Cost of Cedar Shingles vs Vinyl Siding for Bergen County, NJ Homes
If you're a homeowner in Bergen County or anywhere in Northern New Jersey weighing the cost of cedar shingles vs vinyl siding, you already know there's no shortage of opinions online. What's harder to find is honest, localized pricing that reflects what you'll actually pay in 2026 on a real project. This guide breaks down installed costs, maintenance expectations, and performance realities for both siding materials from the perspective of Golden Home Exteriors, a family-run siding contractor serving Bergen, Morris, Essex, and Union Counties.
Key Takeaways
- Cedar shingles typically cost around $9–$18 per square foot installed on Northern NJ projects, while quality vinyl siding runs roughly $4–$10 per square foot. Exact pricing depends on your home's size, condition, and current material costs.
- Cedar shake siding carries higher upfront and ongoing maintenance costs, including staining, sealing, and periodic repairs. Vinyl siding has a lower initial price and minimal maintenance, making long term costs far more predictable.
- Cedar shingles can be more expensive due to higher initial costs but offer aesthetic benefits that can increase a home's resale value in certain markets, particularly historic or upscale Bergen County neighborhoods.
- Bergen County's climate-freeze–thaw cycles, heavy rain, and occasional Nor'easter remnants-makes installation quality and moisture management critical for both siding materials.
- Golden Home Exteriors provides free siding quotes across Northern New Jersey to help homeowners compare real project numbers for cedar, vinyl, and fiber cement siding on their specific house.
Cedar Shingles vs Vinyl Siding: Fast Cost Comparison
Here's where many homeowners start: the numbers. For a typical 1,800–2,200 square foot Bergen County home with roughly 2,800–3,500 sq ft of wall area, here's what full siding replacement looks like in 2026:
| Siding Type | Per Sq Ft Installed | Typical Total Project Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Cedar shake/shingle siding | $9–$18+ | $18,000–$40,000+ |
| Standard vinyl siding | $3–$8 | $12,000–$24,000 |
| Insulated or premium vinyl | $5–$12 | $15,000–$28,000+ |
| Fiber cement siding | $8–$14 | $22,000–$42,000 |
| Cedar shingles cost about $6 to $20 per square foot for material alone, while vinyl siding costs about $3 to $9 per square foot. Cedar shake siding is usually the priciest cedar option because each piece requires individual placement and skilled labor. |
Golden Home Exteriors regularly installs both vinyl and fiber cement siding in Bergen County and can price cedar projects case-by-case. Homeowners comparing options can benefit from a broader look at the best siding types for houses, their benefits, and key cost considerations. Online averages only give rough guidance-your total project cost depends on wall area, architectural complexity, and existing conditions.
Don't forget to factor in scaffolding, disposal of old siding, and local permit fees in North Jersey towns like Ridgewood, Paramus, and Hackensack, which add to the final number.
What Drives the Cost of Cedar Shingle Siding?
Cedar shake siding is a premium natural wood siding product, and its price reflects both the material itself and the labor required to install it on older Bergen County homes. Cedar siding installation averages about $29,250 nationally, but Northern NJ projects often run higher.
Key cost factors include:
- Type of cedar. Western Red cedar is the most common species for siding. Eastern and Northern White cedar cost less but offer different grain and durability. Natural cedar is renewable and biodegradable, and FSC-certified cedar ensures sustainable forestry practices.
- Grade of wood. Clear, knot-free shingles raise both cost and aesthetic appeal. Knotty grades are more affordable but less uniform. Cedar siding costs $5–$11 per square foot for material depending on grade.
- Profile and style. Hand-split cedar shakes are thicker and more labor-intensive than machine-sawn shingles. Decorative patterns and different types of exposures also affect waste and time.
- Home complexity. Dormers, gables, and architectural details common in pre-war homes in towns like Teaneck or Montclair require more cutting and individual pieces, driving up labor costs.
Cedar shingles require skilled labor for installation. Each shake must be individually placed, fastened, and flashed, with labor often accounting for 40–60% of the total cost. Golden Home Exteriors also evaluates sheathing condition, housewrap, and any rot repairs when pricing cedar to avoid surprise change orders once old siding is removed.
What Drives the Cost of Vinyl Siding?
