Cedar shake siding adds charm and weather resistance to homes, but removing it can be a significant project. This article outlines the factors influencing the price, typical cost ranges, and practical guidance to help homeowners estimate and budget for cedar shake removal. The discussion covers labor, disposal, accessibility, and common hidden costs, with concrete examples to aid in planning.
What Affects The Cost Of Removing Cedar Shake Siding
The price to remove cedar shake siding hinges on several core factors. Labor intensity increases with the number of layers, the condition of the boards, and the presence of fasteners or nails that must be removed carefully to protect underlying sheathing. Accessibility matters; tight eaves, steep roofs, and limited workspace raise labor time. Disposal expenses depend on local landfill or recycling fees and whether the contractor uses dumpsters or haul-away services. Additional costs may include repairing any damaged underlying siding, replacing flashing, and cleaning up debris. Lead paint or hazardous material concerns can add cost in older homes.
Key cost drivers include: removal difficulty, access and safety equipment, disposal and landfill charges, surface prep requirements, and any necessary repairs after removal. Clear quotes should itemize these elements to avoid surprises later.
Typical Cost Range For Cedar Shake Siding Removal
Residential cedar shake removal generally falls in a broad range per square foot. Typical rates include labor, basic debris haul-away, and basic site clean-up. In many markets, homeowners see a range of approximately $1.50 to $4.50 per square foot, depending on the factors described above. Labor-only rates can be closer to $1.00 to $2.50 per square foot for straightforward, accessible jobs, while full-service removal with disposal and cleanup often lands toward $3.00 to $4.50 per square foot or higher in challenging conditions or high-cost regions.
Disposal charges are a common component of the total. Some facilities charge by the ton, others by cubic yards or by the weight of debris. If the siding is in excellent condition and can be recycled, disposal fees may be reduced; however, most cedar shake debris ends up in landfills or transfer stations.
Cost By Size Of Home: Practical Examples
Calculating cost based on the home’s wall area gives a more actionable estimate. The following examples assume typical single-story or compact two-story homes with standard gable ends and average accessibility. All figures are rough estimates and can vary by region and contractor.
| Project Size (Approx. Square Feet Of Siding) | Low Range | Mid Range | High Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1,000 sq ft | $1,500 | $2,500 | $4,500 |
| 1,500 sq ft | $2,250 | $3,750 | $6,750 |
| 2,000 sq ft | $3,000 | $5,000 | $9,000 |
These ranges include labor, basic debris removal, and disposal. For homes with multiple layers of cedar, tricky rooflines, or limited access, expect costs toward the higher end. Conversely, homes with easy access and minimal damage typically fall toward the lower end.
Additional Expenses To Consider
Beyond the basic removal price, several ancillary costs can affect the final bill. Weather and seasonal demand can drive labor rates up. If the project reveals damaged sheathing, rot, or water intrusion, repairs may be necessary before or after removal, adding material and labor costs. If a replacement siding project is planned, bundled services may provide savings, but could also extend project duration and complexity.
- Disposal and dumping fees: Varies by location; some facilities charge by weight.
- Dumpster rental: Often included in the per-square-foot price, but long-term rentals accrue daily fees.
- Protection and containment: Tarps, plastic sheeting, and edge protection to minimize collateral damage.
- Lead paint or hazardous materials: If present, require abatement procedures and disposal, increasing costs.
- Underlayment or sheathing repairs: Replacement or repair of damaged plywood or OSB.
- Final cleanup and disposal of debris: Thorough site restoration may incur additional labor.
DIY Considerations And Safety
Removing cedar shake siding is physically demanding and involves working on ladders or roofs. DIY is generally not recommended for multi-story homes or steep pitches due to fall hazards and the risk of accidentally damaging underlying structures. Professional crews bring experience with proper tool selection, nail removal, surface protection, and disposal handling, which can prevent costly mistakes and safety incidents. Homeowners who choose to proceed themselves should obtain local permit requirements and be prepared for a methodical, slower process with proper safety gear.
Getting Accurate Quotes
To obtain reliable estimates, homeowners should request detailed quotes that break out each cost element. When evaluating bids, consider:
- Labor rates and estimated hours based on square footage and roof pitch.
- Disposal method, including dumpster rental and landfill fees.
- Protective measures and site cleanup plans.
- Any anticipated repairs to underlayment or gutter systems.
- Timeline and potential downtime or staging requirements.
Ask contractors for references and past project photos. A site visit may be necessary for an accurate assessment, especially if the siding has multiple layers or hidden damage. Compare several bids to ensure the price reflects the scope and quality of work promised.
Replacements And Alternatives To Removal
In some cases, homeowners may consider alternatives to full removal. Options include pressure washing and treating cedar to extend its life, partial removal for sections with rot, or upgrading to a new siding system without fully removing the cedar. If the goal is improved energy efficiency or curb appeal, integrating insulation upgrades or adding a new outer layer might influence cost and performance. Contractors can provide a comparative analysis of keeping versus removing cedar, including long-term maintenance costs and potential resale impact.
Quick Reference: Key Numbers At A Glance
Typical cost per square foot: $1.50–$4.50 (removal, debris disposal, and cleanup)
Labor considerations: Hourly rates commonly range from $40 to $65 per hour for crew members, with crew size affecting total hours
Size-based estimates: 1,000–2,000 sq ft projects commonly range from $1,500 to $9,000 depending on conditions
Hidden costs: Damage repair, lead paint considerations, and disposal fees can significantly affect final price