Replacing or installing new siding is a major investment for any American homeowner. Understanding the cost of a “square” of siding—in materials and labor—is essential for budgeting your next home upgrade. This article breaks down the current average costs, influencing factors, and answers to common questions so you can plan with confidence.
| Material | Average Cost Per Square (100 sq. ft.) | Installed Cost Per Square |
|---|---|---|
| Vinyl Siding | $100 – $300 | $350 – $700 |
| Fiber Cement (James Hardie, etc.) | $200 – $500 | $600 – $1,200 |
| Wood Siding | $300 – $800 | $700 – $1,400 |
| Engineered Wood Siding | $220 – $400 | $600 – $1,100 |
| Aluminum Siding | $200 – $400 | $500 – $1,000 |
| Stucco Siding | $350 – $800 | $900 – $1,700 |
| Brick or Stone Veneer | $600 – $1,000 | $1,000 – $2,000 |
What Is A Square Of Siding?
A “square” in siding terminology refers to 100 square feet of material coverage. This measurement helps homeowners and contractors accurately calculate material needs for projects of any size. When you receive a quote, the price is often given in cost per square, making it critical to factor in the total exterior area of your home.
Major Factors Influencing Siding Cost Per Square
The cost for a square of siding varies by more than just material type. Several key factors impact overall pricing—from the brand to the complexity of installation and your location.
- Material Type: Vinyl, fiber cement, wood, metal, and composite all come with distinct price points and durability profiles.
- Thickness, Finish, And Insulation: Thicker, insulated, or pre-finished panels can add to costs.
- Brand And Quality: Premier brands such as James Hardie or CertainTeed often demand a premium.
- Color, Style, And Texture: Specialty colors and custom textures increase expenses.
- Installation Complexity: Multi-story homes, custom trims, and intricate details require more labor.
- Regional Labor Costs: Urban or high cost-of-living areas see significantly higher installed prices.
- Site Preparation: Removing old siding or repairing sheathing can add to the final bill.
Average Cost By Siding Material
This section explores how costs vary by major siding materials, both for materials alone and for complete installation (including labor).
Vinyl Siding
- Material Only: $100–$300 per square
- Installed: $350–$700 per square
Vinyl remains the most popular siding choice in the U.S. for its affordability, durability, and color options. Thicker, insulated vinyl panels may land at the higher end of this range.
Fiber Cement Siding
- Material Only: $200–$500 per square
- Installed: $600–$1,200 per square
Products like HardiePlank deliver fire resistance and a wood-like finish. Expect a higher material price as well as demanding installation labor, especially for two-story homes.
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Wood Siding
- Material Only: $300–$800 per square
- Installed: $700–$1,400 per square
Wood siding offers a timeless look but comes with higher maintenance and material costs. Choices include cedar, redwood, and engineered wood panels.
Engineered Wood Siding
- Material Only: $220–$400 per square
- Installed: $600–$1,100 per square
Engineered wood provides a real-wood appearance with improved moisture and pest resistance. Quality brands include LP SmartSide and TruWood.
Aluminum Siding
- Material Only: $200 – $400 per square
- Installed: $500 – $1,000 per square
Metal siding is durable and low maintenance. However, options and color selection are typically more limited compared to vinyl or fiber cement.
Stucco Siding
- Material Only: $350–$800 per square
- Installed: $900–$1,700 per square
Stucco—often used in Southwestern homes—offers unique energy efficiency and texture. Installation requires skilled labor, often influencing the higher installed price.
Brick Or Stone Veneer
- Material Only: $600–$1,000 per square
- Installed: $1,000–$2,000 per square
Brick and stone add premium curb appeal and long-term durability but entail high installation costs. These materials typically require special installers and extra labor for proper support and fitting.
Cost Breakdown: Materials, Labor, And Additional Expenses
When evaluating siding costs, homeowners face three primary buckets: material costs, labor charges, and extra project expenses that may or may not be included in the contractor’s quote.
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| Cost Category | Typical Range ($/square) | What’s Included? |
|---|---|---|
| Materials | See above (by type) | Siding panels/boards, starter strips, corner posts, fasteners, insulation (if included) |
| Labor | $150–$500+ | Installation, cutting, caulking, trim work, weatherproofing |
| Tear-Off/Prep | $0–$300 | Old siding removal, hauling debris, prepping sheathing |
| Disposal Fees | $50–$150 | Landfill and recycling of old material |
| Accessories | $25–$100 | Trim, soffit, fascia, house wrap |
National And Regional Pricing Trends
The price you pay for a square of siding can be influenced by your geographic location, local demand, seasonal factors, and supply chain disruptions. In states where labor and delivery costs are high—such as California, New York, or Alaska—installed prices may be 20%–40% above the national average.
Rural regions or those with lower construction demand can see savings but may have fewer experienced installers or material options. Coastal and hurricane-prone areas may also require costlier, code-compliant products.
DIY Vs. Professional Installation Costs
| Perspective | Material Only ($/sq) | Tools/Equipment ($/sq) | Total DIY ($/sq) | Pro Installed ($/sq) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Vinyl | $150 | $20 | $170 | $500 |
| Fiber Cement | $350 | $40–$60 | $390–$410 | $900 |
| Wood | $500 | $30 | $530 | $1,000 |
DIY installation can lower total costs by up to 40–60%, but risks include improper installation, voiding manufacturer warranties, and increased labor hours. Specialized materials such as fiber cement or brick veneer are best left to professionals.
Long-Term Value: Durability, Maintenance, And Resale Impact
When selecting siding, consider both upfront and long-term costs. Some materials, like fiber cement and brick, offer decades of durability and lower maintenance, while wood may require regular sealing or painting.
A home’s curb appeal and insulation value can directly affect resale price. Upgrading from dated or damaged siding often delivers a strong return on investment. Energy-efficient and weather-resistant profiles (e.g., insulated vinyl) can lower ongoing utility bills.
Cost Comparison By Home Size
| Home Size (sq.ft. exterior wall) | Squares Needed | Vinyl Installed Cost | Fiber Cement Installed Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Single Family, 1200 sq.ft. | 12 squares | $4,200 – $8,400 | $7,200 – $14,400 |
| Single Family, 2000 sq.ft. | 20 squares | $7,000 – $14,000 | $12,000 – $24,000 |
| Large Home, 3000 sq.ft. | 30 squares | $10,500 – $21,000 | $18,000 – $36,000 |
Pricing above reflects inclusive professional installation—actual costs will vary by geographic region, material options, and project complexity.
Additional Costs To Consider
Besides the basic material and labor, additional charges may affect the total estimate. These include:
- Permit Fees: $50–$300, depending on municipality
- Lead Paint Removal: Up to $2,000 extra if your home was built before 1978
- Custom Trims Or Decorative Accents: Adds $100–$500 or more per square, for ornate details or heavy-duty window/door trim
- Upgraded Insulation: Premium backer board or house wrap can add $0.50–$1 per sq. ft.
Ways To Save On Siding Installation
- Get Multiple Bids: Compare quotes from at least three licensed contractors.
- Choose Standard Colors/Profiles: Custom colors and profiles increase costs sharply.
- Time It Right: Off-season installations (fall, winter) may fetch lower labor bids.
- Combine Projects: Bundle with window/roofing work to get bulk discounts.
Shopping around and being flexible on product selection is the best way to trim project costs without sacrificing long-term value.
Frequently Asked Questions About Siding Cost Per Square
How Many Squares Of Siding Does My House Need?
A standard formula is to divide the home’s total exterior wall area by 100 to estimate the number of squares. Always add 5–10% extra for waste and irregular cuts.
What’s The Cheapest Siding Option?
Vinyl siding is consistently the lowest-cost choice, especially standard (non-insulated) profiles in basic colors.
Why Is The Installed Price Much Higher Than The Material Cost?
Installation involves skilled labor, caulking, flashing, specialty tools, and safety equipment. Multi-story or complex homes may require scaffolding and extra labor, further increasing the final bill.
Does Siding Replacement Increase Home Value?
Yes—modern siding can deliver a return on investment of 75% or greater, with improved curb appeal, energy efficiency, and reduced maintenance.
Summary Table: Average Cost Per Square Of Siding By Key Perspective
| Perspective | Material Cost ($) | Installed Cost ($) | Key Factors Impacting Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Homeowner (DIY) | $100–$800 | $170–$530 (self-install total) | Tool purchases, risk of errors, potential warranty issues |
| Contractor/Professional Install | $200–$1,000 | $500–$2,000 | Labor, insurance, disposal, intricate trim details |
| Material Type Comparison | See material-specific ranges | See tables above | Value, maintenance needs, local code requirements |
| Region/Market | +/- 10–40% | +/- 10–40% | Local wages, shipping costs, supply chain |
Ultimately, the cost of a square of siding is shaped by several variables—selecting materials, labor, design, and project-specific factors. Getting detailed, itemized estimates and understanding your home’s unique needs can help ensure a beautiful, lasting outcome within your budget.
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