Replacing vinyl siding with Hardie Board is a popular upgrade for American homes, offering improved durability, fire resistance, and curb appeal. However, the cost to switch from vinyl to fiber cement varies greatly depending on factors like home size, region, and project complexity. This guide breaks down all essential cost factors, provides real-life averages, and helps homeowners estimate the investment needed for a Hardie Board siding transformation.
| Cost Perspective | Average Range | Key Considerations |
|---|---|---|
| Siding Material | $5.00 – $12.00 per sq. ft. | Hardie Board (fiber cement), various styles & finishes |
| Labor (Installation) | $3.00 – $8.00 per sq. ft. | Local labor rates and siding complexity |
| Removal Of Existing Vinyl Siding | $1,000 – $3,500 (per project) | Home size and disposal fees |
| Total Job Cost (Typical Home) | $12,000 – $34,000 | Single-family homes (1,500 – 2,500 sqft) |
What Is Hardie Board And Why Replace Vinyl Siding?
Hardie Board, a branded fiber cement siding product, is renowned for its strength, fire resistance, and wood-like aesthetics. Compared to standard vinyl siding, Hardie Board offers enhanced longevity and better protection against the elements, pests, and fire. Many homeowners upgrade to Hardie Board for its impact resistance, design versatility, and superior ROI.
Factors Influencing The Cost To Replace Vinyl Siding With Hardie Board
1. Home Size And Siding Square Footage
Total exterior wall area directly impacts the project’s total cost, as Hardie Board materials and labor are calculated per square foot. Larger or more complex homes with multiple stories, architectural details, or gables require additional material and increased labor hours, escalating costs.
2. Material Choices: Hardie Board Products, Finishes, And Accessories
The type of Hardie Board product (plank lap, shingle, panel), finish (pre-painted, primed), and required accessories (flashing, soffits, trim) all affect your budget. Hardie Board’s ColorPlus Technology (factory pre-finished boards) typically increases material costs but reduces onsite painting expenses.
3. Labor Costs Based On Region And Project Complexity
Labor rates fluctuate by region and job difficulty. Installing fiber cement is heavier and requires specialized tools and skills, leading to higher labor fees than vinyl. Intricate architectural features, multi-story setups, and job-site access can further drive up labor costs.
4. Removal And Disposal Of Existing Vinyl Siding
Removing your current vinyl siding adds to total project costs through demolition, disposal, and prep for new material. Disposal fees vary depending on local regulations, landfill costs, and contractor practices. Homes with underlying damage or repairs will see higher removal and prep expenses.
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5. House Prep, Repairs, And Building Code Requirements
Older homes or those with water damage may need sheathing, insulation, or framing repairs before installation can begin. Local building codes or HOA rules may dictate siding material, color, or installation methods, leading to additional costs for compliance.
Detailed Cost Breakdown By Perspective
| Perspective | Typical Cost | What’s Included |
|---|---|---|
| Materials Only | $7,500 – $20,000 | Hardie Board planks/panels, trim, fasteners for 1,500–2,500 sq. ft. |
| Labor Only | $4,500 – $12,000 | Installation fees, including cutting and fitting |
| Old Siding Removal & Disposal | $1,000 – $3,500 | Demolition, haul-away, environmental fees |
| Painting (if not prefinished) | $1.00 – $3.00 per sq. ft. | Onsite painting or staining of new boards |
| Repair Work (Prep) | $500 – $4,000 | Sheathing repair, insulation, or moisture barrier work |
| Total Turnkey Project | $12,000 – $34,000 | All labor, materials, removal, repairs, and finish for average home |
Cost Comparison: Hardie Board Vs. Other Siding Options
| Siding Material | Average Installed Cost (per sq. ft.) | Lifespan | Maintenance Needs |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vinyl | $3.50 – $7.50 | 20 – 30 years | Low |
| Hardie Board (Fiber Cement) | $8.00 – $20.00 | 30 – 50+ years | Moderate |
| Natural Wood | $8.00 – $18.00 | 20 – 40 years | High |
| Engineered Wood | $7.00 – $13.00 | 20 – 30 years | Moderate |
| Stucco | $6.00 – $16.00 | 50+ years | Moderate |
While Hardie Board is costlier upfront than vinyl, its durability and curb appeal can offset long-term maintenance costs and boost resale value.
