New siding improves your home's curb appeal and protects it from the elements. This home renovation project involves a hefty investment that varies depending on a variety of factors. The costs can run from $2 to more than $10 per square foot (as of 2011) including the installation. Consider your options and compare pricing to find the siding that fits your budget and your needs.
Size
The size of your home affects the amount of siding needed to cover the walls. Both the length of the home's sides and the height of the house determine how much siding is necessary. Siding is generally priced by the square foot. Multiplying the length of each of the home's exterior walls by the height gives you an estimate of how many square feet of coverage you need. A larger home will take a siding contractor longer to complete, which will increase the labor costs for the installation.
Material
The type of siding material you choose is a major factor in the cost. Different material types have varying durability and longevity. Over time, a more expensive material may save you money if it lasts longer than a cheaper material. Vinyl falls at the low end of the siding price range at around $2 to $3 per square foot installed, as of 2011. Fiber cement siding is another affordable option coming in around $3 to $4 per square foot. Aluminum siding costs slightly more at about $3 to $5 a square foot, but this material resists dents and wind damage. Hardwood siding costs around $3.50 to $6.50 per square foot, while wood shakes or shingles range from about $5 to $7.40.
Grade
The siding's grade indicates its quality. A better grade of a particular type of siding costs more, but the siding is more likely to stand up over time and look better than a lower grade. For wood siding, knots and other defects determine the grade. The grading system varies depending on the agency that grades it. The systems sometimes go by letter with "A" as the top grade; by number with "One" as the best; or by other descriptions such as "Clear" to indicate high quality. Other types of siding also feature grading systems to help you choose the highest quality option in your price range.
Features
A basic siding design is the least expensive option. Any additional features or customized looks increase the price. Some contractors and hardware stores charge more for specialty colors. Custom designs also add to the cost. For example, vinyl siding designed to look more like wood shakes will likely have a higher price tag. Different patterns or shapes designed into the siding will also increase the total cost. The more intricate or customized your siding installation, the more you should expect to pay.
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