1. Average Costs
- Materials: $1–$30+ per square foot.
- Labor: $2–$5 per square foot.
- Total: $3–$35+ per square foot.
2. Factors Affecting Costs
a. Home Size
- Larger homes require more materials and labor, increasing the overall cost.
b. Siding Material
| Material | Cost (Per Square Foot) | Features |
|------------------|----------------------------|----------------------------------|
| Pine | $1–$5 | Affordable, classic look. |
| Douglas Fir | $3–$5 | Durable, easy to install. |
| Cedar | $3–$30 | Resistant to pests and moisture. |
| Hardwoods | $5–$20 | Ipe, teak; highly durable. |
| Cypress | $5–$12 | Rot-resistant, long-lasting. |
| Redwood | $4–$20 | Insect and moisture resistance. |
3. Styles and Costs
| Style | Cost (Materials + Labor) |
|--------------------|-----------------------------|
| Board & Batten | $5–$14 |
| Tongue & Groove| $7–$20 |
| Shingle | $7.50–$21 |
| Shiplap | $8.50–$21 |
| Shake | $8.50–$23 |
| Log | $9–$25 |
4. Additional Costs
- Old Siding Removal: $1,000–$3,000 (or $0.25–$0.75 per square foot).
- Wall Repairs: $50–$70/hour, or $2–$50 per square foot.
- Painting/Staining: $1–$3 per square foot ($700–$3,000 total).
- Moisture Barrier: $0.50–$2 per square foot.
- Trim Installation: $2–$7 per linear foot.
- Soffits & Fascia: $3–$8 per linear foot.
- Permits: $150–$2,000 (varies by location).
5. DIY vs. Hiring a Pro
DIY Installation
- Costs: $1–$30 per square foot (materials only).
- Savings: $2–$5 per square foot on labor.
- Challenges: Requires precision, power tools, and expertise; mistakes can lead to water or air leaks.
Hiring a Professional
- Benefits: Ensures proper installation, long-term durability, and reduced risks.
- Labor Costs: $2–$5 per square foot.
6. How to Save on Wood Siding Costs
- Select Budget-Friendly Woods: Pine or Douglas fir.
- Use Low/Mid-Grade Wood: Suitable for mild climates.
- DIY Old Siding Removal: Save $1,000–$3,000.
- Flexible Scheduling: Book contractors during off-season.
- Get Multiple Quotes: Compare estimates from at least three local siding contractors.
- Schedule Early: Lock in pricing and availability well in advance.
7. Wood Siding Longevity
- Lifespan: 20–40 years with maintenance.
- Maintenance:
- Repaint/re-stain every 5 years.
- Replace rotted boards as needed.
- Protect against moisture, UV rays, and pests.
8. Pros and Cons
Pros
- Natural, classic beauty.
- Eco-friendly and renewable.
- Increases home value.
Cons
- Requires regular maintenance.
- Prone to rot, pests, and mold without protective coatings.
- Higher upfront costs compared to alternatives like vinyl.
Wood siding combines timeless aesthetics with eco-conscious benefits—but requires care to maintain its charm and durability.
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