Regional Differences In Siding Replacement Costs
Replacing vinyl siding with Hardie Board is often more expensive in metropolitan areas with high labor rates (e.g., the Northeast, West Coast, or high-demand urban centers). Rural regions may see lower labor and material delivery costs. Additionally, climate can impact the type of Hardie product used and the need for moisture or insulation upgrades.
| Region | Average Installed Cost (2,000 sq. ft. home) |
|---|---|
| West Coast (CA, WA, OR) | $18,000 – $34,000 |
| Midwest | $15,000 – $28,000 |
| Northeast | $16,500 – $32,000 |
| South | $12,000 – $27,000 |
| Mountain States | $14,000 – $30,000 |
Hardie Board Siding Types And Their Cost Impact
Homeowners can choose from several styles of Hardie Board, each with its own price point and aesthetic value. Lap siding (the classic horizontal plank look) and HardiePanel (vertical sheets) are most common, while HardieShingle and specialty trims offer higher-end finishes at a premium.
| Product Type | Material Cost Range (per sq. ft.) | Characteristics |
|---|---|---|
| HardiePlank Lap Siding | $5.00 – $8.75 | Classic horizontal layout, most popular |
| HardiePanel Vertical Siding | $6.00 – $10.00 | Modern vertical lines, contemporary aesthetic |
| HardieShingle Siding | $7.50 – $13.00 | Resembles cedar shake, higher-end |
| Trim & Accessories | $1.00 – $3.00 | Joints, soffits, fascia, corner boards |
Cost Variables When Replacing Old Vinyl With Hardie Board
- Disposal Fees: Contractors may charge $500 – $1,500 just for old siding disposal, especially if landfill rates are high.
- Wall Prep: Homes with rot, mold, or insulation gaps require repair, adding $500 – $4,000.
- Permit And Code Fees: Building permits, often $100 – $1,000 depending on locale, are sometimes not included in estimates.
- Scaffolding Or Lift Rental: Two and three-story homes may incur $500 – $2,000 in access equipment rental.
- Custom Colors/Coatings: Factory ColorPlus finish may cost $2,000 – $6,000 extra but reduces onsite painting costs.
Do-It-Yourself Vs. Professional Installation
While DIY installation of vinyl siding is possible for some homeowners, Hardie Board installation is considerably more challenging. Fiber cement is heavier, dustier to cut, and requires specific safety tools, leading most to hire professionals. DIYers may save $3–$8 per sq. ft. on labor, but risk errors that can void warranties.
Estimated Project Costs For Common Home Sizes
| Home Size (sq. ft. of siding) | Total Professional Cost Range | Average Vinyl Siding Removal Cost |
|---|---|---|
| 1,000 (small home or cottage) | $8,000 – $18,000 | $1,000 – $2,000 |
| 1,500 (average ranch or split-level) | $12,000 – $24,000 | $1,400 – $2,600 |
| 2,000 (average two-story) | $16,000 – $30,000 | $1,800 – $3,000 |
| 2,500 (larger home or multi-story) | $20,000 – $34,000 | $2,200 – $3,500 |
Return On Investment: Is Replacing Vinyl With Hardie Board Worth It?
Fiber cement siding, such as Hardie Board, consistently ranks near the top for ROI among exterior remodels. According to Remodeling Magazine’s 2023 Cost vs. Value Report, replacing siding with fiber cement recoups an average of 89% of project costs on resale. Other benefits include hazard resistance, long warranties (up to 30 years), and enhanced home value and curb appeal.
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Cost-Saving Tips When Replacing Vinyl With Hardie Board
- Get Multiple Bids: Solicit at least 3–5 quotes from experienced Hardie Board installers.
- Schedule During Off-Season: Contractors may reduce prices in winter or late fall.
- Choose Factory-Finished Boards: This can lower or eliminate on-site painting costs and delays.
- Review Warranty Coverage: Compare manufacturer and installer warranties to ensure long-term protection.
Frequently Asked Questions About Hardie Board Siding Costs
Is There A Difference In Cost When Upgrading From Old Vinyl To Hardie Board?
Yes—removing existing vinyl, prepping surfaces, and disposing of old material adds $1,000–$3,500 over the base Hardie installation cost.
Can Homeowners Save By Installing Hardie Board Themselves?
While some labor costs could be saved, most homeowners find the complex installation and heavy material unsuitable for DIY projects. Poor installation can lead to failure and lost warranty coverage.
How Long Does It Take To Replace Vinyl Siding With Hardie Board?
For an average home, expect 1–2 weeks of work (weather dependent), which includes tear-off, repairs, installation, and finishing.
Is Hardie Board Siding More Expensive Than Vinyl Long-Term?
Hardie Board’s higher upfront cost is offset by superior durability, lower repair frequency, and higher resale value. Vinyl costs much less to install, but typically lasts half as long.
Summary Table: Typical Total Costs By Project Scope
| Project Scope | Total Cost Range |
|---|---|
| Remove vinyl siding & install Hardie Board (average US home) | $14,000 – $34,000 |
| Hardie Board siding installation only (new construction) | $9,000 – $26,000 |
| Partial replacement/small project (garage, addition) | $3,500 – $10,000 |
| Premium upgrades (specialty trims, custom paint, extensive repairs) | $2,000 – $8,000 extra |
Replacing vinyl siding with Hardie Board delivers long-term value, premium durability, and excellent curb appeal. Homeowners should carefully evaluate local labor rates, regional codes, and home-specific needs to fine-tune their budget.
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