Find the best deals on vinyl siding by gathering multiple estimates. Prices for siding vary widely based on style, insulation and materials. Thicker siding is better because it hides imperfections and adds additional protection.
You can save money by shopping around for vinyl siding styles and gathering estimates from various contractors. The trick is in asking the right questions and sticking to your budget. Vinyl siding is available in varying thicknesses and grades, from the narrowest residential grade (.044) up to super-thick residential grade (.050). By selecting the thickness, insulation factor, style and color that is right for your home, you can seek bids from and select among competing siding contractors.
Some other tips to keep your estimate down include asking the contractors about government incentives, manufacturer rebates, and other tips to reduce the cost.
Styles for vinyl siding are available in an array of options:
- Beaded textural siding
- Board and batten (rustic)
- Dutch lap
- Imitation material siding (made to look like brick, cedar slats, or hand-split tiles)
- Smooth Vinyl Siding
- Cedar Siding
- Insulated Siding Styles
- Staggered Shingle Siding
- Half Round Siding
- Log Siding
- Shingle Siding
Vinyl siding prices start with basic, thin products and go up when you add thickness, styles and insulation. Costs can range from $1 per-square-foot for basic panels that you install yourself to $7 or more if installed by a professional.
Getting estimates and bids for vinyl siding
You will need to calculate your exterior square footage before calling around for estimates. Make sure that the cost for trim, soffits, corner boards, and crown moldings are included in your request for estimates.
Some manufacturers will require certified or trained contractors to handle the insulation and installation in order to meet the terms of your warranty.
Siding contractors, Robert Bury and Britt Jud in Washington State provided these ballpark estimates on their blog, based on a 2,000-square-foot home:
- Economy vinyl siding without soffits: low cost $7,000; industry average cost $10,000; top range, $15,001+
- High quality vinyl siding without soffits: low cost $7,999; industry average cost $11,000; top range, $16,001+
You should seek at least three bids before choosing your siding contractor. You should never ever pay for an estimate or pay the full amount upfront for the job. Be sure any company you engage is bonded, licensed and carries insurance for its employees.
