
Shiplap cedar siding costs $5 to $25 per sq. ft. installed. Boards have rabbeted edges that overlap flush, creating a tighter profile than clapboard with a distinctive shadow line. It's popular in both modern farmhouse and contemporary designs. The interlocking fit requires precise alignment, adding slightly more labor time than standard lap siding.
Shakes
Cedar shakes cost $6 to $20 per square foot installed. They are thick, hand-split pieces with a rough, textured face that gives exteriors a natural, rustic appearance. Because each shake is installed individually, labor hours are significantly higher than clapboard. Shakes are also heavier and may require additional structural considerations on some homes.
Log siding
Log siding averages $8 to $30 per sq.ft. installed and carries the highest installation complexity of any cedar style. Half-log or D-log profiles are milled to mimic the look of a full log cabin while applying over a standard framed wall. Because the profiles are heavy, irregular, and require precise fitting at corners and openings, installation demands specialized experience. Most general siding contractors won't take on log siding work.
Cedar Siding Cost by Wood Species
Species is one of the biggest material cost variables for cedar siding. Western Red Cedar is by far the most widely available and most affordable option. Specialty species like Alaskan Yellow Cedar or Spanish Cedar can triple the material cost due to limited supply and shipping from their origin regions.
Species | Material Cost (per sq. ft.) |
Northern white cedar | $2.50 – $4.50 |
Western red cedar | $3 – $5 |
Eastern red cedar | $5 – $8 |
Spanish cedar | $6 – $10 |
Alaskan yellow cedar | $9 – $11 |
Western Red Cedar is the dominant choice for most U.S. homeowners. It grows abundantly in the Pacific Northwest, keeping prices reasonable, and its natural oils provide built-in resistance to insects, rot, and moisture without chemical treatment.
Northern White Cedar is lighter and slightly less dense than Western Red, making it easier to work with. It's most cost-effective in the Northeast where it grows natively. Outside that region, shipping costs can erode its price advantage.
Eastern Red Cedar is a fully domestic species with stable pricing and solid performance. It's a practical middle-ground option for homeowners in the South and Midwest seeking to avoid import tariff exposure.
Spanish Cedar is not a true cedar but carries similar aromatic properties and excellent moisture resistance. It's imported from Central and South America, which drives up its price. Best suited for humid climates where moisture resistance is a priority.
Alaskan Yellow Cedar is among the most durable softwoods available, and its extreme density makes it highly resistant to rot and insect damage. It has a premium price due to limited harvest areas and high demand from marine and specialty construction markets.
Cedar Siding Cost by Grade
Cedar siding is sold in several grade tiers that reflect the presence of knots, color variation, and grain consistency. The scarcity of old-growth timber has widened the price gap between grades in 2026, making "clear" cedar a luxury material in the current market.
Grade | Material Cost (per sq. ft.) | Description |
Knotty / rustic | $2.50 – $8 | Visible knots and natural imperfections |
Mid-grade | $5 – $15 | Tight knots; minor color variation; good cost/durability balance |
Premium / clear | $10 – $30 | No knots; consistent vertical grain; minimal warping; highest durability |
Labor Cost to Install Cedar Siding
Labor for cedar siding installation typically ranges from $1.30 to $6 per sq. ft. for general installation, depending on the style, home complexity, and regional labor market. Labor commonly makes up 15%–40% of the total project cost.
Contractors generally charge by the square foot for siding installation rather than by the hour. Factors that increase labor costs include multi-story homes (requiring scaffolding rental), homes with many corners and gables, intricate siding profiles like shakes or shingles, and the need to remove and dispose of existing siding before installation begins.
Additional Considerations and Costs
The base cost of cedar siding materials and installation is rarely the final number on your invoice. Most projects include several additional line items like the removal of old siding, finishing, permits, trim work, and prep. Budgeting for these extras upfront prevents unpleasant surprises mid-project.
Removal of existing siding and disposal: Standard vinyl or wood lap removal sits at the low end; stucco and fiber cement cost more due to specialty tools and heavier debris. For a 2,000 sq. ft. home, budget $1,000 to $2,500 total.
Staining and painting: Finishing cedar is not optional, as unfinished wood will gray and degrade within a few years. Semi-transparent oil-based stains are the most popular choice, preserving the wood grain while sealing against moisture and UV damage. Staining or painting adds $1 to $6 per square foot.
Permits and fees: Most municipalities require a permit for full siding replacement, which adds between $150 and $1,500 to your total. Your contractor should pull it on your behalf.
Trim, fascia, and soffit: Corner boards, window casings, and frieze boards all add up. Cedar trim is commonly used to match the siding; PVC trim is a lower-maintenance alternative.
Prep work: Installing house wrap, repairing sheathing, and flashing around windows and doors are essential moisture-management steps that should never be skipped.
