Craneboard siding is a premium insulated vinyl siding option sought after for its durability, curb appeal, and energy savings. When considering craneboard siding for home improvement, understanding the total cost—including product, installation, and ongoing value—helps homeowners make informed decisions. This guide covers the average craneboard siding cost, explores what shapes pricing, and compares craneboard to similar exterior products.
| Cost Aspect | Average Price Range | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Material (Craneboard Only) | $5 – $10 per sq. ft. | Craneboard panels in basic to premium styles and finishes. |
| Installation (Labor) | $2 – $6 per sq. ft. | Professional labor, removal of old siding, and finish work. |
| Total Installed Cost | $7,000 – $20,000+ | Complete for a 2,000 sq. ft. home; varies by location and complexity. |
| Maintenance & Longevity | Low Annual Cost | Minimal maintenance, potential energy savings over time. |
What Is Craneboard Siding?
Craneboard siding is an insulated vinyl siding produced by Westlake Royal Building Products. Unlike traditional vinyl, craneboard features a rigid foam backing for improved energy efficiency and impact resistance. Available in horizontal lap, board & batten, and shake styles, it comes in a range of realistic woodgrain finishes designed for high curb appeal.
Average Craneboard Siding Cost Per Square Foot
The average cost for craneboard siding materials is between $5 and $10 per square foot. This price depends on the choice of profile, color, and additional performance features. Installation costs typically add $2 to $6 per square foot, depending on local labor rates and job complexity.
| Cost Component | Low | High |
|---|---|---|
| Craneboard Siding Panels | $5 | $10 |
| Professional Installation | $2 | $6 |
| Total | $7 | $16 |
For a typical 2,000-square-foot home exterior, total installed cost ranges from $14,000 to $32,000. Costs vary widely based on region, house shape, and chosen siding style.
Factors That Influence Craneboard Siding Cost
Material Grade And Profile
Basic craneboard lap siding is generally at the lower end of the price spectrum. Higher-end options, like board & batten or craneboard shakes, carry a premium due to additional manufacturing complexity and authentic woodgrain finishes.
Home Size And Design Complexity
Larger homes or those with complex exteriors—such as multiple stories, intricate rooflines, or many windows—require more material and labor, increasing overall cost.
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Removal And Disposal Of Old Siding
Removing existing siding (wood, aluminum, etc.) can add $1,000 to $3,000 to project costs, depending on material type and accessibility.
Geographical Location
Installation costs vary by region. Coastal or high-cost-of-living areas typically see higher labor rates, raising total project price. Midwest and Southern U.S. locations tend to offer lower professional siding installation costs.
Additional Features And Trim
Decorative trim, soffit, fascia, and insulation upgrades will increase overall craneboard siding cost. Custom colors, specialty shapes, and coordinated accessories are priced separately.
Detailed Cost Breakdown: Itemized Table
| Item | Average Cost | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Craneboard Lap Siding (per sq. ft.) | $5 – $8 | Standard horizontal plank; price varies by thickness and color. |
| Craneboard Board & Batten (per sq. ft.) | $7 – $10 | Vertical siding with distinct shadow lines; premium finish. |
| Craneboard Shake (per sq. ft.) | $7 – $10 | Textured to mimic cedar shakes; high curb appeal. |
| Starter Strips & Trim (per linear ft.) | $2 – $5 | Required for all corners, doors, and windows. |
| Fascia, Soffit, Accessories | $500 – $1,500 total | Covers eaves, rooflines, and details for a finished appearance. |
| Labor (Installation) | $2 – $6 per sq. ft. | Includes prep, installation, finishing, and site cleanup. |
| Old Siding Removal | $1,000 – $3,000 | Depends on siding type and disposal fees. |
| Permits & Inspections | $200 – $800 | Required in most municipalities for exterior renovations. |
Craneboard Siding Cost Comparison: Vinyl, Fiber Cement, And Wood
Craneboard insulated vinyl siding sits at the higher end of vinyl siding costs, but it often provides better energy efficiency and durability. Comparing craneboard cost to other materials helps clarify value:
| Siding Type | Material Cost (sq. ft.) | Total Installed Cost (sq. ft.) | Main Benefits | Main Drawbacks |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Craneboard (Insulated Vinyl) | $5 – $10 | $7 – $16 | Energy efficient, low maintenance, impact resistant | Higher up-front cost vs. standard vinyl |
| Standard Vinyl | $2 – $5 | $4 – $9 | Affordable, wide range of colors, low maintenance | Less insulation, can crack in harsh weather |
| Fiber Cement (James Hardie, etc.) | $5 – $10 | $9 – $15 | Fire resistant, very durable, wood look | Requires painting, heavier installation |
| Engineered Wood | $4 – $8 | $8 – $13 | Natural look, impact resistant | Prone to moisture damage, ongoing maintenance |
| Natural Wood | $6 – $12 | $10 – $18 | Classic appearance, customizable | High maintenance, requires regular painting/staining |
While craneboard’s installation costs are slightly higher than basic vinyl, its improved energy efficiency and durability could lower utility and upkeep costs over the life of the product.