Vinyl siding is a budget-friendly option that still delivers strong curb appeal, especially with modern vinyl cedar shake profiles and insulated panels. Many North Jersey homeowners also consider premium siding materials like Hardie Plank, vinyl, and Maibec with upgraded exterior trim when planning a full exterior refresh. Vinyl siding installation costs $3.50 to $8 per square foot depending on product tier and complexity.
Core vinyl cost factors:
- Product tier. Builder-grade panels (.040–.045 in thick) are cheapest. Premium vinyl products use thicker gauges (.050+), reinforced nailing hems, and better UV stabilizers.
- Profile choice. Traditional clapboard, Dutch lap, board and batten, or vinyl cedar shake siding each carry different price points. Some vinyl products are recyclable, though recycling availability varies by region.
- Insulated vs. standard. Insulated vinyl siding adds $2–$3 per square foot but improves energy performance-a meaningful upgrade during Northern NJ winters.
- Trim package. Soffits, fascia, window and door trim, decorative corners, and accent panels all factor into cost. Coordinating windows, doors, and trim can elevate the finished look significantly.
Vinyl siding is faster and easier to install than cedar. Golden Home Exteriors crews can complete vinyl projects in less time, which lowers the labor portion of the project cost for Bergen County and Morris County homes. Vinyl production involves fossil fuels and has environmental tradeoffs, but its longevity and low upkeep make it a practical choice for many homeowners. Vinyl can often be installed over sound existing sheathing once old siding is removed, keeping pricing on the lower end when minimal repairs are needed.
Upfront Price vs Long-Term Costs (Maintenance & Lifespan)
Initial price is only half the story. Long term costs over 20–30 years frequently change which siding options are truly more expensive for Northern New Jersey homeowners.
Cedar siding requires regular maintenance: staining or painting every 3–7 years, plus periodic caulking, sanding, and sealing. Cedar siding needs regular caulking, sanding, and sealing to stay protected. For a large Bergen County home, professional staining runs $6,000–$14,000 per cycle. Over 20 years with four maintenance cycles, that alone adds $24,000–$50,000. Cedar's maintenance costs often exceed its initial installation cost. Cedar requires repainting every 3–7 years, and neglected cedar can incur major repair costs from rot, warped boards, and damaged sheathing-especially in damp, shaded areas.
Cedar siding lasts 20 to 40 years with maintenance, while cedar shingles have a lifespan of 50 to 75 years when installed properly and diligently maintained. Cedar shingles require high maintenance every 3 to 7 years to reach that upper range.
**Vinyl siding requires occasional washing with mild detergent-usually just a gentle rinse every year or two. Vinyl siding does not require repainting or resealing. No scraping, no sanding, no repainting. Repairs are typically limited to occasional panel replacement after storm or impact damage. Vinyl siding typically lasts 25 to 40 years with minimal maintenance, and some sources note vinyl siding lasts 10 to 20+ years for lower-end products. Vinyl siding has minimal maintenance costs over time, and its long-term cost is lower due to minimal maintenance. Both cedar and vinyl can last over 30 years when installed correctly, and targeted siding upgrade ideas to boost curb appeal and value can help you get even more out of whichever material you choose.
The total cost of ownership over 20 years can strongly favor vinyl: roughly $15,000–$30,000 total for vinyl versus $60,000–$100,000+ for cedar when you add up installation and more maintenance cycles.
Performance in North Jersey Weather: Cedar vs Vinyl (and Fiber Cement)
Bergen, Essex, and Morris Counties deliver humid summers, freeze–thaw winters, wind-driven rain, and occasional Nor'easter remnants. Here's how each material holds up.
Cedar siding is more durable than vinyl in some respects-real wood handles temperature swings well and cedar shingles may offer better insulation compared to vinyl siding. However, cedar is susceptible to rot if not properly sealed. Moisture can lead to cupping and decay, and it creates vulnerability to carpenter ants or termites when moisture issues aren't controlled. Proper housewrap and rain-screen details help protect against this. UV exposure causes natural cedar to develop a soft silver-gray patina over time if not stained, which some homeowners love and others see as a maintenance issue. Cedar can also crack under heavy hail impact, so it’s worth comparing these tradeoffs with alternative premium siding materials and trim options before you commit.
