Replacing home siding is a significant investment that involves various costs, from materials and labor to permits and potential repairs. Here’s a breakdown of what to expect, especially with a focus on Houston, Texas.
Key Highlights:
- Cost Calculation: Siding replacement costs are typically calculated by square footage for both materials and labor.
- Popular Materials: Common siding materials include aluminum, vinyl, wood, fiber cement, stone, and brick. Stone and real brick are generally the most expensive.
- Permits: Contractors need to obtain permits for siding replacement, with costs ranging from $150 to $1,500 nationally, depending on local regulations and project size. In Houston, permits for larger residential projects are often a percentage (around 1%) of the total project cost, with a minimum fee of around $90.
- Additional Repairs: Unexpected repairs, common in older homes or those with water damage, can increase overall costs.
Siding Replacement Cost in Houston, Texas
The average siding replacement cost in Houston, Texas, is around $11,533, with most projects ranging between $5,560 to $17,646 for materials and installation. However, the price can vary significantly, with projects ranging from a low of $250 for minor repairs up to $40,000 for extensive, high-end replacements.
For a 2,000 sq. ft. house in Houston, the average cost for siding replacement can range from $7,451 to $10,769, but could also be as low as $2,475 or as high as $15,843, depending on factors like material and complexity. Another estimate suggests that for a 2,000 sq. ft. house, the average cost for mid-range siding could be around $21,328, based on a mid-range quality siding costing $8.60 per square foot.
Siding Costs by Home Size
The overall cost scales with the size of your home. Here’s an estimated breakdown for common siding materials (vinyl, wood, aluminum, fiber cement) versus more premium options like brick or stone:
| Home Size (Sq. Ft.) | Average Cost for Siding (Vinyl, Wood, Aluminum, Fiber Cement) | Average Cost for Brick or Stone Siding |
| 1,000 | $1,000–$13,500 | $9,000–$50,000 |
| 1,500 | $1,500–$20,250 | $13,500–$75,000 |
| 2,000 | $2,000–$27,000 | $18,000–$100,000 |
| 2,500 | $2,500–$33,750 | $22,500–$125,000 |
| 3,000 | $3,000–$40,500 | $27,000–$150,000 |
Material Costs per Square Foot
Understanding the cost per square foot for different materials is crucial for budgeting:
| Siding Material | Cost per Sq. Ft. (Installed) | Lifespan |
| Wood | $1–$15 | 20–40 years |
| Engineered Wood | $1–$6 | 20–40 years |
| Aluminum | $3–$6 | 20–40 years |
| Vinyl | $3–$12 | 20–40 years |
| Brick Veneer | $3–$10 | 70–100 years |
| Stone Veneer | $5–$11 | 20–75 years |
| Fiber Cement | $5–$14 | 50 years |
| Steel | $4–$16 | 50 years |
| Stucco | $7–$9 | 50+ years |
| Stone | $7–$30 | 100+ years |
| Brick | $10–$20 | 100+ years |
Location-Based Cost Variations
Siding replacement costs are influenced by regional labor rates and material availability. While the provided text doesn’t specifically list Houston in the location table, other sources indicate that siding replacement in Houston can generally cost between $10,000 and $25,000+. For vinyl siding specifically in Houston, costs can range from $3 to $11 per square foot, with some estimates for labor and materials showing a range of $4.07 to $8.56 per square foot.
Additional Cost Factors
- Labor: Labor costs typically range from $1 to $4 per square foot nationally, or an average hourly rate of $40 to $75 per hour. In Houston, labor costs for installing siding can vary based on the material, with some estimates for vinyl siding labor around $2 to $7 per square foot. It’s crucial to confirm if labor is included in a contractor’s estimate.
- Home Shape and Design: Complex architectural designs, multiple stories, and numerous windows or corners require more custom cuts and labor, increasing costs. A simple box-shaped house will be less expensive to side than a custom-built home with turrets or intricate features.
- Old Siding Removal: This is an additional cost. Contractors often remove old siding to address underlying issues like pests, rot, or moisture. If the old siding is in good condition, layering new siding over it might be an option to save on removal costs, but this should be assessed by a professional.
- Old Siding Condition: Extensive chipping, wear, or damage to existing siding means more preparation work, which increases costs.
- Time of Year: Scheduling your project during the off-season (often summer or early winter in some regions, or spring and fall in others, depending on climate) can sometimes lead to discounts due to lower contractor demand.
- Permits: As noted, permits are often required and add to the project’s overall cost. In Houston, residential permits for larger projects are around 1% of the total project cost, with a minimum fee of about $90. Always check with your local municipality or a professional installer.
- Repairs Before Installation: If the underlying structure or sheathing is damaged (e.g., from water or pests), repairs will be necessary before new siding can be installed, adding to the expense.
DIY vs. Hiring a Professional
Siding installation is generally not recommended as a DIY project unless you have extensive experience. Improper installation can lead to moisture intrusion, a significantly shorter lifespan for the siding, and can even void manufacturer warranties. Hiring a professional siding contractor ensures the job is done correctly, efficiently, and with proper adherence to safety standards and building codes. Contractors often have access to better material pricing and are well-versed in handling project complexities.
Siding Replacement vs. Repair
The decision to repair or replace siding depends on several factors:
| Factor | Repair | Replacement |
| Repair Cost vs. New Siding | Less than 50% of replacement cost | More than 50% of replacement cost |
| Siding Age | Less than 20 years | More than 20 years |
| Extent of Damage | Localized damage | Widespread damage |
| Moisture Intrusion | Isolated moisture intrusion | Widespread moisture intrusion |
Value Added to Your Home
Replacing siding is considered a good investment, often yielding a high return on investment (ROI) of up to 80%. New siding significantly boosts curb appeal, making your home more attractive to prospective buyers if you plan to sell. It also enhances energy efficiency while you live there.
How to Lower Siding Costs
- Off-Season Installation: Inquire about discounts during contractors’ less busy periods (e.g., summer or early winter for some regions, or spring/fall depending on local climate).
- Get Multiple Estimates: Obtain at least three bids from reputable contractors to compare pricing and scope of work.
- Consider Veneers: Opt for brick or stone veneers to achieve a similar aesthetic at a lower cost than full brick or stone.
- Mix Siding Types: Use premium materials for accents or facades and combine them with more budget-friendly options like vinyl or engineered wood for the rest of the house.
- Add Insulation: Installing insulated siding or rigid board insulation underneath can increase upfront costs but leads to long-term savings on energy bills.