Siding Replacement Cost
Siding replacement costs $5,000-$15,000 for most average-sized homes. Vinyl siding is most affordable at $3-$8 per square foot installed, while fiber cement costs $6-$13 and wood siding ranges from $8-$14 per square foot installed.
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Cost Breakdown
| Component | Low | High |
|---|---|---|
| Parts | $3,000 | $20,000 |
| Labor | $2,500 | $15,000 |
| Total | $5,500 | $35,000 |
| DIY (parts only) | $2,500 | $15,000 |
What Is Siding and Why Replace It?
Siding is the exterior cladding that protects your home from weather, insects, and moisture while providing aesthetic appeal. Understanding siding replacement cost helps you budget for this major home improvement that protects your largest investment.
Signs your siding needs replacement include visible rot or decay, warping or buckling, frequent painting needs, high energy bills (poor insulation), mold or mildew growth, and significant fading or damage from storms.
Siding Replacement Cost by Material
Vinyl Siding
Cost: $3-$8 per square foot installed
Pros:
- Most affordable option
- Low maintenance (no painting)
- Wide color and style selection
- Easy to install
- Resists rot and insects
Cons:
- Can crack in extreme cold
- Fades over time
- Less durable than other options
- Can look inexpensive
- Not as eco-friendly
Best for: Budget-conscious homeowners, rental properties, moderate climates.
Fiber Cement Siding (James Hardie)
Cost: $6-$13 per square foot installed
Pros:
- Extremely durable (30-50 year lifespan)
- Fire resistant
- Resists rot, insects, and UV damage
- Can mimic wood appearance
- Low maintenance
Cons:
- Heavy (requires strong walls)
- Higher installation cost
- Requires painting every 10-15 years
- Can crack if improperly installed
- More expensive than vinyl
Best for: Long-term homeowners, areas with extreme weather, those wanting wood look without maintenance.
Wood Siding
Cost: $8-$14 per square foot installed
Pros:
- Natural beauty and character
- Eco-friendly and renewable
- Can be stained or painted any color
- Good insulation properties
- Repairable (individual boards)
Cons:
- Requires regular maintenance (painting/staining)
- Susceptible to rot, insects, fire
- Higher ongoing costs
- Needs proper installation for moisture control
- Most expensive to maintain long-term
Best for: Historic homes, those prioritizing aesthetics, hands-on homeowners willing to maintain.
Metal/Aluminum Siding
Cost: $5-$8 per square foot installed
Pros:
- Very long-lasting (40-50 years)
- Fire resistant
- Low maintenance
- Recyclable
- Resists rot and insects
Cons:
- Can dent easily
- Noise in rain/hail
- Conducts heat/cold
- Limited color options
- Can fade or chalk over time
Best for: Contemporary homes, commercial buildings, fire-prone areas.
Engineered Wood Siding (LP SmartSide)
Cost: $5-$10 per square foot installed
Pros:
- Looks like real wood
- More affordable than natural wood
- Better moisture resistance than wood
- Consistent quality
- Paintable
Cons:
- Still requires painting
- Less durable than fiber cement
- Can swell with moisture if damaged
- 20-30 year lifespan
- Trim pieces can be expensive
Best for: Those wanting wood aesthetics with better durability and lower cost.
