Installing vinyl siding is a smart way to give your home a fresh look while improving durability—and it’s more affordable than many other siding options. On average, vinyl siding installation costs between $7,250 and $23,200, with high-end projects reaching up to $32,800 for larger homes or premium materials.
The biggest cost factors include the size of your home, the style of siding, and labor rates in your area. While smooth and clapboard styles cost as little as $3 to $5 per square foot, more decorative styles like scalloped or board and batten can range from $5 to $11 per square foot.
In this guide, I’ll break down the cost of vinyl siding by style, home size, and other factors to help you plan your project. Whether you’re considering DIY installation or hiring a pro, I’ll share tips to ensure you get the best results without overspending.
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What Is the Cost of Vinyl Siding?
Vinyl siding installation typically costs between $7,250 and $23,200, with an average cost of around $15,225. For larger homes or premium materials, the price can go as high as $32,800. Material costs usually range from $3 to $11 per square foot, while labor adds an additional $2 to $5 per square foot.
Vinyl Siding Costs
Type of Cost | Amount |
Average Cost | $15,225 |
Highest Cost | $32,800 |
Lowest Cost | $4,000 |
What Is the Cost of Vinyl Siding by Style?
The cost of vinyl siding varies depending on the style you choose. Smooth and clapboard styles are the most affordable, typically ranging from $3 to $5 per square foot. Beaded, Dutch lap, and cedar texture siding offer more detailed designs and cost between $4 and $6 per square foot. Shake profiles mimic hand-cut wood and cost around $6 to $7 per square foot. Scalloped and board and batten styles fall in the $4 to $9 per square foot range, while the log look style is the most expensive at $5 to $11 per square foot.
Vinyl Siding Cost by Style
Vinyl Siding Style | Cost Per Square Foot |
Smooth | $3–$4.50 |
Clapboard | $3–$5 |
Beaded | $4–$6 |
Dutch lap | $4–$6 |
Cedar texture | $4–$6 |
Shake profile | $6–$7 |
Scalloped | $4–$9 |
Board and Batten | $5–$9 |
Log Look | $5–$11 |
Smooth
Smooth siding costs $3 to $4.50 per square foot. This style has a smooth, untextured surface that creates a clean, modern look. The plain surface makes the color pop, helping improve your home’s curb appeal instantly.
Clapboard
The price of clapboard siding is between $3 and $5 per square foot. Also known as traditional lap siding, this style features long boards installed horizontally with a slight overlap. In addition to looking fantastic, this design elevates vinyl’s natural weather-resistant properties.
Beaded
Expect to pay around $4 to $6 per square foot for beaded vinyl siding. A true Southern classic, this style has a small bead or groove along the bottom of each board. Although the details are small, beaded siding can make homes look more sophisticated and refined.
Dutch Lap
Dutch lap siding costs around $4 to $6 per square foot. This style has handcrafted appeal due to the bevel cut at the top of each plank. The distinctive shadow line creates a classic look that many homeowners favor.
Cedar Texture
The price of cedar texture siding is around $4 to $6 per square foot. The realistic cedar grain adds visual appeal without having to worry about the drawbacks of wood siding. You can get cedar texture on vinyl boards, shakes, and other popular styles.
Shake Profile
If you want vinyl shake siding, it’ll cost about $6 to $7 per square foot. The shake shingle profile makes it look like real cedar, but it won’t weather and break apart like wood eventually does. The hand-sawn texture creates a unique exterior design that emits rustic charm.
Scalloped
Scalloped vinyl siding costs anywhere from $4 to $9 per square foot. Its design is similar to cedar shakes, except each piece has a rounded edge at the bottom. Although it’s often used as gable accents, it’s particularly striking when used as the primary siding choice.
Board and Batten
Board and batten siding costs anywhere from $5 to $9 per square foot. This vertical vinyl siding style has wide boards separated by thin batten strips installed over the seams. Its vertical pattern has a retro vibe, setting your home design apart from the rest.
Log Look
Vinyl log look siding is around $5 to $11 per square foot. This material is reminiscent of log cabin but with plenty of modern flair. You can get yours with a subtle wood grain or go with the rough-cut style for rural elegance.
What Does Vinyl Siding Cost by Size?
The size of your home plays a major role in determining the total cost of a vinyl siding project. Smaller homes, around 800 square feet, can cost between $4,000 and $13,600, while re-siding a 3,500-square-foot home may cost between $10,250 and $32,800. Mid-size homes around 2,000 square feet fall within the average price range of $7,250 to $23,200. As the size increases, the material and labor costs increase proportionally.
Vinyl Siding Cost by Home Size
Home Size (by square feet) | Average Cost (Installed) |
800 | $4,000–$13,600 |
1,000 | $5,250–$16,800 |
1,500 | $6,250–$20,000 |
2,000 | $7,250–$23,200 |
2,500 | $8,250–$26,400 |
3,000 | $9,250–$29,600 |
3,500 | $10,250–$32,800 |
Which Factors Impact How Much Vinyl Siding Costs?
Several factors beyond style and home size can affect the total cost of your vinyl siding project. Material quality plays a significant role. Builder’s grade siding costs as little as $2 per square foot, but it sacrifices durability and aesthetics. Premium-grade siding, which costs almost twice as much, offers better weather protection and longer-lasting performance. Insulated vinyl siding adds to the upfront cost but can reduce energy bills over time.
