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Knowing the expenses that make the total siding installation cost helps to set up a precise budget and stay within it. That is why we start this article with the average siding costs outlook for 2023.
The national average cost of installing siding on a standard-sized two-story house ranges from $4.600 to $13.200, depending on the selected material. A homeowner might be charged as low as $4 per square for material and labor when it comes to budget-friendly siding options like vinyl or as high as $50 for more expensive and durable alternatives like natural stone.
All in all, even the mid-range home siding costs around $8.900, which makes a considerable amount of the home update budget. That is why it pays for homeowners to ensure they understand each component that comes to the cost of new exterior siding installation before seeking out price quotes from local professionals.
What to consider when calculating the exterior siding cost?
The obvious items of expenditure coming in the total cost of siding installation include the price of the material itself and labor. However, other less notable cost-formation factors make up a considerable part of the budget and require separate consideration. Having a clear idea of these factors will help you make a siding choice that works for your home and budget. Take a look below to find out what factors affect the cost of installing home siding.
Cost-formation factors
The size and shape of the house
The size and structural complexity of the house that needs to be covered with siding determine the labor intensiveness of the project and the required amount of material. The multiple-story homes with complicated roof structures involving turrets, chimneys, dormers, and skylights are much more complex to cover with siding than one-story buildings of standard size and shape. Complex projects require siding installers to possess specific skills and knowledge. Plus, they need more labor time, resulting in higher figures in price quotations.
Home's geographic location
Metal, wood, and vinyl siding costs are not fixed and can vary from state to state. Labor rates also depend on the home's geographical location and the average wages in the city. One should also consider the complexity of the selected material installation. If the material is heavyweight and tricky to install, it will require more workforce, time, and equipment, raising the total project cost. When negotiating with a siding contractor, ask how the labor cost is itemized and how it might be affected by weather and material delays.
The type and quality of siding material
It goes without saying that the costs of siding materials vary by their type, from affordable vinyl to top-dollar natural stone and redwood. But what if we say that every single siding material has multiple quality levels that determine its longevity and cost per square foot? For instance, premium-grade vinyl siding with panels thickness varying from 52 to 55 mm is not inferior in quality to fiber cement and brick. While plywood costs lower than mid-range vinyl and has much worse resistance to moisture and insect infestation. Visual appeal, thickness, durability, and resistance to the elements and UV rays are what distinguish siding options by their quality levels.
The time of the year for installing siding
The cost of home siding installation depends on the selected season. Winter and late autumn are low seasons for siding contractors. That is why they are often ready to take up a new project at a lower rate. However, there is a risk your installation will be postponed due to adverse weather conditions. On the contrary, late spring and early summer are the peak seasons for the jobs like siding installation, and you will need to pay higher for the exact scope of services only if you did not preorder them.
Additional expenses
Old siding removal
Average cost: $900 - $2.800 or $0.25. - $1 per sq. ft.
One of the initial stages of a siding installation project is considering the type and condition of the existing cladding. If there are any signs of rot, mildew, and insect damage on the existing panels or boards, a siding contractor will recommend removing them rather than applying new material over the top of the existing one. Some siding types, like brick or stone veneer, don't allow multiple-layers installation even if the initial material is in mint condition. Dismantling and disposing of the existing siding will add to the cost of siding replacement.
Getting permits
Average cost: $50 - $250
A full-fledged home siding replacement requires getting a permit almost in all states around the country. This home improvement project usually involves changing the home's exterior and temporarily removing the electrical connections. Jobs like these are regulated by a local municipality and have to meet the existing building codes and rules. Pulling an appropriate building permit for installing new home siding costs extra. However, the absence of the local tax assessor's approval will lead to more financial losses in terms of fines and forced removal of the unpermitted exterior siding.
Additional cost considerations
Custom siding options
If you need exterior siding of a particular color scheme and texture, you will have to make a custom order that will cost you 1.5 - 2 times higher than standard options. Some manufacturers also offer premium lines comprising siding options of exceptional quality that look as natural as possible. On top of that, numerous custom trims complement standard siding materials and create a truly unique home's exterior. However, they also cost extra as non-standard moldings are often special-order items.
Maintenance
Every home siding comes with unique upkeep requirements. It makes sense to find out more about the maintenance cost of the selected materials before making a purchase, as the initial investment is the tip of the iceberg. For instance, stone and brick siding requires predominantly professional maintenance to keep the material and mortar intact. Vinyl siding, on the contrary, is practically maintenance-free and can preserve its initial look for years with little to no investment. Siding options like wood need meticulous upkeep and should be regularly cleaned, painted, and stained to preserve their insulation and moisture-resistant properties.