Siding Cost Comparison Table
| Material | Cost/Sq Ft | 1,500 Sq Ft Home | Lifespan | Maintenance |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Vinyl | $3-$8 | $4,500-$12,000 | 20-40 yrs | Very low |
| Fiber cement | $6-$13 | $9,000-$19,500 | 30-50 yrs | Low |
| Wood | $8-$14 | $12,000-$21,000 | 20-40 yrs | High |
| Aluminum | $5-$8 | $7,500-$12,000 | 40-50 yrs | Low |
| Engineered wood | $5-$10 | $7,500-$15,000 | 20-30 yrs | Medium |
| Stucco | $8-$17 | $12,000-$25,500 | 50-80 yrs | Low |
Factors That Affect Siding Replacement Cost
1. Home Size and Layout
The total exterior square footage is the primary cost driver:
| Home Size | Siding Area | Vinyl Cost | Fiber Cement |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1,200 sq ft | 1,000-1,200 sq ft | $3,000-$9,600 | $6,000-$15,600 |
| 1,800 sq ft | 1,400-1,700 sq ft | $4,200-$13,600 | $8,400-$22,100 |
| 2,400 sq ft | 1,800-2,200 sq ft | $5,400-$17,600 | $10,800-$28,600 |
| 3,000 sq ft | 2,200-2,700 sq ft | $6,600-$21,600 | $13,200-$35,100 |
2. Number of Stories
Multi-story homes cost more:
- Single story: Base pricing
- Two stories: 15-25% premium for scaffolding and complexity
- Three+ stories: 25-40% premium, may require special equipment
3. Architectural Complexity
Additional features increase cost:
- Multiple gables: +$200-$500 each
- Dormers: +$300-$800 each
- Rounded walls: +50-100% for those sections
- Extensive trim: +10-20% overall
- Many windows/doors: More cutting and flashing
4. Removal of Existing Siding
| Removal Type | Cost |
|---|---|
| Vinyl over wood | $0.50-$1/sq ft |
| Wood siding | $0.75-$1.50/sq ft |
| Stucco | $2-$4/sq ft |
| Asbestos siding | $5-$15/sq ft (requires abatement) |
5. Repairs Needed
Underlying issues add cost:
- Rotted sheathing: $3-$10/sq ft to replace
- Structural repairs: $500-$2,500+
- Moisture barrier replacement: $0.50-$1/sq ft
- Window/door flashing: $50-$150 per opening
Siding Replacement Cost by State
| State | Vinyl (per sq ft) | Fiber Cement (per sq ft) |
|---|---|---|
| California | $4-$10 | $8-$15 |
| Texas | $3-$7 | $6-$12 |
| Florida | $3.50-$8 | $6.50-$13 |
| New York | $4.50-$10 | $8-$15 |
| Pennsylvania | $3.50-$8 | $6-$12 |
| Illinois | $3.50-$8 | $6.50-$13 |
| Ohio | $3-$7 | $5.50-$11 |
| Georgia | $3-$7 | $6-$12 |
| North Carolina | $3-$7 | $6-$12 |
| Michigan | $3.50-$8 | $6-$12 |
Prices include materials and installation.
What's Included in Professional Siding Installation
Standard Installation Includes:
- Removal of existing siding (usually)
- Inspection of sheathing
- House wrap/moisture barrier
- New siding installation
- J-channel around windows and doors
- Corner posts and starter strips
- Basic trim work
- Cleanup and debris removal
Often Extra:
- Rotted wood replacement
- New window/door trim
- Soffit and fascia replacement
- New gutters
- Insulation upgrades
- Extensive custom trim
DIY vs Professional Installation
DIY Difficulty
Can you do this yourself?
Tools Needed
PROS
- Save $3,000-$10,000 on labor
- Work at your own pace
- Control over quality and details
- Learn valuable home improvement skills
CONS
- Very time-consuming (weeks of weekends)
- Working at heights is dangerous
- Improper installation voids warranties
- Moisture intrusion risk if done incorrectly
- May need permits and inspections
- Heavy lifting required
- Tool rental costs add up
Our Recommendation: Siding installation is a significant DIY project that's feasible for experienced homeowners with construction knowledge. Vinyl siding is most DIY-friendly, while fiber cement requires specialized tools and techniques. Critical factors include proper moisture barrier installation and correct flashing around windows and doors. Consider hiring professionals for second-story work and complex areas.
