Siding replacement costs are most commonly calculated per square foot, which makes it easier to estimate pricing based on home size and material choice.
This page explains average siding costs per square foot, what’s included in those numbers, and how square footage translates into total project cost.
Average Siding Cost Per Square Foot
Most siding replacement projects fall between $4 and $12 per square foot, including materials and labor.
Typical per-square-foot ranges:
- Low end: $3–$5 (basic vinyl siding)
- Average: $6–$9
- High end: $10–$15+ (fiber cement, wood, complex installs)
Prices increase with premium materials, taller homes, and extensive prep work.
Siding Cost Per Square Foot by Material
Material choice has the largest impact on square-foot pricing.
- Vinyl siding: $4–$8 per sq ft
- Fiber cement siding: $6–$12 per sq ft
- Wood siding: $7–$15 per sq ft
- Engineered wood siding: $6–$10 per sq ft
- Metal siding: $5–$11 per sq ft
These ranges typically include labor but may exclude removal of old siding or repairs underneath.
How Square Footage Is Calculated
Contractors calculate siding square footage based on:
- Exterior wall dimensions
- Gables and dormers
- Window and door openings (sometimes excluded)
- Waste factor for cuts and overlaps
A typical single-story home has 1,200–2,000 square feet of siding surface area, while larger or two-story homes may exceed 2,500 square feet.
Example Siding Cost Estimates by Home Size
Approximate total costs using average materials:
- 1,500 sq ft home: $7,500–$13,500
- 2,000 sq ft home: $10,000–$18,000
- 2,500 sq ft home: $12,500–$22,500
Homes with multiple stories, steep roofs, or detailed trim typically fall on the higher end of these ranges.
What’s Usually Included in Per-Square-Foot Pricing
Most siding estimates include:
- Siding materials
- Basic trim pieces
- Labor for installation
- Standard fasteners and flashing
Often not included:
- Removal of old siding
- Rot or moisture repairs
- Insulation upgrades
- Permit fees
Always confirm what’s included before comparing bids.
When Cost Per Square Foot Increases
Siding costs rise when:
- Old siding must be removed
- Structural repairs are needed
- Installation requires scaffolding
- Premium trim or custom details are used
- Labor rates are high in your area
These factors can push pricing well above average ranges.
Related Siding Cost Guides
For material comparisons and decision-making, see: