Do you want to give your house exterior a perfect finish or protect your house from the environmental elements? Whatever the case is, you have to spend your hard-earned money on home siding! But why is siding so expensive? What factors affect its price?
Obviously, the material you choose, your location, home size, and the additional costs impact the pricing. Let’s get into the details of the factors so that you can make the most informed decision for your home without worrying about the cost.
Factors that impact the Siding Cost
Here you go!
Type of Material & its Quality
What type of siding material do you want for your house? The market is full of varieties with different pricing and features. Your choice of material impacts the initial outlay, its long-standing position, and maintenance costs over the years.
The first one is vinyl siding which is quite an affordable and popular option. You can get it around $3 to $7 per square foot installed. It is a durable and low-maintenance option and does not give a high-end aesthetic look compared to other materials.
The second one is wood siding that offers a traditional yet classic appearance but the cost is high, ranging from $6 to $12 per square foot. Moreover, the wood siding needs continuous maintenance, painting, and sealing to prevent pests and rot.
For fiber cement siding you can visit the Expert siding contractor in Metro Atlanta because they are known for their durability and resistance to weathering. It costs around $5 and $10 per square foot. Fiber cement gives a similar look to wood or stone but without the associated upkeep.
Stone or brick veneer is another option for homeowners. It is a high-end material that offers a premium look and is incredibly durable. Its costs can rise to $18 to $30 per square foot. The labor for installation is also more specialized and expensive.
Labor Costs
If you think siding is expensive then yes because for installation needs a professional labor team which can increase the cost. Sometimes, it surpasses the material cost. Hiring skilled labor is essential because they know how to prevent your siding from water damage, pests, and warping.
The installation becomes more complex if your home has multi-stories or detailed architectural style because it needs more labor. The skill and expertise of the installers affect long-term performance and durability. The quality of the labor will also affect how well the siding withstands harsh weather conditions.
Home Size and Design Complexity
Home size is the biggest factor in high siding prices because the larger homes take more material, time, and labor work which can increase the cost.
Homes with multiple stories, irregular shapes, or unique architectural features such as dormers, bay windows, or steep gables can increase the cost. You can get a detailed quote when planning your siding project to avoid surprises.
Insulation and Energy Efficiency
Some homeowners choose insulated siding or add insulation beneath the siding, which can improve energy efficiency. This option can increase the upfront cost but long-term benefit can settle everything well because of reduced heating and cooling bills over time. The cost of insulated siding generally ranges from $4 to $12 per square foot.
Certain materials, like fiber cement and insulated vinyl, offer better thermal performance than others. Insulation also requires additional installation labor, further increasing the total cost.
Geographic Location and Climate
You may think about how location and climate impact the siding pricing, but it does! First of all, labor rates vary from location to location. In urban areas, the cost is higher than in rural areas.
Secondly, the shipping costs of materials also vary. If you are far from a supplier, then expect to pay more. Moreover, the climate in your region can dictate the type of siding material you choose. For instance:
- In areas with extreme heat or cold, you may need to invest in materials like fiber cement or insulated vinyl, which can withstand such conditions.
- Coastal areas require materials resistant to moisture, salt, and wind, like engineered wood or vinyl, which are more expensive than regular siding.
Permits and Inspections
Some localities require building permits for exterior renovations like siding installation. While the cost of permits varies, it can add anywhere from a few hundred to a thousand dollars to the project.
Additionally, some jurisdictions mandate inspections to ensure the installation complies with local building codes, which could further increase the overall cost.
Removal of Old Siding
Removing your old siding also takes up an additional price of around $1,000 to $3,000 to your total bill. It also depends on the size of your home and the difficulty of removal.
Old siding materials like asbestos or lead-based paint need more effort and specialized removal and disposal, which can add up the cost of hiring professional labor and disposal.
Customization and Aesthetic Choices
If customization is what you want, then don’t complain about the high price! If you want a special color, texture, style, premium finishing, or matching trims, then expect to pay more. However, the basic colors and styles are more affordable, but custom orders or unusual designs may require longer lead times and additional shipping charges.
Warranties and Longevity
High-quality materials come with better warranties, which can justify the higher upfront cost. These warranties can range from 20 years to a lifetime and may cover issues such as material defects, fading, or cracking.
If you go for cheaper materials, you can save money in the short term, they may not hold up as well over time, and ultimately your siding will need replacement and repair and the costs can be high. A strong warranty can provide peace of mind, ensuring that your investment will be protected for years to come.
Conclusion: Is Expensive Siding Worth It?
Many factors can impact the siding cost but the quality of material, customizations, and other requirements can make the cost high. Yes, siding projects with high cost can give you multiple benefits in the long term which an ordinary siding can’t offer. I hope you understand everything now and can make an informed decision about your property.