Vinyl siding installation is one of the most budget and DIY friendly siding installation materials.

This is one of the top reasons why so many homeowners across the US choose to install vinyl siding – the material is an ideal combination of reasonable cost and functional durability.

Not only does vinyl siding provide an attractive finish, but it also requires minimal maintenance compared to traditional materials.

Lets take a closer look at what’s involved in installing vinyl siding.

Average Cost Of Vinyl Siding

The average cost of installing vinyl siding ranges between $6,102 and $16,735.

If we’re talking about the average price per square foot, homeowners can expect to pay around $7.13 per square foot, with the low side being approximately $2.85 per square foot and the high side $11.41 per square foot. 

Keep in mind that these are average prices.

How much you’ll need to pay depends on many factors, like the type of vinyl siding you opt for, labor costs, repairs, replacements, etc.

For example, replacing around 200 square feet of vinyl siding costs roughly $1,520.

This price includes the material and labor costs.

If the siding requires repairs, you can expect to pay approximately $380-$760 per 200 square feet or $1.90-$3.80 per square foot. 

The type of siding you opt for is among the most significant factors determining the final costs.

If you opt for high-end insulated siding from a reputable brand, you’ll need to spend around $11.40 per square foot.

Those who decide to go with traditional lap and smooth vinyl siding options will spend approximately $2.85 per square foot.

As you can see, there’s a huge price difference between the two vinyl siding options. Choose the one that matches your style and budget. 

Labor is another factor affecting the final price of installing vinyl siding.

If you decide to hire a vinyl siding contractor for the installation, you should know they charge between $2.04 and $4.99 per square foot, averaging at $3.52.

So, if you have 1,200 square feet to cover, you’ll need approximately $4,224 just for labor costs. 

Coverage Area	Cost
Per Square Foot	$2.85-$11.41
Per 100 Square Feet	$285-$1,141
Per 1,200 Square Feet	$3,420-$13,692
Per 2,400 Square Feet	$6,840-$27,384

Did you know? Compared to other types of siding, vinyl siding is among the easiest and quickest to install. While putting up the panels isn’t challenging, this process requires prepping. If you don’t do the prep work right, you risk quicker deterioration and moisture issues. That’s why many homeowners decide to let a professional handle the installation. 

How Much Does It Cost To Install Vinyl Siding On A 1000-Square-Foot House?

Covering a 1000-square-foot house with vinyl siding costs approximately $7,000.

For the cheapest vinyl siding options, homeowners can expect to pay around $2,000, while a ranch-style home will require a higher investment of around $10,000.

How Much Does It Cost To Install Vinyl Siding On A 1,500-Square-Foot House?

The average cost of putting vinyl siding on a 1,500-square-foot house is around $10,500.

In the best-case scenario, homeowners will pay approximately $3,000 for the project.

However, covering a house with two or more stories might require up to $15,000.

DIY Vinyl Siding Install Step By Step

Lets first take a look at the materials you will need to complete the install successfully:

-Vinyl siding panels
-J-channel
-Corner posts
-F-channel
-Utility knife
-Circular saw
-Tape measure
-Level
-Galvanized nails or screws
-Power drill
-Zip tool (for unlocking panels)
-Ladder
-Underlayment (if required)

Step 1: Preparation and Planning

Start by measuring the exterior walls of your home to determine the amount of siding and accessories needed. Consider the architectural features, such as doors and windows, as these will affect the amount of siding material required.

Step 2: Remove Old Siding (if necessary)

If there’s existing siding on your home, remove it carefully. Check for any underlying issues like rot or damage to the sheathing, and address them before proceeding. Ensure that the surface is clean, smooth, and ready for the new vinyl siding.

Step 3: Install Underlayment (if necessary)

In some cases, especially in colder climates, it’s recommended to install an underlayment before attaching the vinyl siding. This helps with insulation and protects against moisture. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for underlayment installation.

Step 4: Install J-Channel

Start by installing J-channel around windows and doors. This channel provides a neat, finished appearance and supports the siding edges. Cut the J-channel to fit, ensuring that it slopes away from the structure to prevent water accumulation. Secure the J-channel using nails or screws, making sure it is level.

Step 5: Install Corner Posts

Place corner posts at all exterior corners of your home. These posts provide a stable foundation for the siding and create a polished look. Attach the corner posts securely using nails or screws, making sure they are plumb and level.

Step 6: Attach F-Channel

Install F-channel along the eaves of your home, ensuring it is level. The F-channel provides support for the lower edge of the siding panels. Secure the F-channel with nails or screws, placing them at regular intervals.

Step 7: Cut and Install Vinyl Siding Panels

Measure and cut vinyl siding panels to fit the length of each wall. Use a circular saw or a specialized siding cutter for precision. Start installing the panels from the bottom, interlocking them securely.

Make sure each panel is level and plumb before securing it to the wall with nails or screws through the predetermined nailing flanges.

Step 8: Overlap and Lock Panels

Ensure that each panel overlaps with the previous one to prevent water infiltration. Use a zip tool to unlock panels as needed for adjustments. Continue this process, working your way up the wall until you reach the top.

Step 9: Complete Windows and Doors

Trim the siding around windows and doors using the utility knife and J-channel for a clean finish. Install additional J-channel around these openings to support the siding edges.

Step 10: Finishing Touches

You can now finish the job by installing accessories such as soffit and fascia to protect the roof overhangs. Inspect the entire vinyl siding for any gaps or loose panels, securing them as needed.