Labor rates typically fall between $2 and $5 per square foot, or about $50 to $100 per hour. Homes with complex designs, multiple stories, or intricate details can increase labor costs due to the extra time and effort involved. Scheduling the installation during peak seasons, like summer, may also result in higher labor charges.
Home design complexity can increase costs by as much as 35% for homes with multiple levels or intricate styles like Victorian or Queen Anne designs. Although these homes don’t require significantly more materials, the added labor increases the overall price.
Your property’s location can also impact costs. Homes in remote areas may face higher delivery fees, while those in urban areas may have higher labor rates due to demand. Additionally, local regulations may require building permits and inspections, adding a few hundred dollars to the final bill.
Customizations like decorative trim, diagonal designs, or painted siding can drive up the cost significantly. Painting vinyl siding can cost $2,500 to $5,000, while adding stylish trim or installing new gutters can add $1,000 to $5,000.
When trying to save money on a vinyl siding project, don’t skimp on surface prep. Check the exterior wall surface for signs of rot or existing damage. Invest in the right sheathing, flashing, and insulation for your area. If your area gets a lot of rain, you’ll benefit from installing waterproof barriers. On the other hand, if your region regularly experiences extreme temperatures, don’t forget the foam insulation.
What Are the Benefits of Investing in Vinyl Siding?
Vinyl siding offers a winning combination of affordability, durability, and low maintenance, making it a smart investment for homeowners. With a wide range of styles, colors, and textures available, it’s easy to customize the exterior of your home and boost curb appeal. Plus, installation is quick, allowing you to transform your home’s look in less than a week.
One of vinyl’s biggest advantages is its longevity. While it’s the most budget-friendly siding option, vinyl can last up to 40 years with minimal upkeep. A simple pressure wash once a year keeps it looking fresh, and you’ll never have to repaint it like fiber cement siding.
Vinyl is also highly resistant to common problems that plague other siding materials. Unlike wood, it won’t rot, attract pests, or warp over time. It holds up well against harsh sunlight, so fading is rarely an issue. Compared to stucco, vinyl is less likely to crack or absorb moisture, and it’s more dent-resistant than aluminum siding. These qualities make vinyl a practical, low-maintenance choice that offers long-lasting protection for your home.
Professional Vs. DIY Vinyl Siding Cost
While vinyl siding installation seems straightforward, getting it right requires precision. You need to measure and cut the material accurately, align each piece perfectly, and secure it properly to prevent long-term issues. Small mistakes can lead to water damage, pest infestations, or poor energy efficiency—problems that cost far more to fix than hiring a professional from the start.
A professional installation typically adds $2 to $5 per square foot to the overall cost but provides peace of mind. Many siding companies back their work with warranties, protecting you from future installation problems.
Installing Vinyl Siding Yourself
Attempting a DIY siding installation may seem like a money-saving option, but it comes with challenges. Without a crew, you’ll spend a lot of time climbing ladders, measuring, cutting, and attaching panels—putting yourself at risk of injury and costly errors. Preparing the wall surface and properly installing the starter strip are critical steps that, if done incorrectly, can compromise the entire project.
Hiring a Professional for Vinyl Siding
Choosing a professional ensures a quicker and safer installation with fewer chances of errors. To get the best results, follow these steps:
Start by researching reputable siding and roofing experts in your area. Check online reviews, ask friends and family for recommendations, and explore resources like Today’s Homeowner for trusted contractor suggestions. Request quotes from at least three companies to compare prices, services, and material quality. Take time to review each company’s portfolio and, if possible, speak with previous clients to assess service quality.
When reviewing quotes, read the fine print carefully to understand potential extra costs, timelines, and payment terms. Once you’re satisfied, sign the contract and make the initial payment. Your project will be scheduled based on the contractor’s availability and your preferences.
So, Is Vinyl Siding Worth the Cost?
Vinyl siding is a smart investment if you’re looking for an affordable, low-maintenance option that enhances your home’s curb appeal. It’s durable, long-lasting, and requires little upkeep, making it a practical choice for homeowners who want to avoid constant exterior maintenance. With a lifespan of up to 40 years, vinyl siding offers great value over time.
If vinyl doesn’t fit your style or needs, other materials like wood, fiber cement, and metal are worth considering, but they typically come with higher upfront costs and maintenance demands. To make an informed decision, it’s best to get quotes from siding contractors and compare your options before committing to a project.
FAQs About Vinyl Siding
Yes, vinyl is typically the most cost-effective siding option. Basic styles like smooth and clapboard cost between $3.50 and $5.50 per square foot, making them budget-friendly. Premium designs like board and batten or log look can cost up to $11 per square foot, but they’re still more affordable than wood, fiber cement, or metal siding.
Absolutely! New vinyl siding can increase your home’s value by $12,500 to $15,000, offering a return on investment (ROI) of around 68%. It’s a smart upgrade if you’re considering selling your home in the near future.
The process begins by removing the old siding and inspecting the wall for damage. After that, the installer secures the sheathing, flashing, and any necessary insulation to prepare the surface. Next, they install the starter strip and corner pieces to ensure the panels sit evenly. The panels are then cut to size and locked into place one by one. The job is finished by adding J-trim and other finishing touches to ensure a polished look.
Vinyl siding is backed by various materials to protect the home’s exterior. Foam board insulation improves energy efficiency and creates a smooth surface. Water-resistant barriers prevent moisture intrusion and protect the underlying structure. Flashing directs water away from vulnerable areas like windows and doors. While it’s possible to install vinyl over old siding, this approach can trap moisture and lead to warping or mold over time. A clean, well-prepared surface is always the best approach.