How much does Masonite siding cost?
How much does Masonite siding cost?
$4 – $8 cost per square foot installed
$10,000 – $20,000 average total cost (2,500 SF house)
Masonite siding cost by house size
Masonite hardboard lap siding costs $4 to $8 per square foot installed or $10,000 to $20,000 for a 2,500-square-foot house. Masonite material prices are $2 to $5 per square foot, depending on the quality, finish, and size of the home's exterior. Labor prices are $2 to $3 per square foot.
| Home size (square feet) | Average cost installed |
|---|---|
| 900 | $3,600 – $7,200 |
| 1,000 | $4,000 – $8,000 |
| 1,200 | $4,800 – $9,600 |
| 1,500 | $6,000 – $12,000 |
| 1,800 | $7,200 – $14,400 |
| 2,000 | $8,000 – $16,000 |
| 2,500 | $10,000 – $20,000 |
| 3,000 | $12,000 – $24,000 |
| 3,500 | $14,000 – $28,000 |
Masonite is a siding material made with wood fibers, resin, wax, and binders. Although the Masonite Corporation does not manufacture siding anymore, other companies manufacture this hardboard material and still refer to it as Masonite siding.
Average cost of Masonite siding
The following table shows the average cost to replace Masonite siding on a house.
| National Average Cost | $12,600 |
| Minimum Cost | $2,900 |
| Maximum Cost | $23,200 |
| Average Range | $8,400 to $16,800 |
Cost data is from research and project costs reported by HomeGuide members.
Masonite siding cost factors
Hardboard siding materials make up about 50% to 60% of the total cost, while labor fees make up the other 40% to 50%.
| Factor | Average cost (per square foot) |
|---|---|
| Materials & supplies | $2 – $5 |
| Labor | $2 – $3 |
| Total cost | $4 – $8 |
The following factors affect the total cost:
Home size & design – Large homes require more materials and labor. Siding installation for multi-story homes with complex designs costs more than for small, simple homes.
Finish – Adding paint, stain, or texture to Masonite siding may increase the final cost. Some hardboard siding is already textured to look like wood boards.
Lap siding size – Most Masonite siding boards are 8", 9", or 12" thick. Other sizes are harder to find and may cost more.
Old siding removal – Removing old siding costs $0.70 to $2.00 per square foot. Make sure your estimate also includes disposal.
Insulation – Insulation costs $1.00 to $4.50 per square foot installed, depending on the type and R-value.
Siding repairs – Siding repair costs $2 to $14 per square foot or $200 to $1,100 on average and may be best if only a small area is damaged. However, matching your siding's color may not be possible if the existing siding is old or faded.
Labor cost to install Masonite siding
The labor cost to install Masonite siding is $2 to $3 per square foot on average. Complex architectural features and sharp angles may increase labor charges because it will take longer to measure, cut, and fit the boards.
Masonite siding pros and cons
Masonite siding is affordable and durable but is much more prone to damage from moisture than other materials like vinyl or metal. This siding needs regular maintenance to prevent mold, rotting, warping, and water damage.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
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To prevent damage, inspect Masonite siding regularly and make sure all cracks and joints are thoroughly sealed with a heavy-duty caulk.
Masonite siding vs. other materials
Siding replacement costs $4 to $13 per square foot on average, depending on the material. Masonite costs less than most other siding types, although other materials like vinyl and metal are more durable and don't require as much maintenance.
| Material | Cost per square foot installed | Average total cost (2,500 SF) |
|---|---|---|
| Masonite | $4 – $8 | $10,000 – $20,000 |
| Vinyl siding cost | $4 – $12 | $10,000 – $30,000 |
| Aluminum siding cost | $6 – $10 | $15,000 – $25,000 |
| Brick siding cost | $8 – $18 | $20,000 – $45,000 |
| Cedar siding cost | $6 – $16 | $15,000 – $40,000 |
| Wood siding cost | $5 – $15 | $12,500 – $37,500 |
| Fiber cement siding cost | $6 – $15 | $15,000 – $37,500 |
| Log siding cost | $5 – $15 | $12,500 – $37,500 |
| Metal /steel siding cost | $6 – $16 | $15,000 – $40,000 |
| Stone siding cost | $10 – $45 | $10,000 – $25,000* |
| Stucco cost | $7 – $17 | $17,500 – $42,500 |
*For partial stone siding to accent the home's architectural features.
Masonite siding FAQs
What is Masonite siding?
Masonite siding is a composite engineered wood hardboard made of wood chips, resin, glue, and wax. Contrary to popular belief, hardboard siding does not contain asbestos. The term Masonite comes from a brand that popularized this hardboard style but no longer makes siding.
Is Masonite siding still available?
The Masonite Corporation stopped manufacturing siding after a series of lawsuits, which claimed the siding was defective but wasn't covered under the warranty. However, the Masonite hardboard style is still available from other companies.
How long does Masonite siding last?
Masonite siding lasts 20 to 40 years on average, depending on how well it's maintained. Inspect your siding regularly for water damage and immediately caulk any cracks or gaps to prevent damage. Consider replacing your siding if you see cracks, holes, warping, or significant fading.
What is the best paint for Masonite siding?
The best paint for Masonite siding is a water-based or latex exterior paint. Before painting Masonite siding, make sure it is clean, sanded, primed, and free of damage.
Can you install vinyl siding over Masonite siding?
While it's safer to remove old siding before replacing it, you can install vinyl siding over Masonite siding as long as you take the proper precautions. Make sure to repair any structural damage and cover the existing siding with a moisture barrier and insulation.
Can you pressure wash Masonite siding?
You should not pressure wash Masonite siding because it can damage the hardboard. Instead, opt for a low-pressure rinse using a hose and wipe away any dirt or dust on the surface.
Getting estimates from Masonite siding contractors
Before hiring a local siding contractor, be sure to:
Get at least three in-person estimates with a similar siding quality to compare.
Choose a reputable company that's licensed, bonded, and insured.
Read siding company reviews on HomeGuide and Google.
Review pictures of past projects.
Ask for references with contact information.
Confirm the estimate includes old siding removal and disposal.
Never pay in full before siding work begins. Follow a payment schedule for work completed and get receipts.
Questions to ask
Ask these important questions when hiring a siding installation company:
How long have you been in business?
How many similar siding replacement jobs have you done recently?
Can I see pictures of your past work?
Can you give me references with contact information?
Which hardboard siding type do you recommend for my home, and why?
Does the estimate include removal and disposal of the old siding? If not, how much more will that cost?
What other costs might come up during the project?
How long will this project take?
How long will this siding last?
What does the warranty cover?