How Much Does Fiber Cement Siding Cost?

Fiber Cement Siding: Pros and Cons

Fiber cement siding is a popular composite material used to cover the house exterior. It is made of a mix of cement, sand, and cellulose fibers. This combination creates a durable, strong, and versatile product. It can imitate the look of wood, stone, or even brick. It makes the material a great option for homeowners who want the look of natural materials without the need to maintain them.
Now, let’s look closer at its pros and cons.

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Factors That Affect the Cost of Fiber Cement Siding

When budgeting for fiber cement siding, it’s essential to understand the factors that affect the overall cost. Let’s break them down.

Size of the Home

The larger the home, the more material you will need. This directly impacts the total cost. So, if you have a small house, you will pay less overall compared to a larger home.

Type of Fiber Cement Siding

There are several types of fiber cement siding with a different price point:

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  Lap Siding: This is the most common type. Fiber cement board siding cost is between $4 to $6 per square foot for materials alone.

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  Shingles: These give a more textured look, like cedar shingles. They usually cost between $2 to $8 per square foot for materials.

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  Panels: These are large sheets that can be used for modern or commercial looks. They typically range from $3 to $15 per square foot for materials.

Quality and Brand of the Siding

Premium brands often offer more durable products with longer warranties but at a higher cost. High-quality siding may cost up to $10 to $15 per square foot, while more affordable options may be around $5 to $8 per square foot. The most famous brands are:

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  James Hardie:

  $6 to $12 per square foot. They are known for durability and color options.

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  Allura:

  $5 to $10 per square foot. Good mid-range option with various textures.

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  Nichiha:

  $7 to $13 per square foot. The manufacturer offers unique architectural styles.

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  CertainTeed:

  $5 to $9 per square foot. This brand is known for good warranties.

Color Options

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  Pre-painted:

  $5 to $11 per square foot. This type of siding comes ready to install.

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  Primed for painting:

  $4 to $9 per square foot. This option is cheaper upfront but needs painting.

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  Custom colors:

  Add $1 to $2 per square foot. They allow for a unique home appearance.

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  Color-plus technology:

  Add $2 to $3 per square foot. The material is colored with a longer-lasting factory finish.

Installation Costs

Installation costs can vary based on your location and the contractor’s experience. Cementitious siding is heavier and requires more skill to install than other types of siding, which can increase labor costs. On average, installation can cost between $2 to $10 per square foot.

Additional Materials

You may need extra materials to complete the siding project, such as trim, soffits, and fascia. These materials help seal the edges and give a finished look. They can add $1 to $4 per square foot to the total cost.

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  Trim work: $3 to $6 per linear foot. It’s essential for a finished look.

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  Insulation: $1 to $3 per square foot. The insulation improves energy efficiency.

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  Fascia and soffits: $20 to $30 per linear foot installed.

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  House wrap: $0.50 to $1 per square foot. It creates an important moisture barrier.

Removal of Old Siding

If you need to remove old siding before installing the new fiber cement siding, this will add to the cost. Removal and disposal can range from $1 to $2 per square foot depending on the type of old siding and the disposal fees in your area.

Home Design and Complexity

The design and complexity of your home can also impact siding installation costs. Homes with many corners, angles, and architectural details require more precise cutting and fitting, which can increase both material waste and labor time. This added complexity can raise the overall cost by 10% to 20%.

Location

The cost of materials and labor can vary depending on where you live. In some regions, the demand for fiber cement siding is higher, which can increase prices. Also, labor costs are generally higher in urban areas compared to rural ones. This can cause the overall project cost to fluctuate by 5% to 15%.

Permits and Inspections

Depending on your location, you might need permits to install new siding on your home. Permit fees can range from $50 to $500 or more, depending on local regulations. Additionally, some areas may require inspections, which could add to the cost.

Seasonal Timing

The final price can depend on the time of year when you are going to install your siding. Contractors may offer 10-20% discounts during off-peak seasons (late fall to early spring) when demand for outdoor work is lower. Peak season (summer) often has higher prices and longer wait times.

