Investing In Fiber Cement Siding
Have you ever wondered why fiber cement siding is gaining such popularity among homeowners? Or perhaps you’ve been contemplating a home improvement project and are curious about the costs involved with installing fiber cement siding?
This blog post covers fiber cement siding costs, cost factors, and more for Huntsville, Alabama.
By the end of this post, you’ll understand fiber cement siding costs and what influences them.
Fiber Cement Siding Cost In Huntsville, AL
Fiber cement siding costs in Huntsville, AL, start at $1,000 per 10×10 square of exterior surface, including installation. On average, homeowners can anticipate investing between $20,000 and $40,000 to re-side their homes, with the average cost per square foot averaging $10 to $15.
However, your fiber cement siding cost can fluctuate depending on the size of your home, who does the project, and the labor costs in your area.
Our pricing is done in terms of 10×10 sections we call squares. For example, 1,000 square feet in terms of siding would be 10 squares. At a price range of $1,000 to $1,500 (including installation) for 2,000 square feet (20 SQ), we are looking at a siding price range of $20,000 to $30,000.
– Jordan Rodriguez, Owner of Freedom Exteriors
Cost Of Fiber Cement Siding By Type In Huntsville, AL
Fiber cement siding comes in various types, each with its own cost implications. Let’s delve into the specifics of each type:
Planks
The cost for planks ranges between $10 and $20 per square foot, or $1,000 to $2,000 per 10×10 square, including installation.
Planks, also known as lap siding or clapboard siding, mimic the look of traditional wood siding. They are relatively easy to install due to their narrow size, but it can take longer to add each piece individually.
The cost can vary based on the quality of the planks, the brand, and the complexity of the installation.
Panels
The cost for panels ranges between $12 and $18 per square foot, or $1,200 to $1,800 per 10×10 square, including installation.
Panels are thicker than planks and can resemble wood paneling, stone veneer, or brick. They are typically more expensive due to their size and the increased labor required for installation.
The cost can change due to the size of the panels, the material they mimic, and the complexity of the installation.
Shingles
Shingle cost ranges are between $18 and $25 per square foot, or $1,800 to $2,500 per 10×10 square, including installation.
Shingles offer a classic look and often imitate cedar shakes or shingles with a quaint, rounded edge. The cost can fluctuate based sue to shingle quality, brand, and the complexity of the installation.
James Hardie Fiber Cement Siding
James Hardie Siding is a renowned brand in the fiber cement siding industry, known for its durability and aesthetic appeal.
This type of siding is made from a blend of cement, sand, and cellulose fibers, offering a high degree of resistance to weather conditions and pests. While the cost of James Hardie siding may be more expensive upfront compared to other siding options, its longevity and low maintenance requirements can make it a cost-effective choice in the long run.
The exact cost can vary depending on the style and color you choose, as well as the size of your home. Despite the initial investment, many homeowners find the benefits of James Hardie siding to be well worth the cost.
The Main Cost Factors For Huntsville
Local Construction Regulations
Each area has its own construction standards, rules, and permits, and this includes Huntsville as well.
Complying with these standards during the installation of fiber cement board siding might necessitate extra materials or work, potentially impacting the total expense of the project.
Labor Market Conditions
The labor cost for installing siding can fluctuate depending on the conditions of the local labor market.
The thriving construction sector in Huntsville leads to a competitive environment for proficient workers, which could affect the labor expense aspect of your siding project.
Fiber Cement Siding Cost Factors
Several factors can influence the installation costs of your fiber cement siding project. Let’s delve into each of these factors:
Type
The type of siding you choose can significantly impact the cost.
For instance, customized decorative shapes or panels may cost more than standard planks or shingles. This is due to the additional labor and materials required to create these custom shapes.
Home Size
The size of your home will determine the amount of siding needed, affecting both material and labor costs.
Larger homes will require more siding, which can raise the total cost of your project.
Home Design
The shape of your home can also influence the cost. Homes with complex designs or hard-to-reach areas may require more labor and specialized installation techniques, leading to higher costs.
Labor
The labor cost for installing fiber cement siding can vary based on the complexity of the job and local labor rates.