Maintenance: Plan for annual cleaning, resealing every 3–5 years, and a complete restaining or repainting every 4–6 years.
Cedar Siding Repair Cost vs. Replacement
Repairing cedar siding makes sense when damage is confined to a small area, typically less than 10% of the total surface. A contractor can replace individual boards, re-caulk gaps, and spot-treat any rot for $300 to $2,500, extending the siding's life by another 5–15 years if the rest of the surface is structurally sound.
Full replacement becomes the smarter investment when damage is widespread, when the existing siding is over 25–30 years old, or when you're planning a renovation that warrants a cohesive new exterior. Replacing aging, badly weathered cedar with new material also gives you the opportunity to upgrade to a better grade, add proper weather barrier protection, and update the style all of which add resale value.
Repair | Replacement | |
Cost | $300–$2,500 | $6,000–$60,000+ |
Best for | Localized rot, minor cracks, a few damaged boards | Widespread damage, aging siding, full renovation |
Lifespan added | 5–15 years | 30–50 years |
Disruption | Low | High |
DIY vs. Professional Installation
Installing cedar siding yourself can save 15%–40% of the total project cost by eliminating labor charges. However, cedar installation requires accurate measurement, precise cutting, and a solid understanding of moisture management, including proper house wrap installation, flashing, and gapping for expansion.
Most homeowners with intermediate carpentry experience can handle clapboard or board and batten on a single-story home. Shakes, shingles, and tongue and groove are more technically demanding and are not ideal for first-time siders. Multi-story homes introduce fall risk and scaffolding costs that erode the DIY savings advantage. A licensed contractor also provides a labor warranty and handles permitting, which is worth the premium for most homeowners.
DIY | Professional | |
Average cost savings | 15%–40% | — |
Skill level required | Intermediate–Advanced | Licensed contractor |
Tools required | Circular saw, nailer, level, scaffolding | Full contractor toolkit |
Permit handling | Homeowner responsible | Contractor typically pulls permits |
Warranty | None | Often 1–5 years on labor |
Is Cedar Siding Worth It?
Cedar siding earns its premium price for several practical reasons beyond aesthetics.
Natural durability. Cedar's natural oils provide genuine resistance to insects and rot without chemical treatment, a durability advantage over synthetic materials.
Better thermal insulation. Cedar's cellular structure delivers better insulation than vinyl or fiber cement, helping reduce heating and cooling costs.
Increased listing prices. For high-end properties, authentic wood cladding can increase listing prices over homes with synthetic siding.
Long-term value. With consistent maintenance, cedar siding is a high-reward investment for homeowners focused on traditional aesthetics, sustainability, and long-term property value.
How to Save Money on Cedar Siding Installation
Planning smart from the start is the most effective way to reduce cedar siding costs without sacrificing quality.
Choose Western Red Cedar over specialty species. It's widely available, performs excellently, and costs significantly less than Alaskan Yellow or Spanish Cedar. Unless you have a specific performance need, Western Red is the practical choice for most U.S. climates.
Select knotty or mid-grade boards. For stained finishes, especially dark stains, knots often add character rather than detract from the look, making the visual difference minimal.
Get at least three contractor bids. Labor rates for siding installation vary widely even within the same market. Verify each contractor's license and insurance before signing.
Combine with other exterior work. If you're also replacing windows, painting trim, or repairing fascia, bundling those projects with your siding installation reduces mobilization costs and may earn a discount on total labor.
Time your project for the off-season. Siding contractors in most regions are less busy in late fall and winter. Scheduling during slower periods can result in lower labor rates and faster project timelines.
Cedar Siding FAQ
The main downsides are cost and maintenance. Cedar costs significantly more upfront than vinyl or fiber cement and requires re-staining or repainting every 3–5 years to prevent cracking, checking, and rot. It's also more susceptible to moisture damage if the finish is neglected or if installation details like flashing and caulking are done incorrectly. In regions with extreme humidity or where cedar isn't locally available, both material and maintenance costs rise further.
The most effective protection for cedar siding is a penetrating, semi-transparent oil-based stain, which soaks into the wood fibers rather than forming a surface film. Water-repellent preservatives and solid-color stains are also widely used. Whatever finish you choose, the key is consistent reapplication every 3–5 years.
Yes, cedar siding can be painted, and it holds paint well when properly primed. Use a high-quality exterior latex primer first to seal the wood's natural tannins, which can bleed through and discolor paint, then apply two coats of exterior latex paint. Paint provides excellent UV and moisture protection but requires more prep work at recoat time than stain, as peeling or flaking paint must be fully removed before repainting. Smooth-sawn cedar takes paint better than rough-sawn or textured profiles.
Cedar siding is typically attached using hot-dipped galvanized, stainless steel, or aluminum nails, never standard steel, which will rust and stain the wood. Clapboard and lap styles are blind-nailed through the top of each board, while board and batten and tongue and groove can be face-nailed.