Alside Ascend Composite Cladding is gaining nationwide attention for its robust durability, contemporary looks, and competitive pricing. Homeowners considering an exterior remodel often compare Alside Ascend siding costs to other siding options. This guide explores what drives Ascend’s price, average installation costs, comparisons to vinyl and fiber cement, ROI potential, and factors influencing overall value. Find below a summary table for easy reference.
| Cost Perspective | Average Price Range | Key Factors |
|---|---|---|
| Material Only ($/sq.ft.) | $6.50 – $9.00 | Color, availability, regional pricing |
| Installed Cost ($/sq.ft.) | $10.50 – $15.50 | Labor, prep work, location, home size |
| Full Home (2,500 sq.ft.) | $26,250 – $38,750 | Trim, removal, upgrades, complexity |
| Compared to Vinyl Siding (Installed) | $7.00 – $12.00/sq.ft. | Vinyl is often lower; less durability |
| Compared to Fiber Cement (Installed) | $11.00 – $15.50/sq.ft. | Similar to slightly higher than Ascend |
What Is Alside Ascend Siding?
Alside Ascend Siding is a proprietary composite cladding solution made from glass-reinforced polymer and graphite-infused polystyrene. Unlike traditional vinyl or fiber cement, Ascend is engineered for weather resistance, insulation, and low-maintenance appeal. The product replicates authentic wood-grain texture but outperforms wood in durability and upkeep. Sold in multiple colors and designed for rapid installation, Ascend is targeted at homeowners seeking style and performance.
How Much Does Alside Ascend Siding Cost Per Square Foot?
The most common question is: What does Alside Ascend siding cost per square foot? Nationally, material costs range between $6.50 and $9.00 per square foot depending on location, distributor markup, and color selection. When factoring in professional installation, the average total cost rises to $10.50 to $15.50 per square foot. Homes with complex architecture or custom colors may see cost at the higher end of this range.
Installation Costs: What’s Included?
Installation costs vary based on regional labor rates, home square footage, and the job’s complexity. A basic package typically covers:
- Removal/disposal of old siding
- Wall prep, sheathing, and moisture barriers
- Material delivery and layout
- Cutting, fitting, and securing Ascend panels
- Edge trims, corner caps, and finishing details
- Site clean-up and debris removal
Expect installation labor alone to account for $4.00 to $7.00 per sq.ft. for most single-family homes.
Full Project: Average Installed Costs For A Typical Home
For a 2,500 square foot exterior, the installed cost of Alside Ascend usually falls between $26,250 and $38,750. Costs can be higher on multistory homes or where extensive removal and prep are needed. The table below illustrates typical project scenarios for different home sizes:
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| Home Size (Sq. Ft. of Siding) | Installed Cost Range |
|---|---|
| 1,500 | $15,750 – $23,250 |
| 2,000 | $21,000 – $31,000 |
| 2,500 | $26,250 – $38,750 |
| 3,000 | $31,500 – $46,500 |
Breaking Down Alside Ascend Siding Cost Drivers
Material Choices
Color and finish selection influence cost, with premium and darker hues often commanding a small upcharge. The availability of trim and accessories in specific colors can also impact the final quote.
Project Scope
Larger and more complex homes require more cuts, waste, and labor, increasing the per-square-foot price slightly. Curved or multi-level facades also add to installation effort.
Regional Pricing
Labor costs are higher in urban and coastal regions. Areas with multiple distributors may see more competitive pricing on materials.
Removal And Prep Work
Old siding removal and wall repair carry extra fees—any underlying wood rot or insect damage drives up pricing. Homeowners should allow for a 10-15% contingency budget if the home is older.
Alside Ascend Siding: Cost Compared To Other Siding Options
How does Alside Ascend stack up against other popular siding materials? See the competitive summary below:
| Siding Product | Installed Cost Range ($/Sq. Ft.) | Notable Pros | Main Cons |
|---|---|---|---|
| Alside Ascend | $10.50 – $15.50 | High durability, no-paint composite, strong insulation, true wood look | Higher upfront cost than vinyl |
| Vinyl Siding | $7.00 – $12.00 | Lowest maintenance, broad color range, affordable | Less impact-resistant, color fade risk |
| Fiber Cement (James Hardie) | $11.00 – $15.50 | Fire resistance, rot/insect proof, wood appearance | Heavier, costlier install, periodic painting |
| Engineered Wood (LP SmartSide) | $9.50 – $14.00 | Striking wood look, easier install than fiber cement | Requires paint upkeep, less moisture resistance |
| Natural Wood | $12.00 – $19.00 | Premium curb appeal, classic aesthetic | High maintenance, rot/pest risk, expensive |
Factors Impacting Regional Economics
Alside Ascend prices by region can differ significantly. Urban environments like New York or Los Angeles command above-average labor rates. Areas where composite cladding is newer may see slightly higher distributor markups, while parts of the Midwest and Southeast generally offer lower installed prices.