Who You Hire To Install Fiber Cement Siding
The contractor you hire can significantly impact the cost of your project.
DIY installation can save on labor costs but may result in higher material costs and potential mistakes.
Hiring a cheap contractor may save money upfront but could lead to poor installation and future repair costs.
Hiring a high-end contractor will likely result in higher upfront costs but can ensure a high-quality installation that lasts for years.
Some crucial factors to consider when selecting a contractor include:
- License and insurance
- Experience with installing fiber cement siding
- Positive client reviews and ratings
- Transparent pricing
Style
The style of fiber cement siding you choose can also affect the cost.
Siding that mimics the look of stone veneer may be more expensive than siding that resembles wood. This is due to the additional labor and materials required to create these unique styles.
Additionally, the color and finish of the siding can also influence the cost. Pre-painted or factory-finished siding can be more expensive upfront, but it can save you the time and cost of painting the siding after installation.
Panel thickness also impacts cost. Thicker panels often provide better insulation and durability but can come at a higher cost.
Old Siding Removal
Before installing new fiber cement siding, the old siding must be removed.
This can add to the overall cost of the project. The cost of siding removal can shift depending on the type of siding being removed and the amount of siding that needs to be discarded.
“We are going to remove the siding on every re-side. Some contractors will install siding over siding; we never recommend that. We always remove existing siding and dispose of it, we always install new house wrap, and sometimes we even replace the base layer of OSB/foam board if needed. That all goes into the cost as well.”
– Jordan Rodriguez, Owner of Freedom Exteriors
Potential Repairs
During the removal of the old siding, potential damage to the underlying structure of your home may be discovered.
This can include issues such as mold, dry rot, or water damage. These problems will need to be fixed before the new siding project can start, which can add to the overall project cost.
Comparing Fiber Cement Siding With Other Siding Types
When considering fiber cement siding, it’s helpful to compare its costs with other popular siding types. Here’s a table comparing siding material costs including installation:
| Siding Type | Average Cost per 10×10 Square |
|---|---|
| Fiber Cement | $1,000 – $1,500 |
| Vinyl | $700 – $1,200 |
| Wood | $1,000 – $1,500 |
Fiber Cement Siding Maintenance Tips
While fiber cement siding is known for its durability, it does require occasional maintenance. Here are some maintenance tips to help your siding last:
- Continually inspect your siding for any signs of damage, such as cracks or dents.
- Touch-up paint as needed to maintain the appearance and protective qualities of the siding.
- Address any underlying water damage promptly to prevent further issues.
- Clean your siding periodically to remove dirt and debris. This can be done with a power washer.
- Consider professional pressure washing every few years to deep clean your siding.
- Check for any signs of pests or insects, as they can cause damage over time.
- Ensure proper ventilation to prevent moisture buildup, which can lead to mold and mildew.
Remember, regular maintenance can help ensure your siding lasts as long as possible and continues to enhance your home’s curb appeal.
The Popularity And Benefits Of Fiber Cement Siding
Fiber cement siding is a versatile exterior siding option that offers superior durability and weather-proof qualities.
This type of siding can protect homes in nearly any climate from the elements, making it one of the most weather-proof types of siding in today’s market.
Not only does it boost your home’s curb appeal, but it also offers a strong return on investment, with homeowners potentially recouping as much as 86% of the costs spent on a fiber cement siding installation in home resale value.
Here is the Cost vs. Value report for fiber cement siding installation in Huntsville.
Invest In A High-Quality Siding Installation With Freedom Exteriors
Fiber cement siding is a durable, versatile, and cost-effective choice for homeowners. Not only does it enhance your home’s aesthetic attraction, but it also grants a strong return on investment. If you’re considering a home improvement project, fiber cement siding is definitely worth considering.
At Freedom Exteriors, we specialize in installing fiber cement siding such as James Hardie Plank siding, a top-quality fiber cement siding product. Our team of siding replacement professionals is committed to providing exceptional service and craftsmanship.
If you’re ready to transform your home’s exterior, fill out our contact form today or give us a call. We look forward to giving you the professional installation your home deserves!