Thinking about a cedar shake roof for your Colorado home? Many homeowners love cedar’s natural beauty, dramatic curb appeal, and energy‑saving insulation—but the first question on everyone’s mind is usually the price. In this guide, we’ll break down cedar shake roof cost factors, provide real‑world pricing data, and show you how to budget effectively for a cedar roofing project in Colorado’s extreme weather conditions.
Key Factors That Influence Cedar Shake Roof Cost in Colorado
Cedar shake roof cost in Colorado can vary depending on several key factors:
- Roof size and square footage – Larger roofs need more materials and labor, increasing total cost per square foot.
- Roof pitch and roof complexity – Steeper roofs, intricate valleys, dormers, and multiple roof penetrations raise installation costs.
- Existing roof removal – Tearing off old roofing materials, underlayment replacement, and decking replacement add labor costs.
- Cedar shake type – Premium shakes, medium shakes, and tapersawn shakes each have different materials cost.
- Natural wood vs. synthetic cedar shake roofing – Synthetic cedar roof products can have higher upfront cost but increased durability and lower maintenance.
- Underlayment and roof flashing upgrades – Colorado’s hail, snow, and wind require ice‑and‑water barriers, metal flashings, and breathable underlayments.
- Labor costs – Specialized equipment and skilled crews are required to install cedar shake roofs safely. Labor may range from $5 to $9 per square foot.
- Local regulations and permits – Some municipalities require Class A fire‑rated synthetic cedar or treated natural wood shingles.
Natural Cedar Shake vs. Synthetic Cedar Shake: Material Cost Comparison
| Cedar Roof Material | Average Cost (per sq. ft.)* | Lifespan | Maintenance Needs |
|---|---|---|---|
| Premium Natural Cedar Shakes | $8 – $12 | 25 – 35 years | Regular maintenance, occasional repairs |
| Treated Fire‑Resistant Cedar Shakes | $10 – $14 | 30 – 40 years | Moderate maintenance |
| Synthetic Cedar Shake Roofing | $12 – $16 | 40 – 50+ years | Minimal maintenance |
*Prices include materials only. Installation costs are additional.
Natural wood offers unmatched character, but synthetic cedar roofing materials deliver increased durability, fire resistance, and lower ongoing maintenance for Colorado homeowners.
Typical Price Ranges for Cedar Shake Roof Replacement
Most homeowners in Colorado spend between $20,000 and $48,000 on a full cedar shake roof replacement. For a typical 2,400‑square‑foot home (24 roofing squares), here’s a cost breakdown:
- Material cost: $9,600 – $19,200
- Labor costs: $12,000 – $21,600
- Disposal & additional materials: $1,200 – $2,400
- Total cost: $22,800 – $43,200
For a synthetic cedar roof of the same footprint, expect the total cost to start around $30,000 due to higher materials cost and specialized installation techniques.
How Installation Costs Add Up
Cedar shake installation requires extensive experience to function properly and prevent roof leaks:
- Tear‑off of old roof – Removing asphalt shingles or other materials, inspecting the roof deck, and replacing any damaged plywood.
- Underlayment replacement – Installing double‑layer felt or synthetic underlayment with ice‑and‑water shield in vulnerable areas.
- Starter rows and flashings – Metal drip edge, valley metal, and step flashing around walls, chimneys, and skylights.
- Hand‑nailing or pneumatic nailing cedar shakes – Ensuring correct spacing for expansion and ventilation.
- Hip and ridge caps – Premium shakes or pre‑bent synthetic accessories to protect vulnerable areas.
- Workmanship warranty – Reputable roofing contractors offer workmanship warranties for peace of mind.
Cedar Shake Roof vs. Other Common Roofing Materials in Colorado
| Roofing Material | Initial Cost (per sq. ft.) | Lifespan | Maintenance | Natural Beauty |
| Architectural Asphalt Shingles | $4 – $7 | 20 – 30 years | Moderate | Good |
| Metal Roof | $6 – $16 | 40 – 70 years | Minimal | Modern |
| Tile Roof | $9 – $20 | 50 – 100+ years | Low | Mediterranean |
| Cedar Shake Roof | $8 – $16 (materials) | 25 – 50 years | Regular (natural wood) / Minimal (synthetic) | Excellent |
Cedar shake roofs carry a higher cost than asphalt shingles but provide unrivaled natural wood aesthetics and better insulation properties. Synthetic cedar shakes offer an even longer lifespan with less maintenance, narrowing the lifetime cost gap.
Additional Cost Factors & Tips to Save Money
- Multiple quotes: Always request quotes from several roofing companies to ensure an accurate estimate and competitive pricing.
- Seasonal scheduling: Booking a roofing project in late fall or early spring can reduce labor costs.
- Bundle repairs: Combine roof flashing upgrades, gutter replacement, or solar panel installation to eliminate redundant labor costs.
- Insurance claim assistance: Storm damage to cedar shingles or roof leaks may qualify for homeowner’s insurance coverage.
- Preventive maintenance: Regular maintenance and timely repairs save money by extending the lifespan of your cedar roof.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the average cedar shake roof cost per square foot in Colorado? Expect an installed cost of $10 to $18 per square foot for natural cedar shakes and $14 to $22 per square foot for synthetic cedar shakes, depending on roof complexity and materials chosen.
How long does a cedar shake roof last? Premium natural cedar shakes last 25–35 years, while synthetic cedar shake roofing systems can exceed 40 years with minimal upkeep.
Does a cedar shake roof require special maintenance? Yes. Natural wood needs periodic cleaning, treatment, and replacement of warped shakes to prevent moss and moisture damage. Synthetic cedar roofs require minimal maintenance.
Can cedar shake roofs handle Colorado’s extreme weather? When installed by a reputable roofing contractor, cedar shake roofs perform well against snow, hail, and wind. Class A treated shakes or synthetic products improve fire resistance.
Will cedar shakes increase my home’s insurance cost? Some insurers charge higher premiums for untreated natural wood. Upgrading to impact‑resistant synthetic cedar or fire‑treated shakes may lower your rate.
Ready for a Cedar Shake Upgrade? Get Your Free Estimate
A cedar shake roof delivers unmatched natural beauty and insulation for Colorado homeowners. Whether you choose premium natural wood or advanced synthetic cedar products, BCZC Roofing & Exteriors provides professional installation backed by a workmanship warranty.
Book a free inspection with BCZC Roofing & Exteriors today to receive an accurate estimate for your cedar shake roof replacement. All roof replacements come with a complimentary upgrade to impact‑resistant shingles on any shingle areas of your roofing system, adding extra protection and potentially saving money on your insurance.
