Homeowners typically pay for siding based on material cost, installation complexity, and regional labor rates. The main cost question is the price difference between Hardiplank and vinyl siding, including long term maintenance and durability. This guide outlines the cost estimates, per unit pricing, and key drivers to help buyers form an informed budget.
Assumptions: region, siding profile, wall area, and crew rates vary by project.
| Item | Low | Average | High | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Siding Materials (installed) | $3.50/sq ft | $6.50/sq ft | $9.50/sq ft | Hardiplank ranges higher per sq ft; vinyl lower but varies by profile |
| Labor & Installation | $2.50-$5.00/sq ft | $4.50/sq ft | $8.00/sq ft | Includes removal of old siding; Faster for vinyl |
Overview Of Costs
Cost ranges show total project estimates with per unit references, capturing material, labor, and typical extras. For a standard 2,000 sq ft home, vinyl siding installed often lands in the $10,000-$15,000 range, while Hardiplank usually lands higher, around $15,000-$28,000 depending on thickness and profile. These figures assume mid grade materials, standard clapboard or shake profiles, and typical removal and disposal of old siding.
Cost Breakdown
Understanding where money goes helps buyers compare value. The table below combines total ranges with per unit costs to illustrate a full project. The breakdown uses four to six columns from common cost pools to show where price differences emerge.
| Category | Hardiplank Low | Hardiplank High | Vinyl Low | Vinyl High | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Materials | $5.50/sq ft | $9.50/sq ft | $2.50/sq ft | $4.50/sq ft | Hardiplank is cementitious; vinyl is plastic based |
| Labor | $2.50-$5.00/sq ft | $4.50-$8.00/sq ft | $2.00-$4.00/sq ft | $3.50-$6.50/sq ft | Removal and flashing vary by existing substrate |
| Permits & Inspections | $300-$1,200 | $300-$1,200 | $200-$900 | $ | |
| Delivery/Disposal | $200-$600 | $200-$600 | $100-$400 | Waste handling may differ with cementitious materials | |
| Warranty | $0-$400 | $400-$900 | $0-$300 | Material and labor warranty durations vary | |
| Accessories & Trim | $300-$1,200 | $600-$2,000 | $150-$700 | Soffits, J channels, corner posts | |
| Taxes & Overhead | $400-$1,000 | $800-$1,800 | $350-$900 | Includes business overhead and tax impacts |
What Drives Price
Material composition and installation complexity are primary drivers. Hardiplank uses cementitious fibers that require special tools and moisture management, increasing labor time. Vinyl siding is lighter and quicker to install, but higher-end profiles or thicker vinyl can add costs. A longer run length or unusual geometry raises both material waste and labor hours. Climate and substrate also influence fastening, flashing, and warranty commitments.
Ways To Save
Smart planning and careful product selection can trim costs without sacrificing durability. Options include choosing a basic profile, reducing trim complexity, and bundling window/door work with the siding project. Ordering materials in bulk and scheduling during mild weather can cut labor hours. Consider vinyl over vinyl with thicker gauge as a middle ground, or select a factory-finished Hardiplank that reduces on-site staining needs.
Regional Price Differences
Prices vary by location due to labor markets and material shipping. In the Northeast urban area, total installed costs for Hardiplank may run 5–15% higher than national averages due to labor and permitting. The Midwest suburban market often sees vinyl siding closer to the average range, with Hardiplank toward the high end due to specialized crews. Rural areas tend to push costs down for labor but may incur higher delivery or disposal fees.
Labor & Installation Time
Installation duration affects total project cost. Vinyl siding typically takes 2–4 days for a standard 2,000 sq ft home, depending on weather and crew size. Hardiplank installations usually require 3–6 days due to cementitious material handling and flashing requirements. Labor rates in coastal states may be higher, reflecting skilled labor demand.
Real-World Pricing Examples
Three scenario snapshots illustrate typical quotes across materials. Each example assumes a 2,000 sq ft house with standard walls and a simple gable roof. All prices include removal of old siding and basic trim work, with local labor rates applied.
- Basic Vinyl Scenario — 2,000 sq ft, vinyl clapboard, standard 6-inch exposure, standard trims. Labor 2.0 hours per 100 sq ft; materials $2.50/sq ft; total $9,000-$12,000.
- Mid-Range Hardiplank Scenario — 2,000 sq ft, fiber cement plank, 6.5-inch exposure, basic trim. Labor 3.0 hours per 100 sq ft; materials $7.50/sq ft; total $16,000-$22,000.
- Premium Vinyl with Enhanced Details — 2,000 sq ft, higher gauge vinyl, premium trim, longer runs. Labor 2.5 hours per 100 sq ft; materials $4.50/sq ft; total $13,000-$18,000.
Assumptions: region, wall height, window count, and access constraints vary; premium materials or difficult substrate raise costs.