Replacing the siding on your house is not cheap. However, it can dramatically improve the look of your home. Plus, it can be a great investment. The cost for house siding can be incorporated while installing it, repairing it, and/or completely replacing it. To replace a house siding, costs will vary with material(s), finish quality, amount of surface area, number of windows and doors, preparation and special needs, and, finally, the labor rate.
Cost Factors to Consider
When estimating the overall cost of siding, factors typically include the shape(s) of the area(s) to be covered as well as the amount of overall area that needs covering. Materials and labor for siding are usually priced by the square foot. The larger your house, the more you’ll pay to have your siding replaced. If your home has a unique shape it will require more detailed work and cost you more for installation. Your location might also affect the cost of replacing your siding, especially if your house is located in a remote area.
The more well-to-do your region, the more you can expect to pay. Next, you should consider the cost of materials, which can vary greatly depending on quality. Vinyl siding is the most popular material, and it is relatively cheap, costing an average of $2-to-$7 per square foot, including installation. Meanwhile, if you choose a synthetic stone, it will set you back an average of $12-to-$25 per square foot, including installation. In the end, you need to incorporate the entire cost of removing and disposing of your old siding in your budget, too.
When it comes to replacing the entire siding, you need professional siding contractors. Siding replacement is often necessary due to underlying dry rot or moisture problems. Your total siding cost estimation starts with your choice of siding.
Vinyl, as you know, is the most popular siding option, but you can also opt for wood or aluminum. Aluminum siding has approximately the same price as vinyl, while fiber cement siding costs twice as much.
Cost of Removing Old Siding
Before installing your new siding, you need to remove the old siding. This isn’t a huge cost but can add up to $1,000-to-$3,000 for an average-sized home. Some experts suggest that removing old siding will add about 5 percent to your overall project cost. It is essential that you keep this expense in mind when budgeting for new siding. If you’re trying to figure out how much removing your siding will cost, you can ask your contractors and get the estimate.
When To Replace Siding
If you plan to sell your home, your real estate agent might tell you to replace your siding as a way to increase property value and sell the house quickly. While improved appearance is one common reason for siding replacement, it’s just the beginning — there are several scenarios which require a house siding repair or replacement.
Does your current siding have damage(s)? Start by walking away from your home. If you notice any missing panels, significant color fading, or other obvious damage, it’s time to consider a repair or a replacement. If the damage is beyond repair, then you can consider replacing it.
Get close to your home for a more detailed inspection. Look for mold or mildew — which could indicate a water problem — and try to pull the siding away from your house. If the piece bends easily or begins to warp, it’s past its prime and needs to be changed.
Finally, take the time to inspect your siding and see if you can identify large cracks, dents, or holes. As a general rule, if more than half of your siding has this kind of damage, you should consider a total replacement.
Various Important Considerations When Replacing The Siding:
- Add all taxes and permit fees into your budget.
- When new siding is mounted on top of existing siding, you save removal costs.
- Include wall insulation cost. It can be upgraded by placing sheathing material beneath the new siding or adding other installations inside the opened exterior wall.
- The contractor should inform the homeowner of any and all issues found during the inspection, such as mold or insect infestations or necessary structural repair.
- Considering the wall height. If it is less than 10 feet, the cost of siding is less.
Summary:
By now, you know more about the costs of siding repair and you’re in a better position to optimize your budget. Remember to always inquire about extra charges or fees and always get a quote in writing to avoid payment issues once the work is done. Before you choose the siding material, you must know that new siding isn’t overly cheap… that said, a high-quality product, installed properly, can provide decades of use. The best siding materials will make your home more beautiful and functional by keeping the elements out, reducing energy costs, and boosting the curb appeal of your house. Whether you hire a professional to take on the task or do it yourself, never underestimate the value of siding repair.