How Much Does It Cost to Replace Asbestos Siding?

On February 16, 2025 By newsroom Topic: Home Services

Removing and replacing asbestos siding is a costly but necessary process for safety and compliance. Here's a comprehensive breakdown:

1. Cost

Average Cost: $5,700
Normal Range: $3,500–$11,000
Low End: $690
High End: $20,000

2. Cost Breakdown

Factors Influencing Cost:
- Size of House: More exterior square footage = higher cost.
- Type of Siding Containing Asbestos:
- Brick Siding: Asbestos in the mortar.
- Cement Siding: Asbestos fibers mixed into cement, often in shingle form.
- Replacement Material: Costs vary by material (see below).
- Labor: Specialized contractors for asbestos removal increase costs.

3. Cost by Siding Type

| Siding Type | Cost per Square Foot |
|-----------------------|--------------------------|
| Vinyl | $3–$7 |
| Wood | $5–$10 |
| Fiber Cement | $5–$9 |
| Stucco | $9–$12 |
| Brick Veneer | $3–$10 |
| Stone Veneer | $10–$15 |

4. Size and Removal Costs

| Exterior Size (sq. ft.) | Removal Cost |
|-----------------------------|------------------|
| 90 | $720 |
| 200 | $1,600 |
| 600 | $4,800 |
| 1,300 | $10,400 |
| 2,000 | $16,000 |

Note: Average homes in the U.S. have ~1,500 sq. ft. of exterior wall space.

5. Labor Costs

Asbestos Removal: ~$200/hour or ~$8/sq. ft.
Roof Shingle Removal: $20–$120/sq. ft. (complex jobs cost more).
Siding Replacement: Varies by material and contractor.

6. DIY vs. Hiring a Pro

DIY for Siding Replacement:
Cost-saving but labor-intensive (weeks of work for a whole house).
Never DIY asbestos removal due to health risks and safety regulations.
Hiring a Pro:
Ensures safe asbestos removal.
Professional installation of new siding saves time and ensures quality.

7. Money-Saving Tips

Negotiate: Secure bulk discounts or package deals with contractors.
Choose Affordable Materials: Opt for vinyl or brick veneer over premium options like stucco or stone veneer.
Time It Right: Avoid peak seasons for better contractor rates.
Split the Job: Use one contractor for removal and another for replacement if it’s cheaper.

8. Key Takeaways

Asbestos siding removal is highly specialized and should be handled by experts.
Replacement costs depend on materials, size, and labor.
Investing in cost-effective materials and strategic scheduling can significantly reduce costs.

Safety First: Always hire licensed asbestos abatement professionals to ensure your home and health are protected.