Last updated: March 2026
What Is the Siding Cost Estimator?
The Siding Cost Estimator is a free calculator that gives you a realistic budget range for re-siding your home. It accounts for 6 siding materials (vinyl, fiber cement, wood, engineered wood, stucco, and stone/brick veneer), each with 3 quality tiers, additional features like house wrap and insulation, and professional vs. DIY installation — all adjusted to your state's regional pricing.
Unlike generic “siding cost per square foot” estimates, this tool builds your estimate from the ground up: materials by quality tier, scaffolding for multi-story homes, tear-off costs, weather barriers, trim work, and accurate labor rates by material type. The result is a detailed breakdown you can use to compare contractor quotes or plan a DIY project.
The material comparison chart is especially useful — it shows the estimated cost of all 6 materials for your exact home size, making it easy to see how upgrading from vinyl to fiber cement or stone veneer affects your budget.
How to Choose Siding Material
Vinyl siding is the most popular choice in America for good reason — it costs $3-10/sq ft, comes in hundreds of colors and profiles, and requires virtually no maintenance. Modern insulated vinyl options offer improved energy efficiency and a more substantial feel. Lifespan: 20-40 years.
Fiber cement (Hardie Board) has become the contractor favorite, offering the look of wood without the maintenance headaches. It resists fire, termites, and rot, holds paint exceptionally well, and lasts 30-50 years. The main downside is weight — it requires experienced installers.
Natural wood siding (cedar, redwood) delivers unmatched beauty and character. It does require periodic maintenance — staining or painting every 3-7 years — but many homeowners consider the warm, authentic appearance worth the upkeep. Lifespan varies widely: 15-40 years depending on maintenance.
Stone and brick veneer are the premium options, providing maximum durability and dramatic curb appeal. While the upfront cost is highest ($12-45/sq ft), these materials can last 50-100+ years with minimal maintenance. Many homeowners use stone as an accent material on the front facade to control costs.
Regional Cost Differences
Siding costs vary significantly by location. High-cost-of-living states like California, New York, Hawaii, and Massachusetts can add 25-35% to the national average due to higher labor rates and material delivery costs. Meanwhile, states in the Southeast and lower Midwest typically come in 10-20% below average.
Urban areas within any state tend to be more expensive than rural areas. Our calculator uses state-level adjustments to give you a more accurate starting point than national averages alone.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to re-side a house?
For a typical 1,500 sq ft home, vinyl siding costs $6,000-$15,000, fiber cement (Hardie Board) $12,000-$22,000, and wood $15,000-$30,000 including professional labor. Costs vary significantly by region — California and New York run 30-35% above the national average, while Mississippi and Arkansas run 18-20% below.
Which siding material is cheapest?
Vinyl siding is the most affordable option at $3-10 per square foot installed, depending on quality tier. Budget vinyl runs $3-5/sq ft for materials, and labor adds $2-4/sq ft. For a 1,500 sq ft home, that's roughly $7,500-$21,000 total. Engineered wood (LP SmartSide) is the next most affordable at $5-13/sq ft.
How long does siding last?
Lifespan varies dramatically by material: vinyl lasts 20-40 years, fiber cement 30-50 years, natural wood 15-40 years (depending on maintenance), engineered wood 25-50 years, stucco 50-80 years, and stone or brick veneer 50-100+ years. Climate, maintenance, and installation quality all affect actual lifespan.
Can I install siding myself to save money?
Vinyl and engineered wood siding are the most DIY-friendly options. A handy homeowner can save $2-5 per square foot on labor — that's $3,000-$7,500 on a typical home. However, fiber cement requires special cutting tools and is very heavy, while stucco and stone veneer require specialized skills. Poor installation voids most warranties.
Do I need to remove old siding before installing new?
Not always. Vinyl and engineered wood can sometimes be installed over existing siding if the underlying sheathing is sound. However, removing old siding ($1-3/sq ft) allows inspection for moisture damage, rot, or insect infestation — problems that worsen if covered up. Most contractors recommend removal for the best long-term result.
Does new siding increase home value?
Yes. New siding is one of the highest-ROI home improvements. According to Remodeling Magazine's Cost vs. Value Report, vinyl siding replacement recoups about 68% of cost at resale, and fiber cement siding recoups about 70%. Beyond resale, new siding improves curb appeal, energy efficiency, and eliminates maintenance headaches.
More Tools
Bathroom Remodel Calculator
Estimate bathroom renovation costs with 9 categories
Kitchen Remodel Calculator
Estimate kitchen renovation costs with 10 categories
Deck Cost Estimator
Estimate deck building costs with 6 materials
Roofing Calculator
Calculate roofing materials, costs, and shopping list
Paint Calculator
Calculate how much paint you need for any room