An in-depth overview of siding costs by type
Exterior siding comes in an array of types and styles that vary by their properties, installation complexity, and cost per square foot. That is why most homeowners find it a daunting task to decide on the right option for their home without assistance. The good news is that the assortment of siding products is so vast that they accommodate virtually any budget and preferences.
Below we outline the most sought-after siding materials for homes and what to expect from them in terms of insulation, weather resistance, durability, and appearance.
Vinyl siding
Average cost: $3 to $8.50 per square foot
Being a relatively familiar and widely installed siding material, vinyl makes for a safe choice for everyone afraid to experiment. Besides, this material is affordable and takes little time and experience to be installed and maintained. The average cost to install vinyl siding ranges from $3 to $8.50, including material and labor. This siding material maintenance might be completely DIY as a homeowner only needs a wet cloth and a homemade detergent to clean it from dirt and algae.
The wide gamut of colors, textures, and sizes has put vinyl siding material in the row with wood and metal. However, it is usually less durable than other siding options available on the market. Except for premium variations, vinyl siding is vulnerable to moisture, hail, and high winds and can be damaged by heavy objects like rocks and branches.
Pros
Cons
Longevity: top-shelf vinyl can last as long as 30 years
Short service life: vinyl siding of lower quality cannot serve longer 8 years
Affordability: low-grade vinyl siding costs $2.80 per sq. ft
Damage-prone: hail, rocks, branches, and other heavy elements may result in dents and gashes on siding panels
Diversity: vinyl is available in countless colors and textures, including those mimic natural wood
Fading-prone: vinyl loses its initial color being exposed to direct sun for a long time
Low maintenance: vinyl is simple to clean and does not require regular painting and sealing
Poor moisture resistance: this siding option is not the best for rainy and hurricane-prone areas, as water can easily penetrate panels through cracks and cause mold growth
Resistance to rot and pest infestation
Vulnerability to temperature changes: vinyl can shatter because of the rapid temperature drops from cold to hot and vice versa
High R-value: insulated vinyl has a high energy efficiency
No color amendments are available: while vinyl comes in multiple colors, the one you selected will remain by the end of its service life as this material cannot be painted
Fiber cement siding
Average cost: $4 to $8 per square foot
This material comes in the range of top-quality, environmentally sustainable, and durable exterior siding solutions. Some fiber cement manufacturers offer up to 50 years of warranty on their products which is fantastic considering the affordable price per square foot. This material has topped the list of the best exterior siding options for the last two years, possessing multiple advantages like unmatched durability (not vulnerable to the elements and external factors) and aesthetic appeal (fiber cement comes in different styles and finishes and can mimic natural wood and brick).
It is important to note that fiber cement is complicated and costly to install. It's heavy and does not imply mounting extra layers of siding over it. Besides, if it's not properly insulated, fiber cement siding might be exposed to moisture-related issues as well as water damage during freeze/thaw cycles.
Pros
Cons
Versatility: fiber cement siding comes in different colors and textures and can replicate the look of conventional wood, like shakes and lap
Complicated installation: fiber cement is a heavy material that is challenging to cut and install, resulting in higher labor intensiveness of the project
Durability: thanks to its composition, fiber cement siding is weather and impact resistant, which helps it serve for up to 50 years
Challenging to order from the manufacturer: most fiber cement manufacturers don't sell their products in small- or medium-sized lots for distribution, meaning you can only get the needed amount of material from the local retailer or siding contractor
Appealing look: this siding material suits homes of different styles and can greatly enhance their curb appeal, ensuring weather and fading resistance
Low R-value: the insulation level of fiber cement is lower than vinyl, with .5 and .61 R-values, respectively, which means you will need to apply additional insulation to the walls and attic to ensure your home's energy efficiency
Fire resistance: fiber cement has a 1A fire resistance class.
