Siding Cost by Material
The total cost to side a home depends primarily on the material selected, with installed prices typically ranging from $4 to $15 per square foot. A 1,500-square-foot home might see a total project cost between $6,000 and $22,500 before any structural repairs are added.
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- Vinyl siding — $4 to $8 per square foot installed; the most budget-friendly option with low maintenance costs.
- Fiber cement siding — $8 to $14 per square foot installed; mimics wood or masonry with better durability.
- Wood siding — $10 to $20 per square foot installed; natural appearance requires regular painting or staining.
- Aluminum or steel — $7 to $13 per square foot installed; dent-resistant and fireproof but limited in style.
What Drives the Final Price
Square footage is the baseline, but several factors push the number up or down. Older homes often need stripping of old siding and repair to sheathing before new material goes on, which adds $1 to $3 per square foot. Architectural complexity — gables, dormers, curved walls — increases waste and labor time. Regional labor rates also vary significantly; a contractor in a high-cost metro area can charge 30 to 50 percent more than one in a rural market.
Installation and Timeline
Professional installation is standard for most siding types, and permits in many jurisdictions add a few hundred dollars. A typical re-siding job takes two to five days for a single-story home, longer for multi-story or large-format materials. Getting at least three bids from licensed contractors ensures a realistic local price benchmark.
Long-Term Value Considerations
Cheaper materials like vinyl lower upfront cost but may need replacement sooner. Fiber cement and premium wood options carry higher initial prices but add resale value and durability. When evaluating the cost, factor in maintenance, energy efficiency gains from added insulation, and the expected lifespan of the material.