Siding Cost / Cost to Side a House (2026 Guide)
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Get free quotesHow much does siding cost?
Siding is priced per square foot of exterior wall (an average home has roughly 1,500–2,500 sq ft of siding surface). Total installed cost averages about $11,000, ranging $5,000–$20,000+ by material:
| Siding material | Installed cost per sq ft | Typical total (avg home) | Lifespan |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vinyl | $3 – $8 | $5,000 – $14,000 | 20–40 years |
| Engineered wood | $4 – $9 | $7,000 – $16,000 | 20–30 years |
| Fiber cement (e.g. James Hardie) | $5 – $13 | $8,000 – $22,000 | 30–50 years |
| Wood (cedar) | $6 – $12 | $9,000 – $20,000 | 20–40 years (with upkeep) |
| Metal (steel/aluminum) | $4 – $12 | $7,000 – $20,000 | 40+ years |
| Brick / stone veneer | $10 – $25 | $15,000 – $45,000+ | 50+ years |
Cost to side a house by size
| Home size | Approx. siding area | Vinyl cost | Fiber cement cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1,000 sq ft | ~1,000 sq ft | $4,000 – $8,000 | $6,000 – $13,000 |
| 1,500 sq ft | ~1,500 sq ft | $5,500 – $12,000 | $8,000 – $19,000 |
| 2,000 sq ft | ~2,000 sq ft | $7,000 – $16,000 | $10,000 – $26,000 |
| 2,500 sq ft | ~2,500 sq ft | $9,000 – $20,000 | $13,000 – $32,000 |
What affects siding cost?
- Material — the biggest factor (see tables above).
- Home size & number of stories: more surface area and height mean more labor and safety equipment.
- Removal of old siding: tear-off and disposal add cost.
- Trim, corners & architectural detail: complex facades take longer.
- Insulation & house wrap: adding insulated backing raises cost but improves energy efficiency.
- Repairs: rotted sheathing or moisture damage found during removal.
Pro tip from our network contractors
Don't skip the house wrap and proper flashing to save a few hundred dollars. Moisture behind the siding is what destroys the wall — the barrier is cheap insurance.
James Hardie (fiber cement) vs. vinyl siding
Vinyl is cheaper upfront ($3–$8/sq ft), low-maintenance, and widely available. Fiber cement (James Hardie) costs more ($5–$13/sq ft) but is more durable, fire-resistant, and holds paint longer — often with strong resale appeal. If budget is the priority, vinyl wins; if longevity and curb appeal matter most, fiber cement is usually worth the premium.
Does new siding add value?
Siding replacement is consistently one of the highest-ROI exterior projects, often recouping a large share of its cost at resale because it dramatically improves curb appeal and signals a well-maintained home. Energy-efficient insulated siding can also lower heating and cooling bills.
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Get free quotesFrequently asked questions
How much does it cost to side a house in 2026?
New siding costs $5,000–$20,000 installed, about $11,000 for an average home. Vinyl is cheapest ($3–$8/sq ft); fiber cement runs $5–$13/sq ft.
What is the cheapest siding option?
Vinyl siding is the most affordable at $3–$8 per square foot installed, while still offering 20–40 years of life and low maintenance.
How much does James Hardie / fiber cement siding cost?
Fiber cement siding costs $5–$13 per square foot installed, or roughly $8,000–$22,000 for an average home — more than vinyl, but more durable and fire-resistant.
How long does siding last?
Vinyl lasts 20–40 years, fiber cement 30–50 years, and brick or stone veneer 50+ years, depending on climate and maintenance.
Is it worth replacing siding?
Yes — siding replacement is one of the best exterior investments for curb appeal and resale value, and insulated options can reduce energy bills.
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