Most types of siding are relatively easy to install. If you own a miter saw, you'll find it easy to make square cuts on most types of horizontal siding. Fastening is seldom difficult; the main challenge is finding the studs to nail to (unless your house has plywood or OSB sheathing).
What is the best exterior siding for a house?
The Best Paints For House Exteriors
- Wood And Cement Fiberboard. Benjamin Moore’s Aura and Regal Select. ...
- Aluminum Siding. Benjamin Moore Regal Select in a matte or eggshell finish. ...
- Vinyl Siding. Benjamin Moore Revive or a vinyl safe Sherwin-Williams paint. ...
- For House Exteriors With Peeling Paint. ...
How to choose the best siding for Your House?
How to Choose the Best Siding for Your House
- Wood Siding: A Traditional Choice with some Maintenance Requirements. Wood siding comes in a variety of styles. ...
- Pine and Cedar Siding. ...
- Wood Shingle Siding. ...
- Engineered Wood: A Good Compromise. ...
- Stone Veneer Siding: A Thin Layer that Looks Like Solid Masonry. ...
- Vinyl Siding: Great Value for Your Money. ...
- Fiber Cement: Durability and Versatility. ...
What kind of siding should I put on my house?
- Engineered Wood Siding (pre-finished) Engineered wood is a great alternative to real wood siding.
- Steel Siding. Steel is a highly durable siding that can withstand more damage than other materials.
- Fiber Cement (pre-finished) Fiber cement is another affordable siding choice.
- Vinyl Siding.
Which type of siding is best for your home?
Types of Siding Every Homeowner Should Consider
- Vinyl Siding. Vinyl siding is a fairly popular choice for homes for a few reasons. ...
- Insulated Vinyl Siding. Pros: Improved home insulation and durability, with the same variety of traditional vinyl. ...
- LP SmartSide. ...
- Hardie Board Siding. ...
- Everlast Composite Siding. ...
- Natural Wood Siding. ...
- Manufactured Wood Siding. ...
- Metal Siding. ...
- Fiber Cement Siding. ...
- Brick. ...
Can I put siding on my house myself?
Choosing the DIY Route: Siding Installation is Not for Beginners. If you don't have any experience with installing siding on a house, it's probably best that you reach out to a trained contractor for the job. While it looks relatively straightforward, installing siding isn't a job for beginner DIYers.
Is it cheaper to do siding yourself?
If you are experienced, DIY is the way to go to save money. On the other hand, if you are not experienced and attempt to replace your vinyl siding, it may end up costing you more time and money than hiring a professional due to all the potential mistakes and issues that may occur.
How long does it take to do siding on a house?
Every house is different, but a typical tear-off and siding installation project may take between 7 to 14 days. There are many things that can extend the time such as the size of your house, whether you're using prefinished siding or if it needs to be painted, and unexpected repairs.
Is siding hard to replace?
Vinyl siding is tough but not indestructible. If a falling branch or a well-hit baseball cracked a piece of your siding, don't fret — you can make it as good as new in about 15 minutes with a zip tool and a replacement piece. It's as simple as unzipping the damaged piece and snapping in a new one.
How much does it cost to side a 2000 sq ft house?
Labor costs will vary depending on the size and shape of your house. Vinyl siding installation on a 2,000-square-foot house with a plain, rectangular shape and no eaves or turrets will run you about $10,000.
How much does it cost to vinyl side a 1500 sq ft house?
The average cost for vinyl siding installation on a 1,500 sq ft. home can range from $4,658 to $5,795. The cost for vinyl siding is usually around $3.50 per square foot. A high quality vinyl siding would increase the price and you could expect to pay as much as $7 per square foot.
Should I roof or siding first?
Generally, the roof should come first, and the reason is simple. If the siding is replaced first, then putting on a new roof could damage the siding. Both will provide your home with many benefits once newly installed.
How often should you replace the siding on your house?
between 20 and 40 yearsSiding is a key element in your house because it serves as the first line of defense against elements that might affect your house. A good siding should last between 20 and 40 years with proper care. However, it is also good to note that the type of siding material will determine whether it stands the test of time.
What is included in siding installation?
Siding installation includes the removal of your current siding, prep work, insulation, new siding installation, and final touches. You should plan on unforeseeable issues that may cause delays in your siding project.
Can you put new siding over old siding?
According to the best practices manual from James Hardie, existing siding can be used as a substrate as long as it is in good condition, meaning that it is not warped, bowed, curling, delaminated, or rotting. This is the main task to tackle to make sure that there are no preexisting issues on the home.
