How Much Does It Cost to Replace Wood Siding?

Wood Siding: Pros and Cons

Many homeowners have preferred wood siding for their homes for centuries. However, like any building material, it has its strong and weak points. Here’s a closer look at them.

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What Factors Affect the Wood Siding Prices

Type of Wood

The chosen type of wood significantly impacts the project cost. Different wood species have varying levels of durability, appearance, and price. Here are some possible options:

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Siding Style

Wood siding comes in various styles, each affecting the cost differently:

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  Clapboard siding:

  A traditional style that overlaps horizontally. It typically costs $6 to $10 per square foot.

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  Shingles and Shakes:

  Offer a rustic look but require more labor. The price for these styles can range from $7 to $14 per square foot.

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  Board and Batten:

  Board and Batten: A vertical style that’s popular for farmhouse aesthetics, costing between $5 and $9 per square foot.

Wood Grade

The wood grade determines the quality and durability of the siding. Higher grades are more expensive but offer better longevity and appearance:

• Standard Grade$3.50 - $12.50 per square foot
• Premium Grade$8.00 - $23.50 per square foot

Size and Complexity of Your House

The larger your home’s exterior, the more siding material and labor will be required, leading to higher costs. Additionally, complex architectural features like dormers, gables, and multiple stories complicate the installation and increase labor costs.

Finishing and Treatment

Wood siding must be painted or stained to protect it from moisture, insects, and UV damage.

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  Painting:

  Costs typically range from $1,000 to $3,000 for a complete paint job, depending on the size of the house.

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  Staining:

  Generally, it’s less expensive than painting, with prices between $750 and $2,500. However, both options require reapplication every few years to maintain durability and appearance.

Removal of Old Siding

If you’re replacing existing siding, you may need to factor in the cost of removing and disposing of the old material. This process can add $1,000 to $3,000 to the total project cost, depending on the size of the house and the type of old siding.

Condition of the House

If your home has structural damage or issues like mold or rot underneath the old siding, you may need to repair it before installing the new siding. These repairs can add anywhere from $500 to $5,000 to your total project cost, depending on the severity of the damage.

Labor Costs

Labor is another major factor that affects the overall expense. The complexity of the installation, house size, and local labor rates play a role in determining the final cost. On average, labor for wood siding installation ranges from $2 to $5 per square foot. Homes with more intricate designs, such as multiple stories or irregular shapes, will have higher labor costs to install lap siding due to the extra time and effort required.

Geographic Location

Labor costs and material availability vary by region, impacting the overall price. In areas with higher living costs, expect labor and materials to be more expensive. Urban areas tend to have higher rates than rural areas. The difference can be significant, with costs in some regions being up to 20% higher.

Season

Siding installation during peak season (usually summer) may cost more due to higher demand. Off-season installations might offer discounts.

Additional Costs

Don’t forget to factor in additional engineered wood siding costs such as:

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  Permits and inspections:

  Check with your local building department to see if any permits are required for your siding replacement project.

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  Painting or staining:

  If you choose unfinished wood siding, the cost of painting or staining will add to the total.

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  Trim and accessories:

  Consider the cost of trim, corner boards, and other accessories needed to complete your siding installation.

Install a Wood Siding Yourself or Hire a Pro?

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When hiring a professional, it’s essential to choose a reputable contractor with experience.

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  Get Multiple Estimates:

  Compare 3 to 5 in-person estimates from different contractors. Ensure they provide similar details for an accurate comparison.

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  Check Credentials:

  Choose licensed, bonded, and insured companies with at least 5 years of experience in wood siding installation.

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  Ask for References:

  Request local references to verify the contractor's reliability and quality of work.

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  Beware of Low Bids:

  Avoid contractors with significantly lower prices, as this may indicate poor quality work.

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  Written Contract:

  Sign a written contract that includes all details, such as labor, materials, and cleanup.

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  Payment Terms:

  Do not make the final payment until the job is complete to ensure satisfaction with the work done.

Homebuddy.com is a service for finding a wood siding professional. It connects homeowners with qualified contractors in their area, allowing users to compare multiple professionals based on reviews, qualifications, and pricing. This platform simplifies the process of finding the right contractor for your siding project, ensuring that you can make an informed decision based on real homeowner experiences.

Conclusion

Replacing wood siding is a significant investment, but it can greatly enhance your home’s appearance and value. Costs vary based on factors like material type, labor, and location.
Whether you choose to DIY or hire a professional, careful planning and research will help ensure a successful wood siding replacement project. By weighing all the factors discussed in this article, you’ll be well-equipped to make an informed choice that balances your budget with your home improvement goals.

Frequently Asked Questions