Discussion

Why is Replacing Siding so Expensive?

We're looking to replace the siding on a square, two-story house that's about 25 years old. The current siding has been poorly maintained. We've received bids that vary widely, and even the lowest one still feels expensive. The project involves installing Hardie board siding, covering approximately 2,500 square feet of surface area. What should this project actually cost?

We re-sided approximately 1,600 sq. ft. (surface area) with Hardie and paint about a month ago, and the quoted cost was $27K. They haven't finished painting yet, so I don't have the final cost, but it should be around that amount. Re-siding is expensive due to the labor and raw materials involved. If your siding is rotten, as indicated by fungus growth, you should prepare for more problems once the siding is removed. Unfortunately, this could be really expensive, even if raw material costs weren’t up 300%-400%. You’re doing the right thing by getting multiple quotes, but it still sounds like a big job.