Professional Installation Vs. DIY: Cost Considerations
Professional installation is strongly recommended for craneboard siding because insulated panels need precise fitment and proper weatherproofing. Mistakes can result in water intrusion or warranty issues. While DIY installation can save $2–$6 per square foot in labor, risk of costly errors is high without specialized tools and skills.
- DIY Cost: Material only ($5–$10 per sq. ft.), but rarely recommended for full homes.
- Pro Installer: Adds $2–$6 per sq. ft.; often includes removal of existing siding, surface prep, and warranty coverage.
Region-Specific Craneboard Siding Costs
Location affects both labor rates and materials cost for craneboard installations. On the East and West Coasts, higher overall project prices are common due to elevated labor and disposal fees. In the Midwest and South, homeowners may pay 10%–25% less for the same project size.
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| Region | Labor Cost (per sq. ft.) | Estimated Installed Cost (2,000 sq. ft. home) |
|---|---|---|
| Northeast | $5 – $6 | $16,000 – $25,000 |
| Southeast | $3 – $4 | $12,000 – $19,000 |
| Midwest | $3 – $5 | $13,000 – $20,000 |
| West Coast | $5 – $6 | $16,000 – $26,000 |
Warranty, Maintenance, And Long-Term Value
Craneboard siding comes with limited lifetime warranties from manufacturers, often transferable to future homeowners. Maintenance costs are minimal: cleaning with mild soap and water, occasional inspection, and no need for painting or sealing, unlike wood or fiber cement.
Energy-efficient insulated siding can reduce heating and cooling costs by 5%–20% depending on local climate and home age, adding to long-term savings and resale value.
Craneboard Siding Color And Style Options: Do They Affect Cost?
Craneboard is available in dozens of colors and several styles, including traditional lap, Dutch lap, board & batten, and shake. While most standard colors are included in base pricing, custom hues, extra deep profiles, or high-end finishes often add $0.50 to $1.50 per sq. ft. to materials cost.
- Standard Colors: Included in base price.
- Custom/Designer Colors: Additional $1–$2 per sq. ft.
- Shake/Board & Batten: Adds $1–$2 per sq. ft. over basic lap style.
Energy Efficiency Savings With Craneboard Siding
Insulated craneboard panels can increase a home’s R-value by up to 22%. This translates to greater indoor comfort, less thermal bridging, and potential savings of $200–$500 per year, especially in climates with extreme temperatures. Some utility companies offer rebates for installing qualifying insulated siding products.
Return On Investment: Boosting Home Value
According to Remodeling Magazine’s Cost vs. Value Report, homeowners typically recover 70%–80% of siding project costs in resale value, especially when premium products like craneboard are chosen. Curb appeal, lower ongoing costs, and warranty transferability make craneboard an attractive feature for buyers.
Key Questions To Ask When Pricing Craneboard Siding
- What is included in the contractor’s estimate? (materials, labor, trim, old siding removal)
- Are permits and debris removal covered?
- Which warranty applies—product, installation, or both?
- How will the project’s complexity affect the final price?
- Can energy rebates or financing help offset the up-front cost?
Sample Project Estimates: Real-World Scenarios
| Project Scenario | Total Sq. Ft. | Material Cost | Labor Cost | Total Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Small Ranch (basic lap, Midwest) | 1,500 | $9,750 | $4,500 | $14,250 |
| Two-Story Colonial (shake, Northeast) | 2,200 | $17,600 | $11,000 | $28,600 |
| Contemporary (board & batten, West Coast, custom color) | 2,000 | $20,000 | $10,000 | $30,000 |
Ways To Save On Craneboard Siding Costs
- Obtain multiple quotes from local installers to ensure competitive pricing.
- Schedule installation during the offseason (late fall/early spring) when demand is lower, possibly yielding a discount.
- Bundle siding with other exterior projects (roof, windows) for volume deals.
- Ask about manufacturer rebates or promotions, especially related to energy efficiency.
- Prioritize standard colors and styles for better value.
Summary: Is Craneboard Siding Worth The Cost?
Craneboard siding offers a combination of durability, insulation, and curb appeal that can justify its higher up-front expense compared to standard vinyl. With low maintenance, long-term energy savings, and high resale value, many American homeowners view craneboard as a smart investment—even as project costs typically range from $14,000 to $32,000 for a mid-sized home. Always compare itemized quotes and consider the unique factors of your property to determine real value.