Construction & ContractorsWall Envelope Tool
Siding Cost Calculator
Calculate exterior siding square footage, door/window deductions, siding squares, trim, soffits, and installation labor.
Calculation Results
Exterior Siding Formula
Siding Squares = ((Perimeter ft × Wall Height ft - Window Deductions) × (1 + Waste %)) / 100- Siding Square: 100 square feet of wall surface area.
- Deductions: Subtract 10%–15% for doors, windows, and garage openings.
- Trim & Accessories: Starter strips, outside corner posts, J-channels, and soffit/fascia wrap.
Step-by-Step Worked Example
Scenario: Installing fiber cement Hardie siding on a home with 160 ft perimeter, 18 ft two-story height
Calculation Steps:
- Gross Wall Area = 160 × 18 = 2,880 sq ft
- Net Wall Area = 2,880 - 300 = 2,580 sq ft
- Area with 10% Waste = 2,580 × 1.10 = 2,838 sq ft (28.4 squares)
- Materials Cost (28.4 sq × $390) = $11,076
- Labor Cost (28.4 sq × $520) = $14,768
- Trim & Soffit Wrap = 2,580 sq ft × $1.85 = $4,773
- Total Installed Siding Cost = $11,076 + $14,768 + $4,773 = $30,617
Result: Estimated installed cost is $30,617 ($11.87 per net square foot including trim and corner accessories).
How to Use This Calculator
- 1Enter the building exterior perimeter and wall height in feet.
- 2Deduct window and door openings to avoid over-ordering siding squares.
- 3Choose your siding material to compare vinyl against fiber cement and wood.
Assumptions & Limitations
- Estimates are based on standard national averages and current prevailing construction materials and contractor rates.
- Actual trade bids may fluctuate according to local building code requirements, permit fees, and site topography.
- Always obtain multiple written bids from licensed, bonded, and insured contractors before commencing work.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which siding material lasts the longest?
Fiber cement (James Hardie) and engineered wood typically last 40 to 50+ years with minimal maintenance and are non-combustible. Vinyl lasts 25 to 40 years at a lower upfront cost.
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