When it comes to home improvement projects that make a difference, siding replacement or installation ranks near the top. Not only can new siding completely transform curb appeal, but it can also increase energy efficiency, improve weather protection, and even add value to your home. But how much does siding installation cost?
The short answer is… it depends. While some homeowners may look only at price per square foot, the cost of your siding project is determined by far more than just the siding material itself. Home size, siding type, labour requirements, existing conditions, and more can impact how much you invest in your siding project.
If you want to know what you might be paying for before you get started, here’s a look at some of the major factors that affect siding installation cost.
Type of Siding Material
The type of siding you choose can significantly impact the installation cost.
From material costs to installation fees, different siding options will vary greatly. For example, vinyl siding is one of the more affordable siding materials, while fibre cement, engineered wood, natural wood, and higher-end composite siding will cost you more.
Of course, the material you choose also impacts maintenance needs, durability, lifespan, and value.
Installation Cost Factors Associated with Your Home
Believe it or not, the size of your home matters when it comes to cost. The more material you need to cover your home, the more material you’ll need to buy. The more exterior walls your home has, the more labour it will take to get the job done.
Bigger homes aren’t the only concern. Installers also typically calculate square footage by the siding surface, not by your home’s floor plan. Additionally, multi-story homes may require extra labor due to accessibility and safety issues.
A two-story house with the same square footage as a one-story ranch may cost you more in siding.
Existing Siding
If you already have siding on your home, you may need to pay to have it removed. Your installer will need to dispose of your old siding, and may charge additional labor to remove it.
Some older sidings can be more difficult to remove. If your installer expects your current siding material to slow down the process, they may tack on an additional fee.
Another consideration is the condition of your existing siding. If your current siding is in poor condition, has multiple layers on top of each other, or wasn’t installed properly to begin with, removal can cost more.
Keep in mind that two homes with the same siding and square footage may have different estimates due to these underlying conditions.
Structural Repair
Speaking of underlying conditions, sometimes you may be surprised at what your installer finds when removing your old siding. Rot, insect damage, moisture, and deteriorated sheathing are often hidden behind your siding and can become issues once removal begins.
Common repairs associated with siding replacement include:
- Sheathing replacement
- Frame repair
- Moisture problem correction
- Rot correction
- Structural reinforcement
While these things can increase costs, they’re typically done to ensure your new siding does its job and protects your home for years to come.
Architectural Design
Not all homes are created equal when it comes to siding. Maybe your home has different levels, or two separate sections.
The more angles and details your home has, the longer it will take your installer to complete the job. More cutting, fitting, flashing, and finishing work will have to be done. More labor equals more cost.
Additionally, more complex designs typically result in more material waste. Everything your installer doesn’t use at your home will be an additional cost factored into your estimate.
Energy Efficient Updates
Many homeowners like to use siding replacement as an opportunity to make their homes more energy-efficient. By adding insulation, house wrap, and other energy-efficient upgrades, you can further protect your home and lower energy bills.
Insulation and energy-efficient updates can certainly add to your project cost, but may save you money in the long run.
Increasingly popular siding options are built to work with both moisture barriers and insulation to create an all-encompassing protective exterior.
Trim, Soffit, and Fascia
As mentioned before, siding isn’t the only thing you’ll probably be replacing on your home. Siding installs typically require trim boards, soffits, fascia, window trim, and may other products to finish off your home’s look.
Trim isn’t just for aesthetics; some of these products also help protect your home from moisture. When installing new siding on your home, it’s important to ensure everything matches and protects your home.
Consider the following when replacing your siding:
- Fascia boards
- Soffit panels
- Window trim
- Door trim
- Corner boards
Remember, adding these to your project will increase your cost.
Accessibility and Site Conditions
Another factor that can affect your installation price is how easy it is for your installer to actually do the job. Installing siding on a home that’s at the top of a hill (literally) can create extra labor and equipment due to the home’s location.
Additionally, homes that are hard to access due to landscaping or other obstructions can increase your overall cost. If your installer can’t get their materials in easily or has to take extra precautions when installing your siding, you may see that reflected in your estimate.
Installing siding on multi-story homes can also require extra equipment, such as scaffolding, lifts, and additional safety equipment.
Installer Expertise
Lastly, one of the biggest factors affecting your installation cost is the installers’ expertise. Sure, you may be able to find someone who will give you a low price, but will they do it right?
If your siding isn’t installed properly, you can quickly regret decisions based on low prices. Proper flashing, moisture management, and even correct fastening can make or break your siding’s performance.
Do your research when seeking out contractors in your area. Ask for photos of their previous work, and check reviews on companies you’re interested in working with. Find an installer that you can trust to do the job right.
Location
Let’s face it; your location can impact just about anything. Where you live can affect the cost of your siding installation.
From material availability to labor market and permitting requirements, your location can determine your installation costs. Homeowners in different areas could see their siding projects vary greatly in price.
While you’re less likely to see project costs fluctuate due to weather, your location can impact the installation process and timing.
Explore Options with LJ Roofing & Siding
There are many factors that affect how much you pay for new siding. From material costs to accessibility and labor, it’s important to know what you might be getting into before you get started.
If you’re looking for professional siding installation, check out LJ & Company. We offer customized siding solutions to fit your home and your budget. Interested in learning more? Contact us today for a free consultation and estimate!