How much does composite siding cost?
How much does composite siding cost?
$10 – $25 average cost per square foot with installation
$21,000 – $52,500 average total cost
Composite siding cost
Composite siding costs $10 to $25 per square foot installed, or $21,000 to $52,500 total for an average home. The total cost depends on the siding brand and style, as well as your home's size, design, location, and existing condition. Costs increase if the project involves any major repairs or structural modifications.
| Home size (square feet) | Approximate siding square footage |
Average cost installed |
|---|---|---|
| 1,000 | 800 | $8,000 – $20,000 |
| 1,500 | 1,200 | $12,000 – $30,000 |
| 2,000 | 1,700 | $17,000 – $42,500 |
| 2,500 | 2,100 | $21,000 – $52,500 |
| 3,000 | 2,500 | $25,000 – $62,500 |
| 3,500 | 2,900 | $29,000 – $72,500 |
Unlike traditional wood siding, composite siding requires minimal maintenance while offering excellent insulation properties and long-term durability. Most composite siding comes pre-finished with baked-on color that resists fading.
What affects the cost of composite siding?
While a home's size is one of the biggest cost drivers, several factors influence your final composite siding installation cost:
Brand and quality: Premium brands like Everlast composite siding cost more than average but offer enhanced durability and warranties.
Style and texture: Specialty finishes, deep wood grain patterns, and custom colors increase prices.
Home design complexity: Homes with multiple stories, intricate architectural details, or hard-to-reach areas require more labor, increasing costs.
Condition of the home: If your contractor discovers water damage or structural issues, you'll need to address those before installing new siding.
Removal and disposal: Removing old siding adds $1 to $4+ per square foot to your project.
Additional prep work: Repairing the sheathing, adding insulation, or updating the trim increases costs.
Geographic location: Labor rates and material costs vary significantly by region. Composite siding prices tend to be higher in major cities and areas with a higher cost of living.
Materials & installation
Material costs alone range from $4 to $12 per square foot. However, if you're contemplating DIY installation to save money, remember that composite siding installation requires specialized tools, experience with proper moisture barriers, and precise cutting techniques.
Most homeowners find professional installation worth the additional $6 to $13 per square foot in labor costs. Improper installation can void warranties and lead to moisture damage, making it a risky place to cut corners.
Some composite siding manufacturers may provide extended warranties when you use approved, brand-certified installers.
Additional costs
Siding installation projects often include extra costs beyond the basic installation. Depending on the condition of your home's exterior and your aesthetic preferences, your contractor may also recommend additional services. Consider these potential added costs:
Permits and inspections cost $100 to $500+ depending on the project size and scope.
House wrap costs $0.50 to $1.50 per square foot with installation.
Replacing the soffit and fascia costs $9 to $34 per linear foot.
Window and door trim cost $5 to $15 per linear foot installed.
Decorative components may add $10 to $50 per piece.
Composite siding vs. vinyl siding
Wondering how composite stacks up against vinyl? Vinyl siding costs $4 to $12 per square foot installed, making it the more budget-friendly option. However, composite siding offers better durability, a more authentic wood appearance, and often comes with longer warranties.
While you'll pay more initially, composite siding can be worth the investment if you're looking for a premium aesthetic and superior performance that lasts decades.
| Feature | Composite Siding | Vinyl Siding |
|---|---|---|
| Cost* | $10 – $25 per square foot | $4 – $12 per square foot |
| Lifespan | 30 – 50+ years | 30 – 40+ years |
| Appearance | Authentic wood texture and depth | Synthetic appearance; less dimensional |
| Maintenance | Minimal; occasional cleaning | Minimal; occasional cleaning |
| Durability | Highly resistant to impact, moisture, and pests | Can crack in cold weather; may dent |
| Warranty | 25 years to lifetime | 20 – 40 years (often prorated) |
| Energy efficiency | Better insulation properties | Good with insulated options |
| Color options | Factory finishes resist fading | Wide variety; may fade over time |
*Including materials and professional installation
Composite siding FAQs
What is composite siding?
Composite siding is an engineered exterior cladding made from a mixture of wood fibers, resins, and binding agents. This combination creates a durable, weather-resistant material that mimics the look of natural wood without the rot, warping, or pest problems.
Can you paint composite siding?
Yes, you can paint composite siding, though most products come with a factory finish designed to last for decades. If you want to change colors down the road, make sure to use high-quality exterior paint and follow the manufacturer's recommendations for surface preparation.
Some composite siding brands specifically manufacture paintable products, while others have finishes that don't require painting for 25 years or more.
Always check your warranty, as some manufacturers may void coverage if you paint over their factory finish.
How long does composite siding last?
Quality composite siding lasts 30 to 50 years with minimal maintenance. Many manufacturers back their products with warranties ranging from 25 years to lifetime coverage, depending on the brand and product line. The longevity of composite siding makes it a smart investment despite the higher upfront cost.
Getting estimates for composite siding
Choosing the right contractor is just as important as selecting quality materials. Follow these guidelines to find the best composite siding installer near you:
Get quotes from at least three licensed and insured siding contractors in your area.
Check out reviews of siding contractors on HomeGuide and Google.
Look for contractors with at least 3 to 5 years of specific composite experience.
Verify they are certified installers for your chosen brand.
Ask for references from recent similar siding projects in your area.
Make sure the estimate includes removal, disposal, materials, labor, trim work, and cleanup.
Don't pay in full until the installers are finished and cleanup is complete.
Questions to ask a siding contractor
Before signing any contracts, make sure you get clear answers to these important questions:
How long have you been installing composite siding?
Are you licensed and insured?
Can you provide references from recent composite siding projects?
What brands do you recommend and why?
What's included in your quote?
How will you handle unexpected issues?
What does your warranty cover?
What is your estimated timeline?
Using our proprietary cost database, in-depth research, and collaboration with industry experts, we deliver accurate, up-to-date pricing and insights you can trust, every time.