Written by Amy Whittle

When compared with the expense of other exterior cladding options, vinyl siding costs are often the prime benefit of installing vinyl siding. Not only are the material costs low, but also there is an opportunity to save significantly on labor costs due to the ease of installation.

Evaluating vinyl siding costs

Like all exterior cladding options, vinyl siding prices are influenced by several factors. Panel thickness is the largest variable — but don't be tempted to get the thinnest panels just to save on cost. Panels that are too thin may show flaws in the exterior envelope and be prone to damage. Builder grade is the thinnest panel thickness available at .040 millimeters. Thin residential grade is .042 mm, standard residential grade is .044 mm, thick residential grade is .046 mm, and super thick grade is .050 mm. In general, a homeowner should choose at least standard residential grade. The cost difference will be several hundred dollars, but the additional quality of the product is considerable.

Manufacturers also have varying price points. However, there are considerable advantages to choosing a reputable manufacturer. A company that has been in business for several years will have refined its manufacturing techniques, can honor warrantees, and will be able to offer replacement panels if needed.

Cost of vinyl siding: from tear off to installation

Purchasing vinyl siding is only a small portion of the cost associated with installing siding on a building. Be sure to account for all of these costs when budgeting for new exterior cladding.

Tear off. The existing cladding often must be removed at a cost of $1,000-$3,000 or more, depending on the size of the building. Most contractors will also charge an additional fee for disposal.

Insulation. Due to the low R-value of vinyl siding, your contractor may suggest adding additional insulation before installation. Insulation costs range from less than a $1 per square foot to $5 per square foot and up. Expect this additional labor to also cost several hundred dollars, depending on the size of the building.

Materials. Vinyl siding cost varies widely according to the thickness chosen and other options available through different manufacturers. In general, you can expect vinyl siding to cost less than $1 for the most inexpensive material available, up to $6 per square foot for specialty architectural shapes.

Installation. Contractors may charge per square foot or a standard fee to complete the job. Expect an additional $1-$6 per square foot in labor costs, depending on the part of the country in which you live. Vinyl siding cost may seem expensive, but it is often less than half the cost of traditional cladding options such as cedar siding or brick. However, some areas, such as historic neighborhoods, have outlawed this option. Check local building codes and ordinances before installation to avoid a costly mistake that will have to be removed.

Because of the highly variable costs of vinyl siding projects, it's important to compare estimates from several providers before you make your final decision. The fastest way to get multiple competing bids is to use the BuyerZone price quote request service. It's fast, easy, and free: just answer a few simple questions about your project and we'll match you to contractors who will compete for your business. Try it today.