Warranty Options

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  Standard warranty: Included in the base price, usually 30 years.

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  Extended warranty: It may add 10-20% to the total cost, and can cover up to 50 years.

Transferable warranties may add value but cost more.

Fiber Cement Siding Saving Tips

If you’re planning to install fiber cement siding, you’ll want to get the best value for your money. There are several ways to save on your siding project without compromising quality:

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  Shop Around for Quotes

  Get quotes from multiple contractors before making a decision. Prices can vary significantly from one contractor to another. By comparing at least three quotes, you can find the best price for the same quality of work. This can save you up to 15% on installation costs.

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  Choose a Standard Style

  Opting for a standard style, such as lap siding, can help you save money. More elaborate styles like shingles or custom designs are more expensive due to higher material and labor costs. Sticking to a standard style can reduce fiber cement siding price per square foot by 10% to 20%.

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  Buy Materials in Bulk

  Purchasing materials in bulk can often get you a discount. Contractors may also cooperate with suppliers that allow them to get materials at a lower cost. If possible, ask your contractor if they can get a bulk discount and pass the savings on to you. This can save you 5% to 10% on materials.

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  Time Your Project Wisely

  Consider scheduling your siding project during the off-peak season, such as late fall or winter. During these months, contractors are less busy and may offer discounts to fill their schedules. This can save you up to 10% on labor costs.

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  Use Local Contractors

  Hiring a local contractor can save you money on transportation and travel costs. Local contractors are often more familiar with regional building codes and may offer more competitive rates. This can save you 5% to 10% on the total project cost.

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  Look for Promotions or Discounts

  Some manufacturers and suppliers offer promotions or discounts on fiber cement siding. Check their websites or ask your contractor if there are any ongoing deals. These discounts can save you 5% to 15% on materials.

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  Negotiate with Your Contractor

  Don’t be afraid to negotiate the price with your contractor. They may be willing to reduce their fee or match a lower quote from another contractor. Even a small discount can save a lot of money. Negotiating effectively could save you 5% to 10% on the total cost.

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  Maintain Your Siding

  Proper maintenance can extend the life of your fiber cement siding. Regular cleaning and occasional repainting can keep your siding looking new and protect it from damage. Over time, good maintenance can save you thousands of dollars.

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  Avoid Unnecessary Extras

  While additional features like decorative trim or custom colors can enhance the look of your home, they can also add to the cost. Avoiding unnecessary extras can save you 10% to 20% on your siding project.

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  Do Some Work Yourself

  If you’re handy, consider doing some work yourself, like removing the old siding. This can lower labor costs, as contractors won’t have to spend time on this task.

Should You Install Fiber Cement Siding Yourself or Hire a Professional?

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Tips to Hire a Siding Professional

Hiring the right professional to install your fiber cement siding is crucial to ensure a high-quality job and avoid future problems. Here are some tips to help you find a reliable siding pro:

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  Look for licensed, insured, and bonded contractors.

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  Ask for proof of insurance and licenses.

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  Contact at least three different contractors.

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  Compare prices, but also consider experience and reputation.

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  Choose contractors with specific fiber cement siding experience.

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  Ensure all details are in writing, including timeline and materials. Don't sign until you fully understand all the terms.

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  Ask about both manufacturer and labor warranties. Make sure you understand the included coverage and for how long.

To find a reliable siding professional more easily, consider using Homebuddy.com. This service connects homeowners with top-rated contractors in their area. Just enter your project details, and HomeBuddy will match you with qualified professionals who can handle fiber cement siding installation.

Conclusion

Fiber cement siding offers a beautiful, durable, and low-maintenance solution for your home’s exterior. While the cost might be higher than other options, its longevity and potential for savings in the long run make it a worthwhile investment.
By understanding what factors affect the cost and how to cut your budget, you can achieve the perfect balance between quality and affordability. With careful planning and the right contractor, this can be a smart investment in your home’s future.

Frequently Asked Questions