Replacing your home’s siding typically costs between $5,000 and $16,000, with prices varying based on material choice, labor costs, and home size. The cost per square foot ranges from $2 to $11, depending on whether you choose budget-friendly vinyl or premium fiber cement.
Recognizing when to replace siding is essential for maintaining your home’s structure and curb appeal. Signs like fading, cracks, rot, or moisture damage indicate it’s time for an upgrade. This guide breaks down the cost of popular siding materials—including vinyl, aluminum, wood shakes, and fiber cement—and provides tips to keep your project within budget.
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What Are the Different Types Of Siding I Might Replace?
When it’s time to replace siding, homeowners have six main options:
- Vinyl: Affordable and low-maintenance. It lasts 20+ years but may fade over time.
- Aluminum: Durable and recyclable but prone to dents.
- T1-11 (Sheet Siding): Made of wood panels that look like boards but require regular sealing to prevent rot.
- Natural Wood Shakes: Classic look with high maintenance needs. Needs sealing to prevent rot and insect damage.
- Hardboard: A budget-friendly option that’s easy to install but vulnerable to water damage.
- Fiber Cement: Long-lasting and durable, but requires sealing to prevent cracks and moisture damage.
What Are Common Siding Replacement Costs?
The cost to replace siding varies based on the type of material and how difficult it is to remove and install. Vinyl siding is the easiest and cheapest to work with, while fiber cement takes more time and effort, making it more expensive. Expect to pay anywhere from $2 to $11 per square foot depending on the material.
Vinyl Siding Costs
Vinyl is the most affordable siding to replace, with removal costs averaging $0.25 to $1.00 per square foot and replacement costs ranging from $2.50 to $11.00 per square foot. It’s easy to install and maintain, making it a popular choice for homeowners.
Aluminum Siding Costs
Aluminum siding is durable but can be tricky to remove, leading to slightly higher labor costs. Expect to pay $1.50 to $2.00 per square foot for removal and $2.50 to $7.00 per square foot for replacement.
T1-11 Sheet Siding Costs
T1-11 is one of the easiest wood siding types to remove, but glued installations can increase labor costs. Removal costs range from $1.00 to $2.00 per square foot, while replacement runs $3.50 to $6.00 per square foot.
Natural Wood Shakes Costs
Removing wood shakes is labor-intensive due to the high number of fasteners. Expect to pay $3.00 to $4.00 per square foot for removal and $4.50 to $6.00 per square foot for replacement.
Hardboard Siding Costs
Hardboard removal can be tricky due to its brittleness and tendency to break during removal. Removal costs range from $0.50 to $1.00 per square foot, while replacement typically runs $2.00 to $3.00 per square foot.
Fiber Cement Siding Costs
Fiber cement siding is brittle and requires careful removal to avoid breakage. Removal costs are typically $0.50 to $1.00 per square foot, while replacement costs run between $2.00 and $3.00 per square foot.
How to Save Money On Siding Removal and Replacement
To keep siding replacement costs low, consider these strategies:
- DIY Small Repairs: Minor siding repairs can be handled by experienced DIYers. However, larger projects requiring ladder work are best left to professionals.
- Purchase Materials Yourself: Buying materials directly can save money and allow you to take advantage of sales. Just be aware that some contractors may add a markup if they provide the materials.
- Get Multiple Quotes: Always compare estimates from at least three contractors to ensure you’re getting the best value.
What Do I Do If My House Has House Wrap?
Prior to the widespread availability of house wrap, builders would often take the extra step and install felt paper before beginning a siding installation. This felt (commonly called tar paper) is still used as a roof underlayment, due to its water resistance and adhesion qualities.
Felt paper extended the lifespan of siding by providing a barrier to both drafts and moisture. However, felt paper usually comes in narrow rolls, typically about 48” wide. That meant that to use the product as a house wrap, overlapping joints were created in the paper. These joints then required sealing, usually with tape, to dissuade water from accumulating behind the paper.
This required extra time and effort, so house wrap was invented. House wrap usually comes in 9’ rolls of 150’ and is often installed with either staples, or button cap nails. House warp is often wide enough to cover an entire wall, eliminating the extra joints caused by felt paper. House wrap was specifically designed to resist drafts, provide a long lasting moisture barrier, and seal the thermal envelope of the home.
Check for holes or tears caused during demolition. Small tears can be sealed with specialized tape, while larger areas may need patching. House wrap is compatible with all siding types and is standard in modern replacement projects.
Small repairs can be made using tape designed for house wrap, or for larger areas, the material can be easily patched together. House wrap will work under any type of siding, and is a normal part of a modern siding replacement project.
Are There Hidden Costs to Watch For?
Hidden costs can creep into siding projects due to material miscalculations, unforeseen damage, or scheduling delays. To avoid surprises:
- Inspect for Damage: Check for water or insect damage once the old siding is removed. Addressing hidden problems early prevents bigger expenses.
- Budget for Contingencies: Set aside 10–20% of your budget for unexpected costs. This safety net helps prevent financial strain if surprises arise.
Staying involved and asking questions throughout the project can help you catch issues before they escalate.
What is the Cheapest Siding Replacement?
If cost is your biggest concern, vinyl siding is usually the most affordable option, with prices ranging from $2.50 to $11 per square foot installed. Thin vinyl is cheaper but prone to warping under heat and impact, while thicker vinyl costs more upfront but holds its shape better and resists damage.
Other budget-friendly options include aluminum, which costs around $2.50 to $7 per square foot and offers durability but can dent easily. Hardboard siding is another option, priced between $2 and $3 per square foot, though it requires regular maintenance to prevent water damage. While lower-cost options may save money initially, investing in thicker or more durable materials often reduces maintenance and replacement costs over time.
Final Thoughts on Home Siding Replacement Costs
Replacing your home’s siding is one of the most impactful upgrades you can make, enhancing both curb appeal and energy efficiency. With a wide range of materials and costs available, it’s essential to balance upfront expenses with long-term durability and maintenance needs. Vinyl remains the most budget-friendly choice, but investing in higher-quality materials can prevent future headaches and costly repairs.
To get the best value, compare quotes from multiple contractors, ask about warranties, and inspect the condition of your home’s sheathing and house wrap before installation. Taking the time to plan carefully ensures that your siding replacement will protect your home and look great for years to come.
