Siding prices vary depending on several factors, which is why it is difficult to know the exact price of a siding. Aside from the factors that influence the price, different manufacturers also price siding differently for many reasons. Finding price estimates for siding is actually not that hard, but you may have to get a few estimates before you make a final decision on what your overall budget for siding is going to be.
Panel Thickness and Material Costs
Thickness is a major factor that affects siding prices. Siding is available in three grades, namely value, premium, and mid-grade.
Value grade siding is the thinnest siding, about 0.40 to 0.42 inches thick. It is also the least expensive type, with prices starting at around $45 per 100 square feet of material. However, value grade siding often lacks durability and it is more prone to bending, cracking, and buckling when exposed to the sun for a long time.
Premium grade siding is the thickest, and it can cost over $200.00 per 100 sq. feet of material. Its thickness ranges from 0.46 to 0.50 inches in thickness.
Thinner siding may ripple or become uneven overtime because of extreme temperature. Conversely, thicker siding is better at hiding imperfections and it provides additional protection, making it more expensive. Additionally, thicker siding is more resistant to high winds, which has a tendency to peel siding away.
Insulation
Insulated siding is usually more expensive than a regular siding, because of the energy efficiency benefits that it offers. It helps reduce unwanted heat gain through the walls of your home during hot seasons, and it helps keep your home warmer in the winter. It also protects your home from damaging UV rays.
You do not necessarily need to buy insulation along with your siding materials, especially if your home is sufficiently insulated, or if you live in an area with a moderate temperature or climate.
Design And Colors
Siding prices also vary depending on the design. More attractive designs are often pricier. If you have a low budget, it may be best to go for a more common design, such as five-inch or double-four clapboard styles. Colors affect prices as well. Siding with standard colors like white, gray, and ivory are generally cheaper.
Quality
Siding that is of a higher quality tends to be more expensive, but this is because it is more durable and it lasts longer. You may be tempted to go for cheaper siding that is of a substandard quality, to save money. Nonetheless, you should take into consideration that cheap siding will obtain damage easier and quicker, which means you will be replacing it sooner.
Estimated Siding Material Prices per 100 sq. feet
The highest quality sidings ranging from 0.44 to over 0.50 inches cost around $125 to $210. Medium quality sidings that are more or less 0.44 inches cost anywhere between $65 and $160. Lower quality sidings measuring below 0.44 inch cost around $55 to $110.
Installation Costs
Expect to pay anywhere from $130 to $250 for labor to install approximately 100 sq. feet of vinyl siding.
Expect to pay twice as much to install fiber cement siding.
Finally Expect to pay as much as $500 to install approximately 100 sq. feet of wood siding.
Summary:
When buying siding for your home, make sure to consider pros and cons of the top three house siding products (i.e vinyl, fiber cement board by Hardie plank, and cedar board) from leading manufacturers and suppliers, and do not make a buying decision based on siding prices alone. To ensure that you are getting your money’s worth, the manufacturer you choose should be known for producing quality siding, and the company you are buying from must be trustworthy and reliable.