If you are looking to replace the siding on your home, you may be wondering how much it is going to cost.
Well, today we’re talking about vinyl siding cost as well as the pros and cons of doing it yourself vs hiring a professional. It’s important to remember that your home’s siding is not only a great opportunity to showcase your style, but it is also a huge factor in your home’s property value.
If you live somewhere with sever weather conditions, it is also crucial to consider the durability of your siding and whether or not it’s necessary to invest in the extra cost of higher quality materials.
How much Does Vinyl Siding Cost?
DIY Vinyl Siding
For those who are toying with the idea of installing new vinyl siding themselves, there are a few things to consider. Price-wise, you can anticipate the cost of your materials to be between $5,000 and $8,000, depending on the quality of the materials and the resources that you utilize to get them. For labor, you can also anticipate between 50 and 150 hours of labor to complete the project, depending on your skill level and experience.
Despite saving money on the upfront costs of your materials, you also will save money on labor. However, where you save on money, you lose in time spent completing the project. Doing it yourself could potentially mean your home and yard are a mess for weeks to come. A professional could get it done in a matter of days, including clean-up.
If you are requesting help from friends or family, you may be able to shave down your time to finish the project, but may end up facing a slew of other complications. You will have to compensate them somehow, be mindful of any potential injuries and liabilities, plus having to be the project leader and direct everyone in their duties. Maybe you love being that hands-on, but it could also invite more stress and risk to the situation. Your homeowner’s insurance should have liability coverage, but despite having that coverage it ends up being one of the more expensive claims you can file. If you worry about covering someone else’s medical bills if an accident happens on your property, maybe reconsider doing it yourself.
For some people, doing it yourself makes sense both financially and timewise. Plus, if you have the time and skill to take care of it on your own, more power to you, go for it. For other people, that may not be the case, and their time is very valuable. Expanding your budget to allow for less time and faster results become worth it. In that situation, hiring a professional makes the most sense.
Hiring a Professional
Now, on the other side of the coin, if you choose to hire a professional siding company, you can anticipate, on average, $12,000 to $17,000 in cost for them to do the job on your home. First of all, the project would be done on their time, not yours, which means it could take far fewer labor hours to complete. This can be especially nice to get the project done faster so your life no longer needs disruption and you can have your new siding up within no time. In the midwest, there are only small windows of time where the weather is nice enough to get external home projects done quickly and easily, and a professional team can do that.
How to Install Vinyl Siding
Vinyl siding is a popular choice for homeowners due to its durability, low maintenance, and variety of styles. Installing vinyl siding can be a rewarding DIY project, but it requires careful planning and attention to detail. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you through the process:
1. Prepare Your Work Area
Before you begin, ensure your work area is clean and free of obstacles. Remove any old siding or debris from the exterior of your home. Inspect the wall for any damage or rot, and repair it as necessary. If the wall is uneven, consider installing furring strips to create a flat surface for the siding.
2. Gather Your Tools and Materials
You’ll need the following tools and materials to install vinyl siding:
- Vinyl siding panels
- Starter strips
- J-channel trim
- Undersill trim
- Utility knife or circular saw
- Measuring tape
- Hammer or power nailer
- Galvanized nails
- Level
- Chalk line
- Safety goggles and gloves
3. Install the Starter Strip
Begin by installing the starter strip at the bottom of the wall. This strip will anchor the first row of siding. Use a level to ensure the strip is straight, and attach it with galvanized nails, leaving space between the nails and the strip to allow for expansion.
4. Install the Corner Posts and Trim
Next, install the corner posts and J-channel trim around windows, doors, and other openings. These pieces help create a clean, finished look and provide a place for the siding panels to snap into. Make sure the trim is level and securely attached.
5. Measure and Cut the Siding Panels
Measure the length of the wall and cut the siding panels to fit. Remember to allow for expansion by leaving a small gap (about 1/4 inch) at the ends of each panel. Use a utility knife or circular saw to make precise cuts.
6. Attach the Siding Panels
Starting from the bottom, snap the first panel into the starter strip and nail it to the wall. Drive the nails through the center of the nailing slots, leaving a gap to allow for movement. Continue installing panels row by row, making sure to overlap the seams and stagger the joints for a natural appearance.
