Synthetic Cedar Shake Roofs Cost (2025)
Traditional cedar shake roofs may be more affordable, but they are also more dangerous—and many homeowners are starting to realize it.
As a result, many homeowners are starting to explore an entirely new option for their homes: synthetic cedar shake roofing.
Want to know how much a synthetic cedar shake roof costs? What impacts the costs of a synthetic cedar shake roof? And why are they a great option for your home?
We’ll tell you more down below.
Average Synthetic Shake Roof Cost in 2025
Synthetic cedar shake roofs typically cost about $300 to $1,600 per square (100 square feet) of materials, which means:
For a standard 1,500-square-foot roof, you can expect to pay between $4,500 and $24,000 for materials.
But when you factor in installation costs at around $200 to $500 per square, the total price for a synthetic shake roof can average to approximately $7,500 to $31,500—or more.
However, you should keep in mind that these numbers vary depending on a variety of factors, which we’ll talk about next.
9 Factors that Affect the Costs of Synthetic Cedar Roofing
Here are a few factors that will impact your synthetic cedar shake roofing costs:
1. Roof Size
One of the most significant factors affecting synthetic cedar shake roofing costs is the total size of the roof. Because roofing materials are priced per square feet and larger roofs require more materials, you should think of it this way:
The more square footage your roof has, the more expensive the synthetic cedar shake shingles will be.
2. Deconstruction
Before you can install synthetic cedar shakes, you have to remove the current roofing materials, which adds to the overall costs of the synthetic roof. Plus, depending on how much roofing material was used, if the old roofing materials need to be stripped and disposed of, you may have additional labor fees.
3. Material Quality
Not all synthetic shake materials are created the same way, which means, all synthetic materials are designed, colored, and engineered differently.
As a result, some materials are better than others, which is why you should always explore your options before deciding on which roofing material to select.
4. Permits
Most cities and municipalities also require permits for roofing projects. Although the costs of roofing permits may vary depending on your location—and some do not have them at all—it’s important to keep in mind. And here’s why:
The overall price of the permits is simply added on to the final synthetic cedar roofing costs.
5. Fire Rating
Synthetic cedar shakes come in varying levels of quality and fire ratings.
Premium synthetic shakes with Class A fire ratings or enhanced durability features—like the ones from CeDUR—may cost more than lower-tier options.
But while lower tier options may cost less up front, they are damaged more easily and are not usually considered for lower insurance premiums.
6. Insurance
Speaking of home insurance, this is another area that can impact the cost of synthetic cedar shingle roofing.
Just like how contractors sometimes adjust their liability insurance to protect against damages, homeowners may need to adjust their home insurance policies because of their home’s needs.
While some insurers offer discounts for synthetic cedar shakes, others may not—and some may not cover them at all.
7. Location
Geographic location is one of the biggest factors impacting the costs of synthetic cedar shake roofing.
Your location not only determines if you need a permit, but it also impacts the costs of installation. Typically, areas with higher costs of living tend, more intensive working conditions, and local construction demands.
8. Installation and Labor Costs
The skill level and experience of the roofing contractor also impacts the total cost of synthetic cedar shake roofing.
If you are looking for someone with years of experience who can perform high-quality installation in half the time, you should expect higher labor rates.
However, labor rates can also fluctuate based on demand, expertise, and regional differences.
It is also possible that a reputable contractor costs less depending on the time of year and workload.
9. Roof Complexity
Depending on the complexity of your roof, your roofing costs may also be more expensive.
For instance, roofs with chimneys, skylights, and plumbing stacks can make installation more difficult, which ultimately makes labor more expensive. This also includes the steepness of your roof and the varying angles of your home’s design.
Just remember: the roofs with the simplest designs—with the easiest home features to work with—are the homes with the cheapest installation costs and, therefore, total roofing costs.
How to Save on Synthetic Cedar Shake Roofing Costs
While synthetic cedar shake roofing is a long-term investment, there are smart ways to keep the overall costs of the synthetic materials in check. Here’s what you can do:
Buy in bulk and order all your materials at once—or ast your contractor to do so.
Schedule installations in the off-season so roofing companies charge less when demand is lower.
Check for manufacturer promotions for better financing.
Get multiple quotes so you can pick the most cost effective option.
CeDUR: The Best Synthetic Cedar Shake Roofing
Choosing the best synthetic cedar shake material isn’t just about price though. You should also want something that lasts for decades and protects your home, right? Here’s why CeDUR is your best option:
Unmatched Realism
CeDUR shakes are engineered to replicate the grain and texture of traditional cedar shakes, which are authentic. Unlike other synthetic options, they don’t look plastic, flat, or fake.
Fire-Resistant for Safety
With a UL 790 Class A fire rating, CeDUR shakes offer top-tier fire protection, and they do so without requiring additional treatment or underlayment. In fact, many synthetic brands require a special underlayment to meet this rating—though CeDUR achieves it on its own.
Extreme Durability
All roofs should be able to withstand everyday conditions, but CeDUR roofs withstand severe weather—from hailstorms to high winds—and they won’t rot, crack, or split. Plus, they can keep this level of durability anywhere from 30 to 50 years with minimal maintenance.
Lightweight & Easy to Install
Weighing just 170 pounds per square, CeDUR shakes are four times lighter than traditional wood. Why is this important? It means that there is less strain on your home’s structure—not to mention an easier installation process.
Design Possibilities
CeDUR synthetic cedar shakes come in four distinct options that can meet designs of both modern and rustic styles.
Are Synthetic Cedar Shake Shingles Worth the Investment?
Absolutely! Although the cost of a synthetic cedar shake roof can vary, the answer is clear when you compare the benefits of having synthetic cedar shake vs not having it.
The upfront costs may be higher than other roofing materials, but it’s because the durability, energy efficiency, aesthetic appeal, and reduced maintenance requirements justify the investment in the long term.
Can a Synthetic Cedar Shake Roof Increase My Home’s Value?
Yes! A high-quality synthetic roof can increase your home’s resale value while cutting down on maintenance and insurance costs.
Create Your Synthetic Cedar roof with CeDUR Roofing Materials
In 2025, synthetic cedar shake roofing is an increasingly popular choice for homeowners like you, and the cost of CeDUR roofing is a competitive option that can generate long-term savings.
While it’s important to get quotes and consider your options, CeDUR offers one of the best synthetic shake roofing solutions available today.
If you want to learn about the costs of synthetic cedar shake shingles from CeDUR, contact us today.
And if you’re interested in learning more about CeDUR, take a look at our gallery or request a sample.