Siding Material and Cost Calculator
Accurate siding estimates prevent costly delays and ensure proper material ordering. This calculator determines squares of siding, trim, and accessories based on your home’s exterior dimensions and material choice.
Exterior Dimensions
linear ft
openings
sq ft
Siding Needed
Costs include materials only, not labor. Professional installation typically adds $2–8/sq ft depending on material and complexity. Old siding removal adds $1–3/sq ft.
Siding Cost by Material
| Material | Material Cost/sq ft | Installed Cost/sq ft | Lifespan |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vinyl | $2–5 | $4–9 | 20–40 years |
| Fiber Cement | $3–8 | $7–15 | 30–50 years |
| Wood (cedar) | $5–10 | $8–16 | 15–30 years |
| Aluminum | $3–7 | $5–12 | 30–50 years |
| Stone Veneer | $8–20 | $15–35 | 50+ years |
| Stucco (EIFS) | $4–9 | $7–14 | 20–50 years |
Frequently Asked Questions
How many squares of siding for a 1,500 sq ft house?
A 1,500 sq ft single-story home typically has 1,200–1,500 sq ft of exterior wall area (perimeter × height minus openings), or 12–15 squares. With 10% waste, order 14–17 squares.
What is a “square” of siding?
One square = 100 sq ft of coverage area. Siding is ordered in squares, similar to roofing.
References & Methodology
- Vinyl Siding Institute (VSI), "Installation Manual," vinylsiding.org. — Standard siding installation practices, waste factor guidelines (10–15%), and material estimation methodology.
- International Residential Code (IRC), Section R703, "Exterior Covering," 2021. — Weather-resistant barrier requirements, flashing standards, and minimum overlap specifications for exterior cladding.
- James Hardie Industries, "Fiber Cement Siding Installation Guide," jameshardie.com. — Fiber cement board coverage calculations and best practices widely referenced in the siding industry.