7. Install the Top Row
For the top row of siding, measure and cut the panels to fit under the eaves. Use undersill trim to secure the top edge of the panels. This trim helps hold the panels in place and provides a neat, finished look.
8. Final Inspection
Once all the siding is installed, inspect your work to ensure everything is secure and properly aligned. Check for any gaps or loose panels, and make adjustments as needed. Clean up your work area and dispose of any debris.
Tips for a Successful Installation
- Check the Weather: Choose a dry, mild day for your installation to avoid working in extreme temperatures or rain.
- Safety First: Wear safety goggles and gloves to protect yourself from sharp edges and debris.
- Follow Manufacturer’s Instructions: Each brand of vinyl siding may have specific installation guidelines, so always refer to the manufacturer’s instructions.
By following these steps, you can achieve a professional-looking vinyl siding installation that enhances the appearance and value of your home. If you’re unsure about any part of the process, consider consulting with a professional to ensure the best results.
Cost to Install Vinyl Siding
The cost to install vinyl siding can vary widely based on factors such as the size of your home, the type and quality of siding chosen, and labor costs in your area. On average, homeowners can expect to pay between $5,000 and $14,000 for a complete vinyl siding installation on a standard 2,000 square foot home. This includes both materials and labor, with materials typically costing between $1 and $8 per square foot and labor adding an additional $1 to $3 per square foot.
Premium vinyl siding options, such as insulated or designer styles, can increase the overall cost. Additionally, costs may rise if your home requires extensive prep work, such as removal of old siding or repair of the underlying structure. Obtaining multiple quotes from reputable contractors can help you find the best price for your project.
Top 5 Vinyl Siding Brands
When it comes to choosing vinyl siding for your home, selecting a reputable brand is crucial to ensure durability, aesthetic appeal, and overall satisfaction. Here are some of the top vinyl siding brands that homeowners and contractors trust for their quality and performance:
1) CertainTeed
CertainTeed is a leading name in the building materials industry, renowned for its high-quality vinyl siding products. Their siding options come in a variety of styles and colors, offering excellent durability and weather resistance. CertainTeed’s Cedar Impressions line mimics the look of real wood shingles, providing a charming and classic appearance with the low maintenance benefits of vinyl.
2) Mastic by Ply Gem
Mastic, a brand under Ply Gem, is another top contender in the vinyl siding market. Mastic offers a broad range of styles, from traditional lap siding to vertical siding, ensuring there’s an option for every architectural preference. Known for their SolarDefense technology, Mastic vinyl siding provides superior protection against UV rays, preventing fading and maintaining vibrant colors over time.
3) Alside
Alside has been a trusted name in the vinyl siding industry for over 70 years. They offer an extensive selection of siding products, including insulated vinyl siding that enhances energy efficiency and reduces heating and cooling costs. Alside’s Prodigy line is particularly popular for its exceptional insulation properties and seamless appearance.
4) Royal Building Products
Royal Building Products offers a wide array of vinyl siding options that cater to various design preferences and performance needs. Their Cedar Renditions line, for instance, provides the authentic look of real wood without the associated maintenance. Royal’s vinyl siding products are known for their robust construction, resistance to impacts, and impressive color retention.
5) Georgia-Pacific
Georgia-Pacific vinyl siding is celebrated for its affordability and reliability. Their Shadow Ridge line, for example, is designed to replicate the look of real wood siding, offering homeowners a cost-effective yet stylish exterior solution. Georgia-Pacific siding products are also engineered to withstand harsh weather conditions, ensuring long-lasting beauty and performance.
Choosing the right vinyl siding brand can make a significant difference in the longevity and appearance of your home’s exterior. These top brands offer a range of options to suit different tastes and budgets, ensuring you find the perfect match for your home improvement project.
Getting Your New Siding Installed
Maybe you’ve given DIY a shot before. Or maybe you just value your time and don’t want to stress about whether or not you’re installing your home siding correctly. Whatever the case, the first step in hiring the right siding contractor for the job is to explore your options. It’s important that the job gets done right the first time, and Northface Construction offers free inspections with transparent communication so that every homeowner on the same page about their repair needs and taken care of.
Contact us today if you have any questions or for a free quote.