Heavyweight: fiber cement is a heavy material that contributes 300 pounds of weight for every 100 sq. ft. of installed siding that not every home structure can bear
Impact resistance: fiber cement is a robust siding material that is almost impossible to crack or bend
Not recyclable: fiber cement is inert from an environmental perspective, meaning it won't degrade into a damaging substance within years
Impervious to pests: unlike wood, fiber cement is sturdy enough to prevent termites and bees from penetrating it
Simple to upkeep: this siding material does not require frequent repainting, having ultimate resistance to fading and chipping
Metal siding
Average cost: $5 to $9 per square foot
Metal is one of the most cost-effective siding materials that come in aluminum, copper, and zinc variations. It is robust, lightweight, weather-resistant, and lasts as long as 30-40 years with no special upkeep. Metal siding can be installed in different climates as it stands up equally well in the scorching sun and freezing cold. Besides, this material is not vulnerable to insects, mildew, and corrosion.
The downside of metal siding is that it is prone to rust and can easily dent or scratch. Fortunately, damaged siding panels can be replaced or painted to restore their initial appearance.
Pros
Cons
Mold, rot, and insects resistance: painted metal siding covered with special anti-corrosion coverage is immune to insect infestation, mold, and rot
Vulnerable to rust: metal siding installed in coastal climates can become rust if not regularly covered by a protective agent
Weather resistance: this type of siding is not vulnerable to water and can withstand different climate conditions
Dent-prone: lighter metal siding options like aluminium are prone to dent and can experience severe damage after the hailstorm
Fire resistance: metal siding features the highest rate of fire resistance and can be installed in fire-prone regions
Does not fit all exteriors: metal siding is mainly associated with contemporary and modern-style buildings, while classic and rustic ones look better covered with wood
Little to no maintenance: this siding type does not require regular painting and insulation
Eco-friendliness: all types of metal siding are recyclable
Wood siding
Average cost: $5 to $10 per square foot
Siding made of natural wood is a traditional exterior option for classic homes that offers a rich look for up to 30 years if properly upkeeped. It comes in the form of shakes, shingles, clapboard, and siding lap, providing a wide variety of styles to choose from. You can also pick a suitable wood species for your home. Popular options include spruce, pine, fir, and cedar. Redwood is the most precious and durable material for exterior siding that creates a dramatic look.
Wood is an expensive siding option in terms of installation and maintenance. It requires regular painting, caulking, and applying fungicide and mildew deterrents to prevent moisture and insect damage. Besides, natural wood siding is vulnerable to rot and fire and can warp under extreme weather conditions.
Pros
Cons
Classic look: natural wood siding gives residential buildings a traditional and posh look
Considerable initial investment: wood siding can be less or more expensive depending on the type and texture, yet it is definitely costlier than metal and vinyl siding
Eco-friendliness: this siding material is green when made from renewable sources
High maintenance requirements: siding made of natural wood should be painted and stained every few years to ensure proper protection from moisture, rot, and pests
Versatility: wood siding is available in numerous specious, styles and can be painted in any color you want
Non-resistant to fire: wood siding is not recommended to install in fire-prone areas as it is flammable unless covered with flame-retardant chemicals
Simple repair: this siding type is simpler to repair compared to other materials that may require replacing whole panels
Prone to rot and insects damage: wood is susceptible to different forms of natural decay, including rot, drying out, and others
High R-value: exterior wood siding is a good insulator that enhances the home's energy efficiency
Stucco siding
Average cost: $9 to $12 per square foot
Stucco is an organic siding material made of building sand, cement, and water. This siding type is commonly seen on homes in the Southwest and Pacific regions of the country, where the climate is mild, and nothing can affect the stucco longevity. This material is applied on metal laths, mesh sheets, and bricks, creating a waterproof barrier between the home's walls and the elements. However, stucco is not recommended to install in damp climates with an abundance of annual rainfall. On the contrary, those who live in dryer climates can take great advantage of stucco as it offers great insulation and allows to cut on cooling costs.
Pros
Cons
Durability: if properly installed and maintained, stucco can last about 30 years
Professional installation: stucco is not a DIY-friendly siding material and requires hiring a professional siding installation team
Affordability: stucco siding is budget-friendly in terms of installation and maintenance
Vulnerability to cracks: stucco can get damaged due to the rapid material expanding and contracting or when the home settles
Energy efficiency: stucco siding is an excellent insulator that helps to keep a comfortable temperature inside the home, optimizing spending on utility
Poor water resistance: stucco cannot withstand regular moisture exposure
Minimal maintenance: stucco requires periodic cleaning and cracks sealing
Simple repair: stucco can be repaired in small sections, which reduces upkeep spending
Versatility: this siding is available in multiple colors and texture options
Fire and insect resistance
Natural stone siding
Average cost: $15 to $40 per square foot
This siding material is distinguished by its high aesthetic value and durability. It costs a pretty penny per square foot yet offers a bunch of undeniable advantages, from extensive service life (over 100 years) to water, fire, rot, and pest resistance. On top of that, stone siding does not need much maintenance - annual cleaning will be enough to keep it in mint condition. This natural material is not vulnerable to fading or moisture damage, preserving its initial look for years to come.