What is the easiest siding to install?
Vinyl Siding: Great Value for Your Money Tough, long-lasting, affordable, and easy to install, vinyl siding has a popularity that's easy to appreciate. These days, you can choose from a wide variety of siding styles and colors, including products that resemble wood-grain lap siding, wood shingles, and even stone.
How do you know when siding is bad?
7 Signs That it's Time to Replace Your Home SidingCracked, Warped or rotting siding. ... Blisters or bubbles on your siding. ... Fungus, mold or mildew on your siding. ... Severly faded siding. ... Siding in need of frequent painting. ... Higher energy bills. ... Paint peeling inside your home.
Is it cheaper to paint or put siding on your house?
Replacing your siding may cost two to three times more than repainting your home, but it can last between 25-50 years. While upfront costs are steep, over time, siding replacement costs less over the long-term. If you don't have the cash to replace your siding, repaint.
Is it cheaper to paint or vinyl siding?
One of the primary factors comes down to the area where you live. However, Angie's List estimates that the cost of painting old siding is between $99 and $242 per 300 square feet. When you compare this to the cost of vinyl siding replacement, it can be as much as 60% less to paint your siding.
What is the average cost to replace siding on a house?
Siding a house costs $10,693 on average, with most homeowners spending between $5,630 and $17,388 or between $2.33 and $15.33 per square foot. Low-end siding projects average around $2,300, while large-scale siding projects can cost as much as $90,000 or more. These costs include the materials, labor, and site cleanup.
What is the most cost effective siding?
Vinyl siding is almost always the least expensive way to side your home. You can even find vinyl siding for as cheap as $2 per square foot.
How much does stone siding cost?
How much does stone or brick siding cost? Brick costs run between $1-$10/sq. ft., while stone veneer can cost $10 – $15/ sq. ft. Faux-stone or -brick veneer panels made of urethane or other synthetics are also available to achieve the same curb appeal, are less expensive to install and cost between $5-$15/sq. ft.
How much does it cost to install cedar siding?
Material costs for wood siding can range from $0.75/sq. ft. for pine to $7-$8/sq. ft. for clear red cedar clapboards . Re-squared and re-butted (R&R) cedar shingles cost about $3.60/ sq. ft., when installed with a 5-in. exposure.
What is EIFS insulation?
Also known, mistakenly, as synthetic stucco, EIFS consists of a layer of high-density foam insulation that’s applied to the exterior of a house and coated with a protective textured finish.
What is vertical siding?
Sold as clapboards (also known as beveled siding), shingles (or shakes), paneling, board and batten, or vertical siding comprised of tongue-and-grooved boards. Relatively long-lasting (especially cedar products), wood siding should be painted or treated with preservatives to prevent rot and/or insect damage.
What is sheathing made of?
These days, a great many successful building products such as sheathing panels and structural lumber are made from the byproducts of milling lumber. They are dimensionally stable and are stronger than solid wood. Previous attempts at engineered siding products haven’t been as successful, until recently.
What is siding in a house?
By This Old House. David Yellen. Like the bark on a tree or the skin on your body, siding is a home’s front line of protection against the elements. To do its job, siding must be sun- and water-resistant, able to withstand extremes in temperature, and stay in place when the wind blows too hard. It’s a part of your house that’s relatively easy ...
How much does fiber cement siding cost?
You can find fiber cement siding that’s manufactured into clapboards, shingles or vertical panels. Expect to pay between $1 and $2/sq. ft.
What Is Vinyl House Siding?
Vinyl siding is a durable form of plastic commonly used on the exterior of homes. It comes in many colors and styles, even imitating the look of wood and other siding materials.
How long does vinyl siding last?
Vinyl Siding Can Result in Other Maintenance Issues. Manufacturers often advertise that high-quality siding lasts about 20 to 30 years. However, depending on your climate, the siding might actually begin to show its age after only 10 to 15 years. Vinyl siding, especially dark siding, begins to fade in sunny climates.
Why does pressure washing siding break?
Pressure washing can be disastrous if water enters your house through cracks and crevices around the siding. Siding planks often split or break due to the expansion and contraction caused by temperature changes. If a lawnmower sends a rock flying at your house, it may pierce the siding.
How much does fiber cement siding cost?
As an example, 24 pieces of 4 1/2-inch by 145-inch ship lap horizontal vinyl siding, grey, will cost in the $150 to $200 range. 1 Comparably-sized shiplap fiber-cement siding will cost at least twice as much. Vinyl siding will nearly always be your cheapest home siding option.
