New siding may not be the most exciting home renovation project on your radar, but it’s one of those things you just have to do when the time comes. Siding is a vital component of the home’s construction, and aside from the roof, it’s your home’s first defense against the elements.
There are also cases where siding is refreshed because of the new colors, materials, and values available on the market today. Getting a house ready to sell might involve new siding, for example. There are high-tech options out there today that can have a serious effect on a home’s curb appeal and market value, if done right.
But how much does new siding cost? If you’re on a reasonably tight budget, is it even reasonable to expect that you can afford decent siding? What kinds of materials are available, and what are the pros and cons of each? These are some of the questions you’ll ask if you’re serious about doing quality research, and finding the best possible solution at a price point you can afford.
The answers to these questions require some digging, as there is a lot of information to discover and process. However, as a ballpark estimate, let’s say the average vinyl siding ends up costing between $3 and $8 per square foot. Let’s say that the average homeowner in middle class America will pay between $5K and $14K to completely remove and replace the siding on their home.
Now add in the fact that there are different materials you can use for siding. Vinyl. wood, stucco, brink, fiber-cement – these are all types of siding that are readily available to you! There is even the option of stone siding, which in some cases is among the most expensive siding anywhere in the world. The cost of siding will ultimately depend on the material you choose.
But not only that – it will depend on the contractor you hire. Some contractors may come at you with bids that are quite a bit lower than the others. Sure, there situations in which the other contractors you’ve made contact with are simply bidding high. Often times, however, extremely low bidders are not actually capable of turning out a result that meets high professional standards.
If you’re looking for a siding specialist, where do you turn? With so many options out there today, homeowners are wise to think carefully about who they hire. After all, this is an investment of hard earned cash, and you’re looking for a partner who will put that investment to good professional use. It’s always worth doing your homework on the various contractors that may or may not be available in your area, and narrow it down to the most reputable ones before you start making contact and asking questions. There are many different opinions and perspectives on various siding projects, but true professionals will be able to talk with you easily and openly about your goals, your budget, and how they can help you.