Vinyl siding is resistant to rot and moisture and won't attract insects, but vinyl siding can crack in extreme cold temperatures if struck by debris. Dark-colored vinyl panels may warp without adequate spacing and ventilation. Modern vinyl handles wind loads well when installed properly and fastened according to code-relevant for homes on hilltops or near the Hudson River. Quality vinyl offers strong color fade resistance; lower-end products fade faster.
Fiber cement siding is a third option Golden Home Exteriors offers. This blend of cement and cellulose mimics clapboard or cedar textures with excellent durability, fire resistance, and lower maintenance than natural cedar. Its cost often falls between cedar and premium vinyl, making it a compelling middle path.
Aesthetic Appeal and Curb Value in Bergen County Neighborhoods
Cost decisions aren't purely about dollars. Homeowners in towns like Ridgewood, Tenafly, and Glen Rock often weigh aesthetic appeal and neighborhood character heavily.
Cedar shake siding delivers a premium natural appearance with authentic wood grain patterns that give older Colonials and Cape Cods a classic, upscale look. Real cedar can be stained in warm browns or cool grays, or left to weather to a silver tone that many homeowners associate with New England or coastal architecture. Cedar shake siding creates texture and shadow lines that enhance curb appeal. Cedar shingles can increase a home's resale value in certain markets-particularly historic or high-end Bergen County neighborhoods. Cedar shingles offer a premium natural appearance that real wood siding enthusiasts find irreplaceable.
Vinyl siding comes in a wide array of colors, profiles, and textures, including vinyl cedar shakes that approximate real wood at lower cost and with less maintenance. Vinyl siding mimics wood grain but lacks depth compared to real cedar. Coordinated trim systems-corners, soffits, window surrounds-provide a clean, finished look that fits well in many Bergen County subdivisions. Vinyl can be a practical upgrade from old aluminum or failing wood siding without clashing with neighborhood aesthetics when chosen carefully. For more ideas on essential siding upgrades that enhance your home's curb appeal, Golden Home Exteriors has published a detailed guide.
Buyers often appreciate maintenance free exteriors at resale, but in some higher-end pockets, true cedar or fiber cement with a wood-grain finish may command a premium.
Replacing Old Siding: Typical Project Scope and Hidden Costs
Whether you choose cedar or vinyl, a significant portion of the budget in Bergen County comes from removing old siding and addressing underlying issues before putting new material on. These factors often matter more than the siding materials themselves.
Golden Home Exteriors handles the full process:
- Careful removal and disposal of old siding (vinyl, aluminum, or damaged wood), including debris hauling fees
- Inspection and replacement of any rotten sheathing or framing discovered underneath, especially around windows, doors, and roof-to-wall intersections
- Installation of proper housewrap, flashing, and moisture management details to protect the wall assembly
- Upgrading or replacing trim, soffits, and gutters if needed for a cohesive finish
Cedar siding projects may reveal more rot where previous maintenance was deferred. Older vinyl or aluminum jobs often require extensive flashing corrections around windows and penetrations. These hidden conditions can affect final cost more than the choice between cedar or vinyl alone, reinforcing the value of having an experienced, licensed contractor perform a thorough on-site inspection before you pay for anything.
How Golden Home Exteriors Helps You Choose (Local Expertise & Services)
Golden Home Exteriors is a family-run, fully licensed and insured exterior contractor based in Florham Park, serving Bergen County and nearby areas including Essex, Morris, and Union Counties. Homeowners who want to understand the company’s history and ownership can read more about Golden Home Improvements’ origins and roofing expertise. Formerly known as Golden Home Improvements, the company recently updated its name to better reflect its focus on your home's exterior.
