When you have decided to replace the old wooden siding on your home, you must consider the costs of the project. While you can opt for the traditional wood siding, there are also some alternatives that you can try out. For instance, you can try installing vinyl siding instead. This method is not only inexpensive but it also looks good on your home.
Alternatives to wood siding
If you want to update the siding on your old house without affecting its historic character, you should consider using fiber cement siding instead of wood. This material looks like wood but doesn’t require as much upkeep. Additionally, fiber cement siding can be painted any color. Depending on the thickness of the siding, it can last anywhere from 50 to 80 years. Another option is stucco, which is an extremely durable material. It is often applied over masonry, concrete, or wood that has been treated with a metal netting.
However, wood siding can be very expensive and requires constant maintenance, including painting, termite protection, and other repairs. Additionally, wood can be expensive to buy and install, and not all wood species are suitable for every climate. In addition, the type of wood you use will determine its rot resistance, checkability, and cupping characteristics.
Another option for homeowners who want to replace old wood siding is to install engineered wood siding. This material is made from wood and other materials, and is cheaper and easier to install than natural wood. Depending on the manufacturer, engineered wood siding is also available in longer lengths, and in some areas, it can be prepainted. In addition to natural wood siding, there are also many different types of engineered wood siding. For example, you can buy a panel that mimics the look of traditional clapboards, while another type of engineered wood siding mimics the grain and texture of natural wood.
Another alternative to wood siding is fiber cement siding, which is made of wood fibers and cement. This type of siding is nonflammable and resistant to ultraviolet rays and wood-boring insects. It also offers a full range of color and texture options. This type of siding is a more recent option, but it has become very popular in recent years.
Cost Of Installing Vinyl Siding
There are a few factors that can affect the cost of installing new siding on an old house. First, you’ll need to determine how much square footage you need to cover. The average cost to install vinyl siding is about $4 per square foot. The cost can go up if you want to add trim work, moldings, or soffits. You can also expect labor costs to be about $3 to $6 per linear foot. In addition, the style of your home can affect the cost. Victorian-style homes can cost more than cape-style homes. If you’re not sure, ask for a free estimate before hiring contractors.
Once you’ve determined how much vinyl siding will cost, you’ll need to determine the overall cost of the project. Old houses are likely to need exterior repairs first before siding can be installed. These repairs will add to the cost of the project because the contractors will need to correct any problems with the exterior. However, if your house is in good condition, there’s less prep work needed to install vinyl siding.
The cost of siding will also vary based on the size of the home. In general, larger houses require more siding than smaller ones. In addition, multi-story homes will require more time and extra labor. You can also expect to pay more if you need to add insulation. Adding insulation will cost you an additional $0.07 to $0.25 per square foot. If you want to prevent drafts, you may want to invest in housewrap, which is a flexible moisture and wind barrier.
