What to consider when looking at your siding cost estimate
What to consider when getting a siding cost estimate is far more than just the final number at the bottom of the page. A new siding installation is one of the most significant investments you can make in your home’s curb appeal, energy efficiency, and overall protection. However, the price for this crucial upgrade can vary dramatically. Understanding the key factors that influence the final price will empower you to compare quotes accurately, avoid hidden fees, and make a confident decision for your home.
This guide will break down the essential components that make up a professional siding cost estimate so you know exactly what you’re paying for.
Key Factors Influencing Your Siding Cost Estimate
A comprehensive quote is a detailed document, not just a single figure. Here are the primary variables that will determine the scope and cost of your project.
The Siding Material Itself
The material you choose is the single most significant factor in your siding cost estimate. Each option offers a different balance of aesthetics, durability, and price.
Vinyl: The most affordable option, vinyl is low-maintenance and available in a wide range of colors. However, it can crack in extreme temperatures and may not offer a premium look.
Fiber Cement (e.g., James Hardie): A popular choice, especially here in the Pacific Northwest. Fiber cement is highly durable, resistant to rot, insects, and fire, and can mimic the look of natural wood. It sits in the mid-to-high price range.
Natural Wood: Cedar and other woods provide a classic, beautiful aesthetic. They are expensive and require regular maintenance (staining or painting) to prevent rot and weather damage.
Engineered Wood: A more budget-friendly alternative to natural wood, this material offers a similar look but with greater resistance to moisture and pests.
Metal (Steel or Aluminum): Very durable, low-maintenance, and modern-looking. It’s a higher-end option often used for contemporary home designs.
The Size and Complexity of Your Home
It’s simple math: a larger home requires more material and more labor, increasing the cost. But it’s not just about square footage. The architectural complexity of your home plays a significant role. A simple, one-story rectangular house will be far less expensive to side than a three-story home with numerous gables, dormers, corners, and intricate angles. These features require precise cuts and a more time-consuming installation, which drives up labor costs.
Labor Costs and Installation
Labor can account for 40-60% of your total siding cost estimate. A reputable contractor’s price reflects their team’s skill, insurance, and experience. This part of the estimate should cover:
Tear-off and Disposal: The cost of removing your old siding and properly disposing of the material. This is often an itemized line on the quote. Preparation: Repairing any minor damage to the sheathing underneath the old siding. Installation: The physical act of cutting and fastening the new siding, which varies based on the material’s difficulty to work with.
Underlayment and Insulation
What goes underneath the siding is just as important as the siding itself. A quality siding job includes a weather-resistant barrier (house wrap) that protects the sheathing from moisture. This is also the perfect time to add a layer of rigid foam insulation to the exterior of your home. While this adds to the upfront cost, it can significantly enhance your home’s energy efficiency, resulting in long-term savings on heating and cooling bills.
Finishing Touches: Soffits, Fascia, and Trim
The siding panels are the main event, but the job isn’t complete without the finishing touches. Your siding cost estimate should also detail the cost for new soffits (the underside of your roof’s eaves), fascia (the board that faces outward), and trim around windows and doors. Using materials that complement your new siding is key to a polished, professional look.
How to Compare Siding Estimates Like a Pro
Now that you know what goes into the price, you can properly evaluate the quotes you receive.
Get at Least Three Estimates: Don’t just take the first offer. Getting multiple quotes from licensed, bonded, and insured contractors will give you a clear sense of the fair market rate for your project. Demand an Itemized Quote: Reject any estimate that is just a single number. A professional quote will break down the costs for materials, labor, disposal, permits, and any additional features like trim or insulation. This allows you to compare apples to apples. Ask About Warranties: A quality job will be backed by two warranties: one from the siding manufacturer covering the material itself, and one from the contractor covering the workmanship of the installation.
Ultimately, a siding cost estimate is a blueprint for your home’s future protection and beauty. By understanding these core components, you are well-equipped to ask the right questions and choose a contractor who will deliver lasting value for your investment.
Why Choose High Performance Homes?
High Performance Homes stands out as a top choice for your home’s siding replacement needs. Our A+ rating from the BBB is a reflection of our dedication to providing the best products and services to our customers. Whether you need roofing, siding, windows or a bath, you can trust High Performance Homes to deliver exceptional results. And, in many cases, your replacement is better than new.