Core services include:
- A full suite of roofing, siding, and window services for Northern NJ homes designed to improve durability and curb appeal
- Full siding replacement and exterior remodeling services across New Jersey-vinyl, fiber cement, and natural wood such as cedar
- Roofing, windows, and gutters for coordinated exterior upgrades, supported by comprehensive roofing and home improvement services throughout northern New Jersey
- Free, detailed quotes that break out material, labor, trim, and optional upgrades so you can see exactly how cedar shingles vs vinyl siding costs compare on your specific house
Golden Home Exteriors brings local knowledge of building codes, HOA expectations, and typical exterior styles in Bergen County towns. The team can show real samples of natural cedar, vinyl cedar shakes, and fiber cement options so you can compare texture, color, and thickness in person. The company's goal is to balance craftsmanship, durability, and budget-not just to sell the most expensive material. The recommendation may differ by home, and companies that take this approach help homeowners avoid overspending or underbuilding.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Cedar Shingles vs Vinyl Siding Costs in Bergen County, NJ
These FAQs address common cost and planning questions with answers specific to Northern New Jersey. Each covers practical concerns around budgeting, permitting, and timing that many homeowners raise during the quoting process.
How much more does cedar shake siding really cost than vinyl in Northern NJ?
For many Bergen County projects, cedar shakes can run roughly 40–80% more than midrange vinyl siding on a per square foot installed basis, depending on cedar grade and home complexity. A modest vinyl siding project that might cost $18,000 could come in closer to $28,000–$32,000 with cedar shakes once materials, labor, and finishing are included. Golden Home Exteriors will provide precise numbers after an on-site inspection, since online estimates can't account for your home's unique access challenges, architectural details, or sheathing condition.
Is fiber cement siding a better value than cedar or vinyl?
Fiber cement siding often sits between vinyl and cedar in upfront price but delivers strong long-term value because it's highly durable and fire resistant, with lower upkeep than natural cedar. It doesn't require the staining and sealing cedar demands, and it feels more substantial than vinyl. Golden Home Exteriors frequently recommends fiber cement for homeowners who want a natural wood look with more predictable maintenance costs and who find that other types of siding don't quite match their appearance goals.
Do I need a permit to replace siding in my Bergen County town?
Most Bergen County municipalities require a construction permit for full siding replacement, regardless of whether you choose cedar or vinyl. Permit fees vary by town. If your home was built before 1978, lead paint abatement rules may also apply during the removal of old siding layers. Golden Home Exteriors handles the permit process for customers across its service area, coordinating with local building departments in towns such as Fair Lawn, Fort Lee, and Englewood.
Can I mix materials, like cedar on the front and vinyl on the sides?
If you’re in neighboring communities such as Chatham or other Morris County towns, a local roofing and home improvement contractor experienced with mixed-material exteriors can help you design a balanced look.
Mixing siding materials is common and practical. Homeowners may choose cedar shake or fiber cement on the front façade for maximum curb appeal and use high-quality vinyl on less-visible sides to balance cost and appearance. This hybrid approach can save thousands while still delivering a premium look where it matters most. Golden Home Exteriors can design and price these split-material solutions, and the company frequently works with homeowners to maintain upkeep on their home's exterior without blowing the budget.
How do I get an accurate quote for my home?
Homeowners ready to move forward can start by requesting a free roofing and siding estimate from Golden Home Exteriors in Florham Park.
Golden Home Exteriors visits your property, measures the exterior wall area precisely, evaluates existing siding and sheathing, and discusses material options including cedar, vinyl, and fiber cement. From there, you receive a detailed written estimate separating material, labor, trim, and optional upgrades. Homeowners in Bergen, Essex, Morris, and Union Counties can schedule a free, no-pressure consultation to see exact cedar shingles vs vinyl siding costs for their specific home.
Conclusion & Next Steps: Get Your Local Siding Quote
Cedar shingle siding delivers unmatched natural wood character and longevity but comes with higher upfront and maintenance costs. Vinyl siding offers a lower entry price and predictable long-term expenses. Fiber cement often lands in the middle with excellent durability and less upkeep than cedar.
Bergen County's climate and existing home conditions make proper installation, moisture management, and contractor experience just as important as material choice. Think in terms of total cost of ownership-initial price plus 20–30 years of maintenance-rather than focusing solely on the cheapest bid.
Ready to see real numbers for your home? Contact Golden Home Exteriors for a free, detailed siding quote and personalized guidance on cedar shake siding, vinyl siding, or fiber cement options. We serve Bergen County and surrounding North Jersey communities including Morris, Essex, and Union Counties. Call us or request your free estimate online today to decide which siding delivers the best balance of cost, durability, and curb appeal for your home.
