Cedar Shake · 2026 Pricing
Cedar shake roof cost calculator
Natural wood character, 30-year lifespan, and a premium look — but also the most maintenance-intensive roof you can install, and the most fire-sensitive.
Typical 2026 ranges
- Cedar shake (hand-split): $900–$1750 per square (installed)
- Lifespan: 30 years (with proper maintenance).
- Vs. architectural shingles: ~2x more, premium curb appeal, periodic treatment required.
Shake vs. shingle — and why the grade matters more than either
- Cedar shake:Hand-split, textured, irregular. Premium rustic look. Thicker (3/4″ butt).
- Cedar shingle:Sawn smooth, uniform. Cleaner look. Thinner (3/8″ butt). ~15–20% cheaper than shake.
- Grade matters more than either choice: Number 1 Blue Label (100% heartwood, edge grain) vs. Number 2 Red Label. Blue Label lasts ~30% longer but costs ~40% more.
Fire — the thing HOAs and insurers worry about
Untreated cedar is Class C fire-rated (the lowest). In wildfire zones, fire-treated (“CertiGrade” Class B) or pressure-treated Class A cedar is required, and many WUI zones (California, parts of Colorado) don't allow cedar at all. Treatment adds 25–40% to material cost. Check your local code and insurance policy before signing.
Maintenance — cedar isn't install-and-forget
Plan to clean moss/debris annually and re-treat the shakes every 5–7 years ($1,000–$3,000 per treatment). Skip this and the 30-year lifespan drops to 15. In high-moisture climates (Pacific Northwest, Southeast) cedar is a commitment.
Cedar vs. synthetic shake — the quiet upgrade
Composite/polymer shake products (DaVinci, Brava, F-Wave) replicate the cedar look, carry Class A fire rating by default, need zero maintenance, and cost ~1x as much. If you love the look but not the upkeep, this is often the better buy.