The primary drawback of this material is its installation cost. Natural stone is heavyweight and requires much effort to be delivered to the site and mounted. Make sure to consult your siding contractor before the start of the project, as your home's structure might not bear the weight of natural stone. You might be recommended to substitute natural stone with lighter-weight stone veneer siding that preserves almost the same properties while having a lower price.
Pros
Cons
High aesthetic value: natural stone siding gives a house a fascinating look and feel, hiring its resale value
High initial cost: covering the 2.000 sq. ft. house with natural stone siding might cost as high as $22.000 for material and labor
Long service life: this is one of the most durable exterior siding materials that can last a lifetime
Heavyweight: stone siding has a considerable weight, and your house might need additional structural support to bare it
Little maintenance is required: if properly installed, stone siding serves for decades with little to maintenance needed
Labor-intensive installation: the process of natural stone siding installation is a labor-intensive, and time-consuming project, not every siding crew is ready to tackle
Versatility: natural stone siding is available in multiple colors, and textures
Unmatches resistance to moisture, extreme temperatures, fire, rot, fading, and pest infestation
Brick siding
Average cost: $13 to $20 per square foot
Brick is a traditional siding material made of fired clay of different shades of red. It comes in multiple textures and sizes, requiring virtually no maintenance for the first 10-15 years. Brick has proven that it can stand the test of time, as multiple historical buildings that have reached our days are covered with this siding material.
You can install brick siding no matter your local climate, as this material is durable and can easily withstand extreme weather conditions. Besides, brick is not prone to rot, fire, or fade and can help you save on cooling and heating costs.
Pros
Cons
Long service life: similar to stone siding, brick possesses unmatched durability and can last up to 100 years
High initial cost: brick is time-consuming and complicated to install
Versatility: brick siding can be ordered in a wide gamut of colors and textures
Heavyweight: your house might need additional structural support because of the added weight from brick siding
Low maintenance: brick requires no maintenance except for inspecting mortar joints after the first twenty years of siding service
Weather resistance: brick siding is impervious to heavy rain and wind as well as hailstorms, and direct sun rays
Immunity to rot, fire, fading, and pest infestation
How much does it cost to repair the home siding?
Timely siding repair is paramount as it helps keep your home looking fresh and prevents further deterioration and major water damage. Besides, it addresses issues like mold and mildew growth, warping, and lowering the home's energy efficiency.
Depending on the current siding material, the cost and complexity of siding repair may vary. However, it is not the only factor that might affect the ultimate estimate. The extent of the damage, the size, and height of the home, as well as its location and local labor costs, also function as cost-affecting factors.
The national average cost of exterior siding repair varies from $410 to $1.557, with most homeowners spending around $895 for material and labor. Related factors like complex siding configuration, less accessible working area, or asbestos removal might significantly add to the cost, raising it to $10.000. Make sure to add disposal costs to your siding repair budget, which may go up to $1.000, depending on the amount of material to be recycled.
Here are the common siding repair types and their costs per material and labor:
Type of repair
Average cost
Mold removal
$500 - $700
Rot removal
$120 - $320
Algae removal
$50 - $100
Cracks repair
$50-$150
Warped siding fixing
$160-$320
Water damage elimination
$500-$600
Dents fixing
$120-$300
Here is the cost breakdown of exterior siding repair costs by material type:
Type of siding material
Average repair cost per sq. ft.
Vinyl siding
$2 - $4
Aluminum siding
$3 - $6
Wood siding
$7 - $23
Fiber cement siding
$5 - $9
Stone siding
$36 - $42
Brick siding
$9 - $14
Stucco siding
$6 - $17
While you assess the siding installation and repair prices, it might be a good idea to request a few estimates from siding crews near you to get a better idea of up-to-date local labor costs. With HomeQuote, you can do it free of charge by filling out the request form on our website. We're experts in connecting homeowners with the best-matching contractors for their siding projects and have ultimate confidence that we can help you too. Once you share with us the upcoming project details, we will start working on finding you qualified siding installation professionals in your region. Eventually, you will get up to 5 free siding quotes from hand-picked contractors who provide their services in your ZIP area.