Labor Rates And Availability
Markets with high construction demand or limited siding contractors can drive up prices. Off-season installations (late fall or early spring) might provide discounts in non-freezing climates.
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Design Choices And Upgrade Options
Alside Ascend offers a wide range of colors and trim options, allowing homeowners to pair siding with matching soffits, corners, and moldings. Each enhancement slightly increases both material and install labor cost.
Longevity And Warranty Benefits
One reason for Ascend’s value is its lifetime limited warranty for original owners and a 50-year transferable provision. This protection covers weathering, peeling, cracking, and major fading, which outshines many basic vinyl warranties. Less maintenance and fewer repairs can offset the higher installation cost over the years.
Return On Investment (ROI) With Alside Ascend Siding
Remodeling Magazine and other industry studies show that siding replacements typically recoup 70%–80% of their cost at resale. Homes with high-quality, modern composite cladding often stand out and sell faster compared to cheaper vinyl or aging wood. Energy efficiency improvements can also enhance ROI if Ascend’s insulating core reduces HVAC costs.
Cost Of Ownership Compared To Other Products
| Siding Type | Avg. Initial Cost (2,000 sq.ft.) | Lifetime Maintenance (30 yrs) | Warranty Protection |
|---|---|---|---|
| Alside Ascend | $21,000 – $31,000 | Minimal – Periodic washing | Lifetime/50-year transfer |
| Vinyl Siding | $14,000 – $24,000 | Minimal – Periodic washing | 20–40 years |
| Fiber Cement | $22,000 – $31,000 | Paint every 8–12 years | 30–50 years |
| Engineered Wood | $19,000 – $28,000 | Repaint every 5–8 years | 30 years |
| Natural Wood | $24,000 – $38,000 | Paint/stain every 3–7 years | Varies |
Additional Cost Considerations: Accessories And Custom Work
- Trim boards, window wraps, and accent panels can add $3–$7 per linear foot.
- Insulation upgrades or rainscreen systems may add $1–$2 per sq.ft.
- Permit fees, site access, and landscaping repairs are often extra and can add $500–$2,500 to the job.
Who Installs Alside Ascend Siding?
Alside teams with certified local contractors across the U.S. Homeowners should request quotes from multiple pros familiar with composite cladding. Ask for references and verify experience with Ascend installations to ensure proper fit and finish.
Key Benefits That Influence Cost And Value
- Durability: No chipping, warping, or rot means less maintenance and repairs.
- Insulation: Ascend’s graphite core improves thermal resistance over basic vinyl.
- Weather Performance: Exceptionally wind- and hail-resistant, which reduces storm-related replacement needs.
- Appearance: Realistic wood aesthetics boost curb appeal and home value without ongoing paint costs.
- Warranty: Lifetime/50-year coverage provides peace of mind and may enhance resale.
Recommended Steps For Homeowners Considering Ascend
- Use online home exterior calculators to estimate total Ascend siding costs
- Request 2–4 detailed quotes that breakdown materials, labor, removal, and extras
- Examine warranty terms, cleanup charges, and project timeline before signing a contract
- Ask about financing or seasonal discounts that may help offset initial investment
- Compare total cost-of-ownership—account for future maintenance savings versus upfront price
Real-World Pricing Examples (Case Studies)
Pricing can also change based on market and home design. Real-world examples help set expectations:
- Midwest Ranch (1,800 sq.ft): Complete Ascend project, including removal and new trim: $19,800 (about $11/sq.ft.)
- Florida Two-Story (2,900 sq.ft.): Premium color, high-wind zone, with all new soffits: $42,000 ($14.48/sq.ft.)
- Pacific Northwest Cape Cod (2,200 sq.ft.): Moderate removal needs, basic trim: $24,800 ($11.27/sq.ft.)
Note: Prices vary by contractor, season, and market demand.
Is Alside Ascend Worth The Investment?
For many, the slightly higher initial cost of Alside Ascend siding is offset by the system’s long-term durability, warranty, and elevated curb appeal. Homeowners get peace of mind with low maintenance, strong insulation properties, and standout looks that can outlast and outperform standard vinyl. Review all cost factors, request itemized bids, and weigh against local housing values to make an informed choice.