Remember to consult the manufacturer’s guidelines for specific product instructions and warranty information.

Keep in mind that if you encounter any challenges during the install, you should seek professional assistance to ensure your siding is properly installed.

Do I Need To Hire A Professional Vinyl Siding Installer?

DIY-savvy homeowners can install vinyl siding without professional assistance. This way, they will save money by eliminating labor costs.

However, keep in mind that installing vinyl siding yourself will likely take more time and require special tools and thorough preparation.

Pro Tip: If you choose DIY installation, make sure to leave about a quarter of an inch of extra space on both ends. This way, vinyl can expand during summer, preventing the siding from buckling.

Those who lack the time or the skills to pull off this project should hire a professional siding installer. This way, they can have peace of mind knowing that all the crucial aspects will be covered. 

Improper installation can result in panels peeling or falling off, causing additional repair costs. For this reason, hiring a pro might be a better option regardless of the homeowner’s skill set.

Professional installers are individuals that are insured, licensed, and bonded, protecting the property and its owner from accidents and mishaps. 

Many contractors actually recommend the fall months for a siding installation to avoid weather-related issues. However, many homeowners still choose spring or summer to get siding done, probably because they have enough time to tackle such a project.

Hiring Affordable Vinyl Siding Installers

Before hiring a siding installer, it’s essential to research the installation prices to get a general idea of how much the vinyl siding installation should cost.

It’s also important to define your needs and preferences to ensure the contractor will meet them.

However, if you’re on a tight budget, finding an affordable siding installer should top your list of priorities.

Once you shortlist a few candidates, you can send them an inquiry containing the following questions:

• Can I purchase the siding material from another company?
• Do you offer any discounts?
• Do you offer free estimates?

Besides the price, you can ask questions about the installation process, the most important being how long the project will take to complete.

Installing Insulated vs Uninsulated Vinyl Siding

When buying vinyl siding, you can choose between insulated and uninsulated options.

Both options have certain advantages and disadvantages that can help you make the right choice based on your needs.

Uninsulated vinyl siding is the default option for siding in most cases.

Uninsulated siding might be more appealing for the following reasons:

• Uninsulated siding is significantly more affordable.
• It’s quicker to install uninsulated siding.
• Unlike its insulated counterpart, uninsulated siding panels can be cut using hand snips. 
• Uninsulated siding provides a quick return on investment.

Of course, insulated siding has been developed for a reason. This type of siding will:

• Reduce utility bills through energy savings 
• Come in darker and richer colors
• Come in wider and flatter profiles
• Eliminate the appearance of imperfect walls
• Protect the walls from impact damage
• Protect the home from pests

Vinyl Siding Installation Cost Compared To Other Siding Materials

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Vinyl siding is less expensive than most popular siding materials, ranging from $2 to $10 per square foot.

Let’s look at how other siding materials compare.

Engineered Wood Siding

Engineered wood siding imitates the appearance of natural wood for a fraction of the cost.

The engineered wood is created by bonding sawdust and wood chips together. It’s easy to install and maintain engineered wood since it’s free of the many issues that plague real wood.

Due to a spike in popularity, numerous engineered wood options are on the market, and their exact price will depend on the brand you choose.

On average, installing engineered wood siding costs between $4 and $10 per square foot.

Metal Siding

Metal siding is a metal panel system covering the house’s exterior. It can be made from various metal types, which explains the significant price differences.

For instance, tin and aluminum metal siding can be less expensive than vinyl, with excellent options available in the $1-$3 range.

However, more expensive options, like zinc and copper, can cost up to $35 per square foot.

Fiber Cement Siding

Fiber cement siding offers a combination of durability and style.

It’s made using a mixture of cement, sand, and wood fibers and requires low maintenance.

Although fiber cement isn’t particularly affordable, it can mimic the look and texture of even more expensive sidings.

Installing fiber cement siding costs between $5 and $13 per square foot.

Stone Veneer Siding

Stone veneer is a budget-friendly alternative to natural stone or brick.

Brick veneer can be produced in granite, river rock, and limestone varieties and installed relatively cheaply.

The total cost of installing brick veneer ranges between $5.50 and $8.50 per square foot.

Natural Wood Siding

Natural wood is a popular choice among homeowners who consider wood to be the gold standard in construction.

Wood siding offers a timeless and elegant look.

The wood siding is available in numerous colors and finishes that dictate the material’s price.

Depending on the chosen type, installing natural wood siding can range from $5 to $30 per square foot.

Stucco

Stucco siding is an attractive option for homeowners looking for a contemporary look at an attractive price.

Stucco is usually made using cement, sand, epoxy, and water.

Interestingly, stucco siding has a similar cost range as vinyl – from $3 to $11 per square foot.

Is It Worth It To Install Vinyl Siding?

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Investing in vinyl siding for your home is not just a cosmetic upgrade; it’s a practical and cost-effective choice with numerous benefits. One of the primary advantages is durability. Vinyl siding is known for its resistance to harsh weather conditions, such as rain, snow, and UV rays, making it a long-lasting solution that requires minimal maintenance.

Another compelling reason to opt for vinyl siding is its versatility in design. With a wide range of colors and textures available, you can achieve the desired aesthetic for your house, boosting curb appeal and potentially increasing the value of your home.

Additionally, vinyl siding is a budget-friendly option both in terms of initial installation costs and long-term savings. Its low maintenance requirements eliminate the need for frequent painting or repairs, saving you time and money over the years.