Enhancing your home’s exterior with new siding is a significant investment that can dramatically boost its curb appeal and durability. In Virginia, homeowners often prioritize materials like Fiber Cement (especially Hardie Plank) for its aesthetic appeal, durability, and low maintenance, while vinyl siding remains popular due to its affordability and ease of care.
Cost to Re-Side a House in Virginia
The cost to re-side a house in Virginia can vary widely, ranging from $2,120 to $94,500, depending primarily on the chosen material, the size of the house, and the complexity of the installation. Siding is often priced by the “square,” which is a 10’x10′ area (100 square feet), similar to roofing. This method helps account for the actual material needed, as factors like basements or finished attics can affect the total surface area requiring siding.
Siding Material Costs and National Averages
Here’s a breakdown of common siding materials, their cost per square foot, and national average installation costs:
| Siding Material | Cost Per Square Foot | National Average Installation Cost |
| Vinyl Siding | $1.21 – $12.15 | $2,120 – $15,205 |
| Aluminum Siding | $1.54 – $7.15 | $2,902 – $14,100 |
| Stucco Siding | $5.01 – $8.33 | $9,600 – $18,601 |
| Fiber Cement Siding | $5.10 – $17.00 | $10,700 – $23,605 |
| Brick Siding | $5.20 – $14.43 | $9,450 – $30,550 |
| Wood Siding | $8.43 – $12.39 | $16,100 – $21,000 |
| Natural Stone Siding | $27.00 – $44.01 | $45,000 – $94,500 |
It’s important to note that these are ballpark figures. Local labor rates, shipping costs, and project specifics can cause regional variations. For instance, Hardie Plank (a brand of fiber cement) installation costs in Virginia typically range from $6 to $15 per square foot, including materials ($2 to $6 per square foot) and labor ($4 to $9 per square foot).
Cost Increases with Trim
The costs listed above typically do not include trim work. Adding a full trim package (fascia, soffit, windows, doors, rakes, contour blocks, barge, and shingle molding) can increase the total cost of the siding job by 30-50%, depending on the specific siding product being installed.
Key Factors Influencing Siding Project Costs
When planning your siding project, consider these elements:
- Siding Material Type: This is the primary cost driver. Vinyl is generally the most cost-effective, while natural stone and brick are premium options. Fiber cement offers a high-end look with excellent durability.
- Home Size and Layout: Larger homes or those with complex architectural designs (multiple stories, intricate angles, numerous windows/doors) require more materials and labor, increasing overall costs.
- Labor Costs: Professional installation costs vary significantly. In Richmond, VA, for example, labor costs can sometimes equal or exceed material costs, especially for intricate installations. For vinyl siding specifically in Richmond, labor can be around $1,048 to $1,192 for 1602 square feet, or roughly $2 to $7 per square foot.
- Old Siding Removal: If replacing existing siding, the cost of removal, dismantling, and disposal can add significant fees, especially for damaged or hazardous materials.
- Quality of Siding Materials: Higher-quality materials (e.g., insulated vinyl siding, premium engineered wood) may have a higher upfront cost but often offer better durability and energy efficiency, leading to long-term savings on energy bills and fewer repairs.
- House Style: Homes with many windows, large garage doors, or other features that interrupt the siding’s flow can make installation more complex and increase costs.
- Preparation Work: Repairing damaged exterior walls or updating insulation before siding installation adds to the cost but is crucial for the new siding’s performance and longevity. Skipping these steps can lead to more expensive issues down the line.
- Siding Customization and Special Features: Unique styles, special finishes, or architectural details (like log siding, trim work, soffits, fascia) add to material and labor costs.
- Geographic Location: Local labor rates, the availability of specific materials, and regional building codes can all influence the final siding cost.
Maintenance and Long-Term Siding Costs
Different siding materials require varying levels of maintenance:
- Vinyl Siding: Known for low maintenance, typically requiring only a simple wash. Lifespan of 20-30 years. Insulated vinyl offers energy efficiency benefits.
- Fiber Cement Siding: Durable, fire-resistant, and can mimic wood or stone. Offers significant savings over time due to reduced maintenance and longer lifespans (often 50+ years).
- Natural Stone Siding: Offers unparalleled durability and a distinct aesthetic but has higher upfront costs and ongoing maintenance compared to fiber cement.
- Wood Siding: Provides a classic look and can last up to 100 years with proper maintenance, including regular painting or staining to prevent decay and insect damage.
- Aluminum Siding: Durable and low maintenance, resisting rust and lasting up to 50 years, though it may dent more easily.
- Stucco Siding: Known for its classic look and adaptability; lifespan of 50+ years.
High-quality materials often have higher initial costs but can result in lower long-term maintenance expenses and longer lifespans, making them a worthwhile investment.
DIY vs. Professional Siding Installation
While DIY siding installation might seem like a way to save money, it carries significant risks. Improper installation can lead to water damage, poor insulation, and even void manufacturer warranties, ultimately increasing long-term costs. Professional siding installers offer expertise, precision, efficiency, and often provide warranties on their work, ensuring a high-quality, durable, and code-compliant installation.
Permits
Building permits for siding replacement are generally required and can cost anywhere from $150 to $1,500 nationally. In Virginia, permit fees can be assessed based on construction value. For example, some jurisdictions might charge a base fee plus a rate per $1,000 of construction value, or a percentage of the estimated project cost (e.g., 1%). Always check with your local municipality or a professional siding installer to determine specific permit requirements and fees in your area.
Does Replacing Siding Increase Home Value?
Yes, replacing siding is a valuable investment. It significantly increases your home’s value and offers one of the highest returns on investment (ROI) for home improvement projects, with an ROI potentially as high as 80%. New siding enhances curb appeal and can make your home more attractive to prospective buyers.
Local Siding Contractors in Virginia
For homeowners in Richmond, VA, and surrounding areas, reputable siding installers include:
- Regal Home Improvement: Known for quality, precision, and customer satisfaction.
- Jacob’s Ladder: Has a strong reputation for professional siding services.
- Tredegar Construction, LLC: Experienced in various siding materials and tailored solutions.
- Distinct Renovations, LLC: Excels in both residential and commercial siding projects with a focus on high-quality installation.
To begin your siding transformation, it’s recommended to contact a local contractor to discuss your project, explore material options, and obtain a detailed estimate.