How Much Does Siding Replacement Cost?
In 2026, the national average cost to replace siding on a typical 1,500–2,000 sq ft home is between $8,000 and $18,000. Budget options like vinyl can come in under $7,000 for a small home, while premium fiber cement or wood siding on a larger home can exceed $30,000.
New siding is one of the highest-ROI home improvements you can make. Fiber cement siding, in particular, consistently recoups 85–90% of costs at resale, and the curb appeal boost can make a home sell faster.
Cost by Siding Material
| Material | Cost per Sq Ft (Installed) | Lifespan |
|---|---|---|
| Vinyl Siding | $3 – $8 | 20–40 years |
| Fiber Cement (e.g. HardiePlank) | $6 – $12 | 25–50 years |
| Engineered Wood | $5 – $10 | 20–30 years |
| Natural Wood | $9 – $16 | 20–40 years |
| Aluminum / Steel | $4 – $9 | 30–50 years |
| Stucco | $6 – $9 | 50+ years |
| Brick Veneer | $9 – $15 | 100+ years |
Fiber cement installed in 2026 has improved UV resistance, with manufacturer warranties now extending to 30 years — a stronger long-term play vs. vinyl in high-sun and high-moisture markets.
What Drives the Cost?
- Home size: Siding is priced per square foot of wall surface, not floor space. A two-story home has far more wall area than a single-story ranch.
- Tear-off: Removing old siding adds $1–$3/sq ft. Some contractors will install over existing siding (not always recommended).
- Trim and accents: Corner boards, window trim, and decorative elements add to the total.
- Underlayment and moisture barrier: House wrap or rigid insulation behind siding adds $0.50–$1.50/sq ft but is essential for energy efficiency and moisture control.
- Labor: Accounts for 50–70% of the total cost. Multi-story homes, complex angles, and intricate trim increase labor time significantly.
Vinyl vs. Fiber Cement: Which Is Better?
Vinyl is the more affordable option, low-maintenance, and comes in many colors. It can fade over time and is more susceptible to cracking in extreme cold. Best for budget-conscious homeowners who want low maintenance.
Fiber cement (like HardiePlank) is more durable, resists rot, fire, and insects, and looks more like natural wood. It requires painting every 10–15 years and costs 50–70% more than vinyl. It's the better long-term investment and the clear choice if you plan to sell.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does new siding save on energy bills?
Properly installed siding with a moisture barrier and insulated underlayment can reduce heating/cooling costs by 10–20%. Insulated vinyl siding adds an extra R-value layer and is worth the modest upcharge.
Can I install siding over old siding?
It's possible with vinyl over old vinyl or wood, but not recommended if there's moisture damage, rot, or pest infestation underneath. Always inspect and repair the wall sheathing before new siding goes on.
💡 Best ROI Pick
Fiber cement siding (HardiePlank) consistently returns 85–90% of its cost at resale — one of the highest ROI exterior improvements you can make. If you're planning to sell within 5 years, it's the clear choice over vinyl.