How Much Does It Cost to Side a House? (2025 Price Guide)

How Much Does It Cost to Side a House? (2025 Price Guide)

Key Takeaways

  • Average house siding costs in 2025 range from $5,000 to $35,000, depending on size, material, and labor.
  • Vinyl and fiber cement are the most popular options for durability and affordability.
  • Costs are influenced by home size, material choice, labor, removal of old siding, and regional differences.
  • Investing in high-quality siding increases curb appeal, energy efficiency, and long-term savings.

Siding a house in 2025 typically costs $3–$30 per square foot, depending on materials like vinyl, fiber cement, wood, or metal. For an average 2,000 sq. ft. home, expect to spend $10,000–$24,000, including labor and removal of old siding. Material choice, labor complexity, and regional pricing can significantly affect the final cost.

Introduction: When Your House Needs a Facelift

I’ll never forget the day I walked past my house and realized my siding had seen better decades. Paint peeling, faded colors, and a few cracked panels made the place look like it survived a minor tornado. At that moment, I knew: it was time for new siding.

Siding isn’t just about aesthetics. It protects your home from the elements, improves energy efficiency, and can even boost your property value. But here’s the kicker: if you’ve never priced it out, the cost can make your wallet feel a little lightheaded.

In this guide, I’ll break down everything you need to know about house siding costs in 2025 — from materials and labor to tips for saving money and maximizing value.

Understanding House Siding Costs

Siding a house isn’t as simple as slapping on a new layer of material. It involves:

  • Removal of old siding — some homes have multiple layers or damaged materials.
  • Prep work — repairing sheathing, adding insulation, and ensuring a smooth surface.
  • Material installation — whether vinyl, wood, fiber cement, or metal.
  • Labor costs — skilled installation is critical for a long-lasting finish.

Several factors influence total costs:

  • Size of your home and the number of stories.
  • Material choice and its durability.
  • Complexity of installation (angles, trims, decorative elements).
  • Regional labor rates and material availability.

Average Cost to Side a House in 2025

Home SizeSquare FootageAverage Cost Range
Small Home1,000–1,500 sq ft$5,000–$12,000
Medium Home1,500–2,500 sq ft$10,000–$20,000
Large Home2,500–4,000 sq ft$18,000–$35,000

Pro Tip: Always measure your home accurately and consider angles, corners, and trim areas — they can add up quickly in both material and labor costs.

Cost Breakdown by Siding Material

Vinyl Siding

  • Cost: $3–$8 per sq. ft.
  • Pros: Affordable, low maintenance, resistant to rot and pests.
  • Cons: Can fade over time and is less durable in extreme weather.
  • Lifespan: 20–40 years with proper care.

Fiber Cement Siding (Hardie Board)

  • Cost: $6–$12 per sq. ft.
  • Pros: Mimics wood, highly durable, fire and pest resistant.
  • Cons: Heavier, more labor-intensive to install.
  • Lifespan: 30–50 years.

Wood Siding

  • Cost: $6–$15 per sq. ft.
  • Pros: Natural look, excellent insulation, customizable.
  • Cons: Requires regular painting or staining, susceptible to rot and insects.
  • Lifespan: 20–40 years with maintenance.

Metal Siding (Steel or Aluminum)

  • Cost: $5–$12 per sq. ft.
  • Pros: Durable, weather-resistant, low maintenance.
  • Cons: Can dent or scratch easily, higher upfront cost.
  • Lifespan: 30–50 years.

Brick or Stone Veneer

  • Cost: $10–$30 per sq. ft.
  • Pros: Timeless appearance, extremely durable, low maintenance.
  • Cons: Expensive, heavy, requires skilled labor.
  • Lifespan: 50+ years.

Engineered Wood Siding

  • Cost: $5–$10 per sq. ft.
  • Pros: Lightweight, eco-friendly, easy to install.
  • Cons: Less durable than real wood or fiber cement in extreme conditions.
  • Lifespan: 20–30 years with proper upkeep.

Labor Costs and Installation Factors

  • Labor typically accounts for 40–60% of total siding costs.
  • Factors affecting labor:
    • Multi-story homes or difficult angles.
    • Decorative trim and complex designs.
    • Prep work like insulation, sheathing repair, or removing multiple layers of old siding.
  • Installation timelines:
    • Vinyl: 1–2 weeks for an average home.
    • Fiber cement: 2–3 weeks due to heavier materials.
    • Wood or brick: 3–5 weeks depending on complexity.

Additional Costs to Consider

  • Old siding removal: $1–$3 per sq. ft.
  • Insulation or weather barriers: $1–$3 per sq. ft.
  • Painting or staining (for wood): $2–$5 per sq. ft.
  • Structural repairs: Costs vary depending on damage.
  • Permit fees: $50–$500 depending on local requirements.

Regional Differences in Siding Costs

  • Labor and material costs vary across the U.S.:
    • Northeast: higher labor rates, more seasonal climate considerations.
    • Midwest: moderate costs, relatively easy access to materials.
    • South: affordable labor, warm climate favors many siding types.
    • West Coast: high demand and strict building codes increase prices.
  • Climate can influence your material choice — for example, moisture-resistant fiber cement in rainy areas.

Siding Cost Estimator Example

MaterialCost per sq ftEstimated Cost for 2,000 sq ft
Vinyl$3–$8$6,000–$16,000
Fiber Cement$6–$12$12,000–$24,000
Wood$6–$15$12,000–$30,000
Metal$5–$12$10,000–$24,000
Brick Veneer$10–$30$20,000–$60,000

Pros and Cons of Common Siding Materials

MaterialProsCons
VinylAffordable, low maintenanceLimited color options, can fade
Fiber CementDurable, fire/pest resistantHeavy, higher labor cost
WoodNatural beauty, good insulationNeeds frequent maintenance
MetalLong-lasting, low upkeepCan dent, higher upfront cost
Brick/StoneTimeless, durableExpensive, labor-intensive

Repair vs. Full Replacement

  • Repair is often enough for minor cracks, warping, or fading.
  • Full replacement is necessary for rot, structural damage, or outdated materials.
  • Cost comparison: minor repairs vs. complete siding replacement.

Maintenance Tips to Extend Siding Lifespan

  • Vinyl: Wash annually to remove dirt and mildew.
  • Wood: Inspect for rot and repaint/stain every few years.
  • Fiber Cement: Check for cracks and reseal if needed.
  • Metal: Clean and inspect for rust or scratches.
  • Trim vegetation away from siding to prevent moisture damage.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it cheaper to paint or replace siding?

Painting is cheaper in the short term, but new siding lasts longer and adds value.

How often should siding be replaced?

Depends on material: vinyl (20–40 years), fiber cement (30–50 years), wood (20–40 years), brick/stone (50+ years).

Can new siding be installed over old siding?

Yes, if the old siding is in good condition and the structure is sound.

Which siding lasts the longest?

Brick and stone veneer are the most durable, followed by fiber cement.

Does new siding increase home value?

Yes, updated siding can boost curb appeal and increase home resale value by 5–10%.

Conclusion

Replacing or installing siding is a major investment, but it pays off in durability, energy efficiency, and curb appeal. Costs vary widely depending on size, material, and labor, so planning carefully and getting multiple quotes is key. Regular maintenance ensures your siding lasts decades. If in doubt, hiring a skilled contractor guarantees a professional, long-lasting finish — and peace of mind.

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