Why is vinyl siding slick?
Vinyl siding's slick surface means that dust, cobwebs, and other debris slide off relatively easily when sprayed down with a garden hose. Because there is no paint to peel, you will never have to scrape, patch, prime, and paint your house's exterior surface.
What is the purpose of cladding?
The main purpose of cladding, like roofing, is to keep water out of your house. Wood siding and other traditional cladding materials allow the wall to breathe; water vapor may move through the wall construction, but it can escape during colder weather.
What is 1910.1017?
1910.1017 - Vinyl Chloride. US Department of Labor, Occupational Safety and Health Administration
Adding Siding to Your Home
Installing house siding isn’t just about increasing your curb appeal. Siding also protects your home from the elements. There are a few things to consider if you’re interested in replacing or upgrading your siding. Different types of siding respond differently to hot and cold temperatures, wind, and other elements over time.
Vinyl Siding
Vinyl siding is one of the most affordable siding options. It’s durable and low maintenance, and it can be applied over existing masonry or wood siding to transform the look of your home.
Wood Siding
Available in panels and shingles, wood siding gives your house the look of authentic wood. Wood siding is available in several treatments and finishes. You can also paint or stain it after installation. Natural wood siding with an exterior-grade panel is suitable for long-term exposure to weather and can withstand repeated wetting and drying.
Fiber Cement Siding
This type of siding is typically low maintenance and can be cleaned with water, a soft-bristle brush and, if necessary, a mild detergent. If you use a pressure washer, operate it below 1500 PSI. Use only a wide fan tip at a distance of at least 6 feet away from the siding.
Siding Calculator
For panels and clapboards, measure your home’s exterior walls, including the doors and windows. Note the size of one piece of siding. Divide the total exterior wall measurement by the size of one piece of siding to determine how many pieces you’ll need.
Brick Veneer
If you want a beautiful, classic look, brick veneer siding is a great choice. Brick veneer can be used on its own, or you can pair it with wood, stucco or vinyl siding to create a unique look. This siding is usually sealed to prevent moisture from seeping in, which can eventually cause corrosion of the material.
Siding Styles
Installing siding protects your home’s exterior and helps with insulation, but the style of siding you choose also influences your home’s aesthetic. Lap siding is the most common siding. The term lap refers to the way in which the planks overlap, and it comes in several styles.
How long does it take to install shingles?
Shingle panels are shingles attached to a piece of plywood or backerboard and then installed. Installing the panels takes roughly a day, depending on the size of your house, but the end result will last for years. Installation is easy, and we'll show you how to do it in just four steps.
How does siding fit together?
The siding fits together by means of tongues and grooves (hence the name) that over- and underlap one another. However, the overlap provides less protection from the elements than other types of siding, so make sure tongue-and-groove is suitable for your region before getting started.
What is a good habit for siding?
Form Good Habits. A hallmark of an amateur siding job is horizontal siding that dips and rises with each course—a sign that someone wasn't checking for level. Similarly, vertical siding must be checked for plumb. It is good to do this not only as you hold the piece in place but also after you've begun applying it.
Why is a story pole important?
Siding should progress up the wall with an even exposure, and courses should line up when they meet at a corner. For layout, the story pole is indispensable. It' s a tool that will help you anticipate problem areas and figure out workable solutions. Often solving one problem will introduce another, forcing a compromise.
Can you seal unprimed siding?
Sealing the edges of unprimed siding can be awkward—it is no fun reaching for the paintbrush after every cut—but rest assured you are saving yourself headaches down the road.
Is fiber cement siding a wood siding?
This hardy material comes in 12-foot lengths with a variety of different widths. Installing fiber- cement lap siding is no more difficult to install than wood siding, and we'll walk you through the entire process.
Is vinyl siding easy to install?
Compared to other sidings, vinyl is one of the easiest to install. It cuts easily, can be put up quickly, and requires no painting. Though the installation process is simple, prepping for the job requires more effort. Our expert guide gives you all the info you need to install vinyl siding on your home.
What is fiber cement siding made of?
Fiber cement siding is made from water, cement, sand, and fibers, and it became a popular siding choice after it was introduced in the 1980s. It may also be called composite siding since it is made up of these different materials.
What are the pros and cons of siding?
When it comes to the pros and cons of this type of house siding, one of the pros is definitely the appearance. Natural wood and engineered wood both produce a beautiful, classic result for the homeowner. And with natural wood, the color options are endless since you can paint the exterior siding. Energy Efficiency.
