Cedar shake roofing cost factors.
If you’re considering cedar shakes or shingles, a few other cost factors may influence your decision. Let's take a look.
Roof size.
The size of your roof is one of the main cost factors for cedar shake roofs, determining the material and labor needed. A 1,000-square-foot roof can start at $17,410, on average, while a 3,000-square-foot roof can cost as much as $61,860, on average.
Removing the existing roof.
Roof replacement isn’t cheap. Your costs may increase or decrease depending on the type of roof that’s being removed. Typically, asphalt shingles are cheaper to remove than slate or tile.
Roof damage.
Roof repair can be an unexpected cost, regardless of whether you're replacing the roof. There may be damage missed by the initial inspection once the shingles or tiles have been removed that must be fixed before your new cedar roof can be installed. Design, slope and pitch.
All three of these often determine which type of cedar shake or shingle can be used. Cedar shakes are preferred for a steeply sloped roof, also known as a Mansard roof. The CSSB recommends a minimum slope of 4:12 for cedar shakes and 3:1 for cedar shingles. Grades and grains.
Cedar has two main types of grains — edge (or vertical) grain and flat grain. Typically, edge-grain shakes and shingles perform better than flat-grain. Usually, the higher the grade and the price, the longer your roof will last.
Protective treatments.
While cedar shakes and shingles come with factory-impregnated fire retardants, several other protective treatments are available that may raise the price of your cedar roof. UV inhibitors, water repellents and preservative treatments (if not factory impregnated) should be factored in to increase longevity.
Shingle and shake finishes.
The U.S. Department of Agriculture Forest Services describes several types of finishes for cedar roofing material. New cedar shakes and shingles can be stained or painted. Semi-transparent stains, solid-color stains and paint will change the aesthetic of the cedar wood and possibly increase the price. Chat with your contractor to find out. Maintenance and repair costs.
When choosing the right type of roofing material for your home, be sure you not only consider the installation costs – but also the ongoing repair and maintenance costs.
Wood roofing often requires more maintenance than other roofing materials. This includes regular roof cleanings, inspections to check for damage, annual applications of protective treatments, and immediate snow clearing to prevent mold and mildew.