How much does new siding cost?

For a typical home (1,500 sq ft of siding area): vinyl: $4,500-$12,000. Engineered wood: $7,500-$15,000. Fiber cement: $9,000-$19,500. Natural wood (cedar): $9,000-$18,000. Stone veneer: $18,000-$37,500+. Additional costs: old siding removal ($1,000-$3,000), trim/soffit/fascia ($2,000-$5,000), and any structural repairs. Total project cost including everything: $6,000-$30,000+ depending on material and home size.

What is the best siding material?

Best overall value: fiber cement (James Hardie). Extremely durable (30-50 years). Fire-resistant, rot-proof, termite-proof. Holds paint beautifully. Best resale value (70-80% ROI). Only downside: heavier and more expensive to install. Best budget: vinyl. Cheapest, zero painting maintenance, 20-40 year life. Best appearance: natural wood (cedar or redwood). Nothing beats the look of real wood. Highest maintenance. Best balance: engineered wood (LP SmartSide). Looks like real wood, easier to install than fiber cement, 30-50 year warranty. The recommendation for most homes: fiber cement if budget allows, or engineered wood for a slightly more affordable wood-look option. Vinyl if budget is the primary concern.

How long does siding last?

Vinyl: 20-40 years. Engineered wood: 30-50 years (with proper maintenance). Fiber cement: 30-50+ years. Natural wood: 20-40 years (with diligent maintenance). Metal (aluminum/steel): 40-60+ years. Brick: 50-100+ years. Stone: 50-100+ years. Factors that shorten lifespan: improper installation (the number one cause of premature failure). Lack of maintenance (especially wood and engineered wood). Moisture intrusion (from flashing or caulking failures). Extreme weather exposure (hail, high winds, intense sun). Signs it is time to replace: warping, buckling, or bulging. Rot or soft spots. Frequent painting (every 1-2 years instead of 5-7). Fading that cannot be corrected. Mold or mildew that keeps returning. Rising energy bills (poor insulation behind siding).

Can you put new siding over old siding?

Sometimes, but it is generally not recommended. When it is acceptable: going over one layer of existing flat siding (such as wood clapboard). The existing siding is in good condition (no rot, no moisture damage). Local building codes allow it. Pros: saves removal cost ($1,000-$3,000). Less disruption. Cons: hides potential damage (rot, mold, insects). Adds weight to the wall. Creates an uneven surface. May void the new siding warranty. Cannot inspect or upgrade house wrap or insulation. When it is NOT acceptable: existing siding is damaged, rotting, or moldy. There are already two layers of siding. You are switching to a heavier material (like fiber cement). Local codes prohibit it. The recommendation: remove old siding whenever possible. The additional $1,000-$3,000 cost is worth it to inspect and repair the sheathing, upgrade house wrap, and ensure a proper installation.

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Siding & Exterior

Siding Guide: Types, Cost, Pros & Cons

Lumberama Editorial Team, Siding & Home Exterior Specialists Oct 31, 2026 10 min read

Siding Types

Vinyl siding: The most popular siding in America (over 30% of homes). Made from PVC (polyvinyl chloride). Pros: most affordable, low maintenance (no painting), wide color selection, easy to install, 20-40 year lifespan. Cons: can crack in extreme cold, can warp in extreme heat, fades over time, cannot be painted easily, less premium appearance. Cost: $3-$8 per square foot installed.

Fiber cement (e.g. James Hardie): Made from cement, sand, and cellulose fibers. Pros: extremely durable, fire-resistant (Class 1A), rot-proof, termite-proof, holds paint well, can mimic wood grain or stucco, 30-50 year lifespan. Cons: heavy (harder to install), more expensive than vinyl, requires repainting every 10-15 years. Cost: $6-$13 per square foot installed. James Hardie is the dominant brand (over 90% of fiber cement market).

Engineered wood (e.g. LP SmartSide): Made from wood strands bonded with resin and treated with zinc borate (insect and decay resistant). Pros: looks like real wood, lighter than fiber cement, can be painted any color, good impact resistance, 30-50 year warranty. Cons: requires painting, can be susceptible to moisture if not properly maintained. Cost: $5-$10 per square foot installed.

Natural wood: Cedar, redwood, pine, or cypress. Pros: beautiful natural appearance, can be painted or stained any color, environmentally friendly. Cons: most maintenance-intensive (painting/staining every 3-7 years), susceptible to rot, insects, and fire, most expensive. Cost: $6-$12 per square foot (cedar clapboard, installed).

Metal (aluminum or steel): Pros: extremely durable, fire-resistant, pest-proof, recyclable. Cons: can dent, industrial appearance (unless painted), conducts heat. Cost: $4-$10 per square foot installed.

Stone veneer: Natural or manufactured stone applied to the exterior. Pros: stunning appearance, very durable. Cons: very expensive, heavy (may need structural support). Cost: $12-$25+ per square foot installed.

Cost

Average home (1,500 sq ft of siding): Vinyl: $4,500-$12,000. Engineered wood: $7,500-$15,000. Fiber cement: $9,000-$19,500. Natural wood (cedar): $9,000-$18,000. Metal: $6,000-$15,000. Stone veneer: $18,000-$37,500+.

Factors that affect cost: Home size and stories (taller homes cost more per square foot due to scaffolding). Removal of old siding ($1,000-$3,000). Repairs to sheathing or framing (if damage is found). Trim, soffit, and fascia ($2,000-$5,000 additional). Insulation (adding house wrap or insulated panels). Complexity (dormers, gables, many windows to trim around).

Return on investment: Fiber cement siding: 70-80% ROI (one of the best exterior improvements). Vinyl siding: 65-75% ROI. Natural wood: 70-80% ROI. Siding replacement is consistently one of the top home improvements for resale value.