How Much Does Vinyl Siding Cost?

Last Updated on April 12, 2024
Written by CPA Alec Pow | Content Reviewed by CFA Alexander Popinker

With its durability, vast design options, and low-maintenance finish, vinyl siding has become a go-to choice for homeowners improving their home’s exterior facade. But vinyl siding costs can vary substantially depending on the size and complexity of your project.

This in-depth guide examines vinyl siding pricing per square foot, cost factors like materials, installation labor, and prep work, ways to save, and how to balance affordability with quality in your project. Understanding expenses helps you plan and budget accurately.

How Much Does Vinyl Siding Cost?

For reference, expect to spend $5,000 to $12,000 or more to install new vinyl siding on an average 2,000 sq.ft. single family home. Basic siding starts around $3 per square foot; premium shakes and scallops can surpass $10 installed.

Location, accessibility, and special prep work also sway final costs. We’ll explore the nuances so you can smartly navigate bids and material options for your next siding upgrade.

How Vinyl Siding Costs Are Calculated

Vinyl siding is priced and sold by the square foot based on the total coverage area needed. It is then installed based on your home’s unique exterior wall space and specifications. Key factors determining cost include:

• Vinyl materials – The quality, thickness, texture, and style of siding panels purchased, which range from $2 to $7 per square foot before installation.
• Labor – Installation costs depend on complexity factors and contractor rates, averaging $1 to $3 per square foot for basic installation. Intricate homes cost more.
• Square footage – The total exterior wall space requiring new siding dictates the materials needed. Bigger homes require more.
• Accessories – Additional trim pieces, vents, and flashing accents increase costs marginally.

Vinyl Siding Costs Per Square Foot

Here are common per square foot materials prices observed for different grades and types:

• Standard vinyl siding – $3 to $4 per sq. ft. This base grade is around .040” thick. Provides basic durability and protection.
• Mid-grade vinyl siding – $4 to $6 per sq. ft. Upgraded .044” thickness with added texture and color options. A popular choice.
• Premium vinyl siding – $6 to $8+ per sq. ft. Heavy .050” thickness for maximum impact protection. Many decorative textures and premium colors available.
• Insulated vinyl siding – $6 to $9 per sq. ft. Higher R-value foam-backed panels reduce energy costs but cost more.
• Specialty siding – Decorative shake, scallop, and vertical siding panels range from $7 to $12 per sq.ft. More hand labor required.

Factor $5 to $8 per sq.ft. on average for quality products professionally installed.

According to Hover, the cost of vinyl siding installation ranges from $2.50 to $10.75 per square foot, with labor costs averaging $3.70 per square foot.

Sears Home Services writes that the cost of vinyl siding installation ranges from $2 to $15 per square foot, with the total cost for a 1,200-square-foot home estimated to be between $2,400 and $8,400.

Southwest Exteriors says that the cost of vinyl siding for 1,500 square feet of siding is reported to be around $27,000 – $37,000.

Factors Impacting Vinyl Siding Installation Costs

Several considerations affect the total investment:

• Total exterior wall square footage – More siding needed for larger homes based on their paneling requirements.
• Special prep work – Leveling walls, repairs, removing old siding first before installing all add project costs.
• Area accessibility – Scaffolding and equipment rental to access high walls adds cost.
• Complexity factors – Simple square homes are the most budget-friendly. Angles, multi-stories, and complex details make installation more challenging and expensive.
• Geographic region – Prevailing local labor rates fluctuate based on demand and contractor availability.
• Special accents – Added trim, window flashing, soffits, and other accessories increase price marginally.

You might also like our articles about the cost of CertainTeed Siding, Asbestos siding removal, or Hardie Board siding.

Potential Additional Vinyl Siding Expenses

Some possible supplementary costs to keep in mind:

• Removing and disposing of old siding – $1,000 to $3,000+ depending on siding type and disposal method.
• Adding new wall insulation – $0.50 to $1.50 per sq.ft. Boosts energy efficiency.
• Replacing damaged wall boards – $200 per plywood sheet, if issues are found after old siding removed.
• Electrical modifications – $200 to $500 to extend outdoor fixtures and wires to accommodate new siding thickness.
• Municipal permits – Often required for full siding re-sheathing. Varies by region but budget $250 to $500.

Smart Ways to Reduce Vinyl Siding Costs

Some tips for controlling project costs:

• Opt for affordable vinyl over other sidings for the whole house. Use premium shakes only on street-facing sections.
• Select simple straight panel siding over decorative scallops and shakes which require more cutting and shaping.
• Install mid-grade vinyl with just enough thickness for your climate’s hail/impact resistance needs. Only critical facades need extreme-grade.
• Take on prep work like removing old siding yourself when safely possible. Just focus on proper asbestos abatement procedures if needed.
• Provide your own painting/staining labor for any accent wood trim pieces rather than paying a markup on pre-finished.
• Get multiple installer quotes in the slower off-season when demand is lower.

Final Words

New vinyl siding can provide beautiful, low-maintenance curb appeal for years when properly installed. Balance quality with affordability by thoughtfully selecting siding grades for each exterior section based on visibility, exposure, and your budget.

With smart planning and cost-saving measures, you can achieve ideal aesthetics and protection without overspending. Just confirm all specifics in a written estimate before signing any siding contract.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I estimate the cost of vinyl siding?

Follow these steps to estimate vinyl siding costs for your specific home:

1. Measure the height and width of each exterior wall section needing new siding. Include gables.
2. Calculate the square footage of each wall section.
3. Add up the totals to get your home’s total square footage needing siding.
4. Multiply by $3 to $8 per square foot depending on whether you choose basic, mid-grade or premium vinyl.
5. Add 10-20% to account for potential prep work, disposal fees, accessories.
6. Get 2-3 written contractor bids for the project based on your total square footage needed and preferred vinyl type.
7. Compare contractor quotes and review product warranties to make an informed decision.

This provides a realistic budget range. Get quotes during the off-season for best pricing.

What is the downside of vinyl siding?

Potential disadvantages of vinyl siding include:

• Plastic-like appearance lacks the natural curb appeal of wood or masonry to some homeowners.
• More prone to dents and cracking than fiber cement or metal when impacted.
• Can warp or buckle when improperly installed or subjected to high heat.
• Fades, yellows, and chalks over time, losing aesthetic appeal after 8-12 years in some cases.
• Not biodegradable or recyclable like some other sidings.
• Can potentially trap moisture and condensation if improperly vented underneath.
• Provides negligible insulating value unlike foam-backed vinyl versions.
• Limited color and style options relative to wood siding.

Proper installation and maintenance are very important to maximizing vinyl siding’s durability and aesthetics long-term.

How much is 2000 sq ft vinyl siding?

For an average two-story home of around 2,000 sq. ft., you can expect to pay:

• Materials – $6,000 to $16,000 for vinyl siding. Based on 2000 sq. ft. of wall space and $3 to $8 per sq. ft. for standard to premium vinyl.
• Labor – Around $2,000 to $6,000 for professional installation at $1 to $3 per sq. ft. rates.
• Total project cost – Approximately $8,000 to $22,000 depending on the vinyl grade chosen.
• Mid-grade vinyl at $5 per sq. ft. would be around $10,000 in total.
• Add 10-20% more for any prep work like old siding disposal, repairs, and insulation.

Always get multiple installer bids to compare. Look for sales and buy upgraded products only where most visible.