DIY Siding Installation
Realistic for:
- Vinyl siding on single-story
- Partial repairs or small areas
- Experienced DIYers with helpers
- Those willing to invest weeks of work
Cost savings:
- Vinyl DIY: Save $2,500-$6,000 on 1,500 sq ft home
- Fiber cement DIY: Save $4,500-$9,000 (but not recommended)
DIY Challenges:
- Working safely at heights
- Proper moisture barrier installation
- Correct window/door flashing
- Achieving level, straight courses
- Cutting around obstacles
- Proper nailing technique (allows expansion)
Professional Installation
Recommended for:
- Fiber cement (heavy, requires skill)
- Two-story or higher homes
- Complex architectural features
- Those without construction experience
- When warranty coverage matters
Professional Benefits:
- Proper installation techniques
- Manufacturer warranty compliance
- Licensed, insured work
- Faster completion
- Better results around windows/doors
How to Save on Siding Replacement Cost
1. Get Multiple Quotes
Get 3-5 written estimates. Prices vary 20-40% between contractors.
2. Choose the Right Material
Don't over-buy. If you're selling in 5 years, expensive fiber cement may not pay off. Vinyl offers excellent value for many situations.
3. Time Your Project
Off-season (late fall, early spring) often brings lower prices. Avoid scheduling during peak summer months.
4. Keep Existing Trim
If trim is in good condition, keeping it reduces costs significantly.
5. Bundle with Other Work
Combine with roof replacement, window installation, or gutter work for package pricing.
6. DIY What You Can
Even if hiring pros for siding, doing your own demolition can save $500-$1,500.
7. Consider Financing
Many contractors offer 0% financing. Compare total cost vs cash discount.
What to Expect During Siding Replacement
Day 1-2: Preparation
- Protect landscaping and windows
- Set up scaffolding/ladders
- Remove existing siding
- Inspect and repair sheathing
Day 2-4: Installation
- Install moisture barrier
- Apply starter strips and corner posts
- Install siding panels course by course
- Cut and fit around windows and doors
Day 5-7: Finishing
- Install trim pieces
- Complete detail work
- Cleanup and debris removal
- Final inspection
Timeline varies based on home size and complexity.
Signs You Need Siding Replacement
Replace Soon (Within 1-2 Years)
- Significant fading affecting appearance
- Minor warping or buckling
- Paint peeling frequently
- Energy bills increasing
- Siding over 20 years old
Replace Immediately
- Visible rot or decay
- Mold or mildew growth
- Holes or large cracks
- Siding pulling away from house
- Water damage inside walls
- Storm damage
Repair Instead of Replace
- Isolated damage to few panels
- Small cracks or holes
- Minor dents in metal siding
- Faded areas that can be painted
Conclusion
Siding replacement cost ranges from $5,000 to $15,000 for most homes, with material choice being the biggest factor. Vinyl offers the lowest cost at $3-$8 per square foot, while fiber cement provides superior durability at $6-$13 per square foot.
When planning your siding project, consider long-term value, not just upfront cost. Fiber cement's 30-50 year lifespan may cost more initially but saves money over time compared to vinyl that may need replacement in 20-25 years.
Get multiple quotes, verify contractor credentials and insurance, and don't skip necessary repairs to underlying structure. Proper installation is essential—poor workmanship leads to moisture problems that can cost thousands to repair.
Cost by Vehicle Type
| Vehicle Type | Parts | Labor | Total |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vinyl Siding (1,500 sq ft) | $2,250-$6,000 | $2,250-$6,000 | $4,500-$12,000 |
| Fiber Cement (1,500 sq ft) | $4,500-$10,500 | $4,500-$9,000 | $9,000-$19,500 |
| Wood Siding (1,500 sq ft) | $6,000-$12,000 | $6,000-$9,000 | $12,000-$21,000 |
| Metal/Aluminum Siding (1,500 sq ft) | $4,500-$12,000 | $3,750-$7,500 | $8,250-$19,500 |
| Engineered Wood (1,500 sq ft) | $3,750-$9,000 | $3,750-$7,500 | $7,500-$16,500 |
| Stucco (1,500 sq ft) | $6,750-$13,500 | $6,000-$12,000 | $12,750-$25,500 |