How long does vinyl siding last?
If you guessed that vinyl siding is durable too, you’d be right. Many vinyl siding options can last between 60 and 100 years with proper maintenance. This is one of the reasons that vinyl siding is such a cost-effective choice.
How much does fiber cement cost per square foot?
Fiber cement siding starts around $5 per square foot, like wood siding, but doesn’t go as high on the top side of the scale. This makes fiber cement a cost-effective option against some other siding options.
How to determine which siding is best for my home?
To determine which option is the most efficient for your home, consider both the initial costs as well as how long the siding you choose will last.
How much does wood siding cost?
There are different types of wood siding materials, including natural and engineered. The average price of natural wood has been about $5 per square foot installed. That cost can increase if you choose more expensive cedar shingles or other materials, driving the price closer to $10 per square foot installed.
How long does engineered wood last?
Warranty. Most engineered siding lasts between 20 and 30 years.
What is the oldest type of siding?
Wood Siding . Wood siding comes in many shapes from simple clapboard to intricate shingles. It is the oldest type of siding in the list. Wood requires more labor to install and will require more maintenance over time than other options. Installing wood siding usually requires stripping the exterior of the house down to the sheathing.
What are the downsides of aluminum?
The major downsides to aluminum are the tendency of the paint to powder over time and its susceptibility to denting.
What is fiber cement siding?
Fiber cement is the newest technology in the siding market. It is available in a broad range of styles and finishes. This versatility allows homeowners to simulate almost any wall covering imaginable. It is also extremely durable and low maintenance.
Why is vinyl better than other types of vinyl?
Vinyl holds its color better than other types due to the fact that the pigment is fused into the material. Cracking and chipping are the main concerns down the line, but replacing damaged sections is a simple task that can be completed quickly.
Can aluminum siding be installed over wood?
Aluminum can be installed over existing wood, provided that there are no issues with mold and rot. Installing aluminum siding is easier than wood as the pieces are formed with a nailing flange and interlock with each other.
Factors in Calculating House Siding Cost
Some elements of calculating the cost of re-siding a home are obvious—the siding itself will have a cost, and there’s a cost to having someone install it. Other costs are less notable, but all of them will combine to determine how much the job will cost.
Additional Costs and Considerations
Once a homeowner has selected the materials and computed the cost of the supplies, materials, and labor, there are a few other elements that contribute to the overall cost of siding that should be taken into consideration when making shopping decisions.
Types of House Siding
How much does it cost to re-side a house using different siding types? Having a rough idea of the size of the area that will need to be sided, the labor costs, and awareness of other cost factors, homeowners can take a closer look at the different types of siding that are available and their associated costs.
Do I Need New House Siding?
Sometimes it’s easy to know when it’s time for new siding—a large panel has blown off during a storm, termites have infested the existing siding, or an addition is being constructed and there’s no way to match the existing siding.
Benefits of Installing New House Siding
The most important benefit to new siding is to protect the house it’s covering from weather, insects, and other damage-causing agents. But there are other elements of the home that will be enhanced by a new exterior covering.
House Siding Installation: DIY vs. Hiring a Professional
Some types of siding are DIY-friendly, especially for someone with a little know-how and the right equipment and a lot of extra time. There are real reasons choosing a professional to do the installation is worthwhile for this particular project, however.
How to Save Money on House Siding Cost
Even “inexpensive” siding adds up quickly once all the factors are taken into consideration—installing siding is not a low-cost project, and the answer to the question “How much to re-side a house?” can be startling.
Vinyl Siding Installation Tips
Vinyl comes in a variety of grains, thicknesses and colors, making it a practical choice for many homeowners. We'll give you tips on preparing your home, cutting vinyl siding and installing the siding panels.
Surface Preparation for Vinyl Siding Installation
Securely nail all loose boards and wood trim and replace any rotten boards.
Use Exterior Siding Furring
In new construction, furring strips aren't usually necessary. However, older homes often have uneven walls. These walls should be furred out to prevent a wavy appearance in the finished vinyl siding job.
Insulation for Vinyl Siding
House wrap or foam board insulation helps insulate and level out the exterior of a house. Some manufacturers strongly caution against the use of drop-in type foam or fiberboard behind their vinyl siding. This type of insulation may change and flatten the contour of the panel, causing the siding to bulge or ripple.
Vinyl Soffit and Fascia Installation Guide
Use the following instructions for vinyl soffit and fascia installation.
