Re-siding your home might not be the most glamorous project, but it’s like giving your house a much-needed facelift that boosts its look and durability. The cost of re-siding can feel like a big commitment but it’s a smart investment that not only enhances your home’s appearance but also improves energy efficiency.
No one likes surprises when it comes to home projects, especially the kind that hit your wallet. That’s why clearly understanding what you’re paying for upfront can help you plan better and choose the right materials.
After all, your home is where you hang your hat (and everything else), so why not make sure it’s looking its best?
What Influences the Cost of Re-Siding Your House?
When you’re figuring out how much it’s going to cost to re-side your home, it can feel like putting together a puzzle. The pieces aren’t random, though — each one affects the total price in a unique way.
1. Size of Your Home
Naturally, the bigger your home, the more material you’ll need and the more labor it’s going to take. A small, cozy home won’t set you back nearly as much as a sprawling two-story house.
The square footage of your home gives you a rough idea of how much siding you’ll need and is often the starting point for any contractor when estimating costs. The cost per square foot for materials may be fixed, but as that number grows with the size of your house, so does your overall bill.
2. Material Choice
The type of siding you choose can be one of the biggest factors in determining the cost. Vinyl is typically the most affordable option, which is why it’s so popular.
If you’re looking for something more classic, like wood or fiber cement, be prepared to pay a bit more. Stone veneer takes things to a whole other level of elegance, but it also comes with a premium price.
The material doesn’t just affect your wallet, though; it also affects how much maintenance you’ll need down the road. Some options, like vinyl, are pretty low-maintenance, while others, like wood, may require regular upkeep to stay in good shape.
3. Labor Costs
If you’re not planning to DIY the project, you’ll need to factor in the price of hiring a professional. Labor rates can vary widely depending on your region, the complexity of your home’s design, and even the season.
In general, you can expect labor to account for a significant portion of your total costs, so it’s worth getting multiple quotes to make sure you’re not paying more than you need to. On top of that, if your current siding needs to be removed or there’s damage lurking underneath, the labor costs can rise quickly.
Contractors often charge extra for tearing off old siding or making repairs to the structure before they even get to installing the new material. It’s one of those things that can sneak up on you if you’re not prepared.
4. Current Siding Condition
If your siding is in relatively good shape, you might be able to save some money by siding over the existing material. But if it’s damaged, rotting, or falling apart, it will need to be removed first — and that means more work and more expense.
The removal process can add a fair amount to your overall cost, especially if there are underlying issues like water damage or mold. It’s worth having a professional take a look at your current siding so you can get a clear idea of what’s needed.
How Much Does It Cost to Re-Side Different-Sized Homes?
Larger homes naturally require more materials and more labor, which can lead to a higher total bill. Another thing to keep in mind is that the type of siding material you choose can affect the cost more than you think.
For example, a smaller home with an expensive material like stone veneer might end up costing as much as a larger home with a more affordable material like vinyl.
1. Small Home (1,000 sq. ft.)
For a smaller home, re-siding can be a more manageable investment, but it still depends on the material you choose. If you’re working with a 1,000-square-foot home, here’s what you can expect to pay:
- Vinyl Siding: $3,000 to $8,000
- Wood Siding: $5,000 to $10,000
- Fiber Cement Siding: $6,000 to $13,000
- Stone Veneer Siding: $15,000 to $25,000
Smaller homes may seem like a bargain when it comes to re-siding, but even they can rack up costs depending on the siding material.
2. Medium Home (2,000 sq. ft.)
For a medium-sized home, the cost naturally rises as you need more materials and more labor. For a home that’s around 2,000 square feet, the range of costs widens, reflecting different material choices:
- Vinyl Siding: $6,000 to $16,000
- Wood Siding: $10,000 to $20,000
- Fiber Cement Siding: $12,000 to $26,000
- Stone Veneer Siding: $30,000 to $50,000
As you can see, costs increase significantly with a medium-sized home, especially if you opt for premium materials like fiber cement or stone veneer. Vinyl continues to be the most budget-friendly choice, but if you’re going for more style or longevity, be prepared to invest a bit more.
3. Large Home (3,000 sq. ft. or more)
For a large home, you’re looking at a substantial investment. With more surface area to cover, both materials and labor will push the total cost higher. For homes that are 3,000 square feet or more, here’s what you might expect:
- Vinyl Siding: $9,000 to $24,000
- Wood Siding: $15,000 to $30,000
- Fiber Cement Siding: $18,000 to $39,000
- Stone Veneer Siding: $45,000 to $75,000
At this size, the differences in material costs really start to show. While vinyl remains the go-to for keeping costs lower, wood and fiber cement start to get quite expensive, and stone veneer can come with a hefty price tag.
For large homes, every decision about material and installation can make a noticeable difference in your final bill.
Hidden Costs to Watch Out For
Re-siding your home can feel like a well-planned adventure, but sometimes, unexpected costs pop up along the way. These extra costs can catch homeowners off guard, but with a little preparation, you can avoid any surprises.
