Choosing new siding for your home is a significant investment, and understanding the costs involved can help you make the best decision for your budget and long-term needs. From vinyl to fiber cement, wood, and aluminum, each material comes with its own price range, installation costs, and lifespan. Here, we’ll discuss how much siding costs from professional siding contractors and when to schedule a replacement.
Some things you’ll learn include the following:
Siding costs depend mainly on material, labor, and home size.
Labor usually costs $1–$5 per sq ft, with DIY as a possible but risky option.
Vinyl siding is cheapest at $3–$11 per sq ft installed; wood and fiber cement cost more.
Complete siding replacement typically runs $4,000 to $25,000+, depending on size and material.
Repair costs range from a few hundred to a few thousand dollars based on damage, size, and material.
Signs you need a replacement: extensive damage, moisture issues, or frequent repairs.
Expect siding to last 20 to 50 years, depending on the material and upkeep.
Always check for hidden costs like removal, prep, and permits.
Compare quotes to find the best balance of price and quality for your home.
Labor Costs to Install Siding
The total cost of the project will depend on several different factors. The two primary components include both labor and material. However, total home siding costs can also vary depending on where you live. For example, the cost of siding in major metropolitan areas such as New York City is going to be higher than in areas such as Northwest Arkansas or Alabama. Other factors that can also influence house siding cost include the style of your roof, home shape, and number of stories.
The average siding installation cost for labor only generally falls between $1 and $5 per square foot for standard materials like vinyl, with higher rates for fiber cement, stone veneer, or multi-story homes. Alternatively, some siding contractors charge an hourly rate that ranges anywhere between $40 and $90 per hour. To make sure that you don’t incur hidden costs, always check to see whether the full cost of labor is included in the initial estimate.
Can You Install Your Own Siding?
Some people may also consider installing siding as a DIY home improvement project. While this can save thousands in labor, siding installation requires specialized tools, safety gear, and specialized knowledge. Plus, improper installation can lead to moisture damage, warping, or higher long-term costs, so weigh the potential savings against the risks.
How Much Does Siding Cost Based on Material?
When budgeting for new siding, the material you choose will have the most significant impact on the final price. Each siding option comes with its own cost per square foot, labor requirements, and maintenance needs. Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect for the most common types of siding.
How Much Does Vinyl Siding Cost?
Vinyl siding remains one of the most affordable and popular options for homeowners.
Average cost for vinyl siding per square foot: Materials typically run $1.50 to $4, while installed costs range from $3 to $11 per square foot.
Labor cost to install vinyl siding: Labor alone usually falls between $1.50 and $3.50 per square foot, depending on home size, number of stories, and complexity.
Estimated siding cost for a 1,500 sq ft home: Expect to pay between $4,500 and $12,000 for a complete vinyl siding installation, with higher-end insulated options on the upper end of the range.
Overall costs may also be higher for specialized treatments, such as insulated vinyl siding or horizontal siding. Working with an exterior home contractor can help you get a better understanding of what to expect.
What’s the Final Cost of Wood Siding?
Wood is another popular siding option that offers a warm, natural appearance. However, it tends to be more expensive to purchase and maintain.
Average wood siding cost: Materials generally cost $3 to $7 per square foot, with installed costs ranging from $5 to $15 per square foot.
Price to replace old wood siding: Replacing worn or rotting wood siding can cost $7,000 to $18,000 or more for an average-sized home, especially if repairs to the underlying structure are needed.
Maintenance costs over time: Wood siding requires regular painting or staining every 3–7 years, which can add thousands in upkeep over its lifetime.
If you want a similar appearance to natural wood without the ongoing maintenance and costs, engineered wood siding is a good alternative.
How Much Does Fiber Cement Siding Cost?
Fiber cement siding is known for its durability and resistance to pests and rot. It’s made from a mixture of cement, sand, and cellulose fibers and can last up to 50 years.
Cost to install fiber cement siding: Materials typically run $2 to $6 per square foot, with installed costs ranging from $5 to $13 per square foot.
Why it costs more than vinyl: Fiber cement is heavier and more labor-intensive to install, requiring special cutting tools and safety equipment, which increases labor costs.
Long-term savings potential: Although the upfront investment is higher, fiber cement requires less maintenance than wood and can last 40–50 years, lowering lifetime costs.
What Are the Costs of Aluminum Siding?
Aluminum siding is another great option and is growing in popularity. And, contrary to what you may picture when thinking about metal siding, there are several advantages.
Price for aluminum siding replacement: Materials cost around $2 to $5 per square foot, with installed prices between $4 and $8 per square foot.
Pros and cons for budget-conscious homeowners: Aluminum siding is durable, fire-resistant, and low maintenance, but since it’s a bit less common, it may affect resale value in certain areas.
How Much Does Siding Replacement Cost?
If your home’s exterior is showing significant wear or damage, replacing the siding may be the best long-term investment. The cost to replace siding can vary depending on the material, home size, and labor rates, but a complete replacement also has several benefits.
When Siding Replacement Makes Sense
While minor issues can sometimes be repaired, there are situations where siding replacement is the smarter choice. Common signs you may need to replace siding instead of patching it include:
Large areas of rot, warping, or buckling
Repeated repairs that no longer solve the problem
Extensive insect or pest damage
Cracks, holes, or gaps that let in moisture
Fading or chalking beyond what repainting can fix
Noticeable drafts or energy loss due to siding failure
If more than 25–30% of your siding is damaged, most contractors will recommend full replacement to avoid ongoing maintenance costs.
Siding Repair Cost Estimates
If the damage is localized, you might be able to repair existing siding instead of replacing it entirely. The cost for siding repair will depend on the material, the size of the repair area, and how accessible it is.
Minor repairs (such as replacing a few vinyl panels) can cost as little as $200 – $600.
Major panel replacements for wood or fiber cement may range from $1,000 – $3,000, depending on material matching and labor needs.
Siding Cost FAQs
Some additional questions about siding and the associated costs include the following:
How much is siding for a small house?
Siding costs for small houses are generally lower since less material and labor are needed. Expect prices on the lower end of average, but the price per square foot might be slightly higher due to minimum fees.
What’s the cheapest siding material?
Vinyl siding usually offers the most affordable option. It’s low cost, easy to install, and requires minimal maintenance compared to wood or fiber cement.
How long does siding last before needing replacement?
Most siding materials last between 20 and 50 years, depending on the type. Vinyl and fiber cement can last 30+ years, while wood may need replacement or refinishing sooner.
How much does it cost to repair siding damage?
Minor repairs like patching or replacing a few panels typically cost a few hundred dollars, while major repairs can run into the thousands, depending on the material and extent of damage.
How much does labor cost to install siding?
Labor rates vary but typically make up 40-60% of the total siding installation cost. Expect to pay around $1 to $5 per square foot for professional labor.
What’s the cost difference between replacing and repairing siding?
Repairing is cheaper in the short term, but can add up if issues recur. Replacing siding costs more upfront but offers a fresh, long-lasting solution.
Are there any hidden costs when installing siding?
Yes, costs like removing old siding, prepping walls, permits, and disposal fees can add up and should be included in your budget.
Getting the Best Value for Your Siding Project
Whether you’re considering vinyl, wood, fiber cement, or aluminum, understanding the costs and benefits of each material will help you make an informed decision. If you’re ready to explore siding options or need an expert estimate for installation or replacement, contact First Star Exteriors today. Our experienced team is here to provide quality workmanship and competitive pricing to protect and enhance your home for years to come.
