Siding Cost Guide 2026
What to expect to pay, what drives costs up or down, and how to get an accurate estimate.
Typical cost
$8,000 – $28,000per project
Cost varies by home size, material choice, and whether existing siding and house wrap need to be removed. Vinyl siding runs $3–6 per square foot installed; fiber cement (James Hardie HardiePlank) $6–13; engineered wood $5–10; premium materials like steel or cedar run higher. Additional costs: house wrap replacement $0.50–1.00 per square foot, trim work $500–2,000, disposal of old siding $300–800, permit fees $150–400. Multi-story homes add scaffolding labor cost. Insulated vinyl adds 15–25% to vinyl cost but improves wall thermal performance. Get at least three written estimates specifying exact product, thickness, house wrap, and included warranties.
What affects siding cost
Cost varies by home size, material choice, and whether existing siding and house wrap need to be removed. Vinyl siding runs $3–6 per square foot installed; fiber cement (James Hardie HardiePlank) $6–13; engineered wood $5–10; premium materials like steel or cedar run higher. Additional costs: house wrap replacement $0.50–1.00 per square foot, trim work $500–2,000, disposal of old siding $300–800, permit fees $150–400. Multi-story homes add scaffolding labor cost. Insulated vinyl adds 15–25% to vinyl cost but improves wall thermal performance. Get at least three written estimates specifying exact product, thickness, house wrap, and included warranties.
About siding projects
Exterior cladding protects your home's structure and insulation from wind, rain, and temperature swings. Choosing the right siding material and a qualified installer keeps your home energy-efficient and maintenance-free for decades. Vinyl siding is the most popular choice across the US for its low maintenance and competitive cost. Fiber cement siding (such as HardiePlank) offers superior durability, fire resistance, and a more authentic wood look. Wood, engineered wood, and stucco are regional favorites in certain climates and architectural styles. Most municipalities require a building permit for full siding replacement, and a reputable contractor will include permit fees in their estimate. What lies beneath the siding matters as much as the siding itself. Before new material goes on, contractors should inspect the existing house wrap or building paper — the moisture barrier between the siding and your wall sheathing. Damaged or absent house wrap allows moisture infiltration that can rot wall framing from inside, creating a far more expensive problem than the siding itself. Insulated vinyl siding adds rigid foam backing that improves your wall thermal performance. When comparing estimates, ask each contractor to specify the house wrap product, fastener type, and whether trim around windows and doors is included — these details separate thorough installations from shortcuts.
How to keep siding costs in check
- ✓Ask contractors to specify the exact product name, manufacturer, thickness, and finish in their bid.
- ✓Confirm the bid includes removal of existing siding, disposal, and house wrap or moisture barrier.
- ✓Verify the contractor is licensed and carries current general liability insurance.
- ✓Ask about the manufacturer product warranty and the contractor's installation warranty separately.
- ✓Confirm they pull the required permit from your local building department.
- ✓Request references from similar projects completed in your area in the last two years.
Cost FAQ
What is the average cost of siding work?
The average cost ranges from $8,000 to $28,000 per project. Cost varies by home size, material choice, and whether existing siding and house wrap need to be removed. Vinyl siding runs $3–6 per square foot installed; fiber cement (James Hardie HardiePlank) $6–13; engineered wood $5–10; premium materials like steel or cedar run higher. Additional costs: house wrap replacement $0.50–1.00 per square foot, trim work $500–2,000, disposal of old siding $300–800, permit fees $150–400. Multi-story homes add scaffolding labor cost. Insulated vinyl adds 15–25% to vinyl cost but improves wall thermal performance. Get at least three written estimates specifying exact product, thickness, house wrap, and included warranties.
Why do contractor estimates vary so much?
Material quality, project complexity, local labor rates, and contractor overhead all affect pricing. A 30–50% variance between bids on the same project usually means different scopes — get line-item estimates and compare carefully.
How can I lower the cost without sacrificing quality?
Schedule during off-peak times (spring and fall are busiest for most trades). Get 3+ competing bids. Avoid making scope changes after work starts. Supply your own materials if you can find better pricing (discuss with contractor first).
Does homeowner's insurance cover this work?
Typically only if the damage is sudden and accidental (storm, fire, burst pipe). Routine maintenance, wear and tear, and improvements are not covered. Check your policy for specifics.
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