Here’s a breakdown of some of the common hidden costs that could pop up during your re-siding project.
1. Soffits and Fascia
If your siding project includes replacing the soffits and fascia (the horizontal boards under the roofline and along the edges), you might be looking at an extra cost that wasn’t part of the initial plan. Soffits and fascia aren’t just cosmetic; they play an important role in ventilation and protecting your roofline from the elements.
Replacing these can add between $500 and $2,000 to your total, depending on the size of your home and the material used. Even if your siding is in great shape, worn-out soffits, and fascia can drag down the appearance of your home and lead to potential problems like poor ventilation or water damage.
2. Insulation Upgrades
When you’re re-siding your house, it’s the perfect time to think about upgrading your insulation. While this can add to your costs, it can also lead to long-term savings on your energy bills.
If your home’s current insulation is lacking, adding a new layer of insulation beneath the siding can improve energy efficiency and make your home more comfortable. The cost of installing new insulation typically ranges from $1,000 to $3,000, depending on the size of your home and the type of insulation you choose.
3. Permits and Local Fees
One often overlooked cost is the need for permits before starting your siding project. Depending on where you live, your city or municipality may require a permit for exterior home renovations, and these fees can range from $100 to $500.
It’s not a huge cost, but it’s something you’ll need to handle upfront before work can begin. Permit requirements vary by location, so be sure to check with your local government or contractor to see what’s needed.
4. Repairs to Underlying Structures
When the old siding comes off, there’s always the possibility that you’ll uncover issues you didn’t know about. Hidden water damage, rotting wood, or structural problems can add unexpected costs to your project.
If repairs are needed to the underlying structure of your home, it can add hundreds or even thousands of dollars to the final bill. While you can’t predict what might be lurking under your current siding, it’s a good idea to have a contingency budget for any unexpected repairs.
5. Disposal of Old Siding
Don’t forget about the cost of getting rid of your old siding. Disposal fees for removing and hauling away old materials can range from $500 to $1,500, depending on the size of your home and the type of siding being removed. This is another cost that might not be included in the initial estimate but is something you’ll need to plan for.
It’s easy to overlook disposal fees, but they’re an important part of the overall cost of your siding project. Make sure your contractor includes this in their estimate so you’re not caught off guard when it’s time to clean up.
How to Save on Re-Siding Costs Without Sacrificing Quality
When re-siding your home, you don’t have to sacrifice quality just to save a few bucks. The trick is knowing where you can cut costs smartly and what’s worth spending a little extra on.
Here are a few ways you can save on your siding project without sacrificing quality.
1. Choose the Right Material for Your Budget
One of the easiest ways to control costs is by choosing a material that fits your budget but still offers good performance. Vinyl, for example, is one of the most affordable options and requires little maintenance, making it a smart choice for homeowners who want to save without compromising on durability.
You’ll typically pay between $3 to $8 per square foot for vinyl, which adds up to a reasonable total for most homes. On the other hand, if you’re set on a higher-end material like fiber cement or wood, look for sales or discounts from suppliers.
2. Get Multiple Quotes from Contractors
If you’re hiring a professional, it’s always a good idea to get several quotes before committing. Contractors can vary widely in their pricing, so comparing estimates ensures you’re getting the best deal.
Just make sure each contractor is quoting for the same scope of work and materials so that you’re comparing apples to apples. Don’t just jump at the lowest price, though.
Sometimes, a low bid can be a red flag for subpar work or hidden fees that creep up later. Instead, look for a contractor with solid reviews who offers a fair price and clear terms.
3. Consider Doing Some of the Prep Work Yourself
If you’re comfortable with a little DIY, one way to save on labor costs is by doing some of the prep work yourself. This might include removing the old siding or prepping the surface for installation.
Keep in mind that you’ll want to be careful with this approach, especially if your old siding is damaged or there’s any risk of underlying issues like water damage or mold.
4. Time Your Project for Off-Season Savings
Siding contractors tend to be busiest in the spring and summer, which means prices can be higher during those peak times. If you’re not in a rush, consider scheduling your re-siding project during the fall or winter months when demand is lower.
Contractors may offer discounts or more flexible pricing during their slower seasons, which can save you money without sacrificing the quality of work.
5. Opt for Simple Designs
While elaborate siding patterns or unique architectural features can make your home stand out, they also come with a higher price tag. Complex designs take more time to install and require more materials, which drives up both labor and material costs.
If you’re looking to save, opt for a simpler design that still looks great but doesn’t involve intricate details.
How to Choose the Right Lap Siding for Your California Home
Re-siding your home is an investment in your home’s future which improves energy efficiency, boost curb appeal and protect against the elements. Choosing the right siding material for your home is also about understanding what works best in your region.
For instance, if you live in California, where the weather can range from warm coastal breezes to dry inland heat, picking a siding material that withstands those conditions is important. That’s where understanding how different siding options, like lap siding, fit into your environment becomes relevant.
Your choices for your siding project should reflect what your home needs based on location and lifestyle.
