Homeowners typically pay a wide range for exterior siding, driven by material type, labor, and finishes. The main cost question for this comparison is the upfront price, plus how long each option lasts and what maintenance may be needed.
| Item | Low | Average | High | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Siding Installation (Board & Batten) | $2.50/sq ft | $6.50/sq ft | $12.00+/sq ft | Includes labor for fiber cement or vinyl options. |
| Board & Batten (Material) | $1.00–$5.00/sq ft | $2.50–$4.50/sq ft | $6.00+/sq ft | Fiber cement or wood variants vary widely. |
| Brick Veneer (Installed) | $7.00/sq ft | $12.00/sq ft | $18.00+/sq ft | Labor-intensive, adds weight. |
| Brick Exterior (Full Brick) | $15.00/sq ft | $28.00/sq ft | $40.00+/sq ft | Heaviest option; may require structural updates. |
| Delivery/Removal/Disposal | $0.50–$2.00/sq ft | $1.00–$3.50/sq ft | $4.00+/sq ft | Site dependencies apply. |
Overview Of Costs
Initial costs vary significantly by material and finish. Board and batten siding generally costs less upfront but may require more maintenance over time, while brick options tend to be pricier upfront but offer long-term durability. The average total project ranges reflect typical homes (1,500–2,500 sq ft) with standard rims and windows. Per-square-foot ranges assume comparable wall areas and no major structural work.
Cost Breakdown
Here is a simplified breakdown of major cost components for both options.
| Component | Board & Batten (Fiber Cement or Vinyl) | Brick Veneer | Brick Exterior | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Materials | $2.50–$5.00/sq ft | $7.00–$12.00/sq ft | $15.00–$28.00/sq ft | Material type drives price. |
| Labor | $2.00–$5.50/sq ft | $4.00–$9.00/sq ft | $6.00–$12.00/sq ft | Labor intensity scales with complexity. |
| Equipment | $0.50–$1.50/sq ft | $1.00–$3.00/sq ft | $1.50–$3.50/sq ft | Scaffolding, lifts, cutters, etc. |
| Permits/Inspections | $0.50–$2.00/sq ft | $0.50–$2.50/sq ft | $0.50–$2.50/sq ft | Local requirements vary. |
| Delivery/Disposal | $0.10–$0.50/sq ft | $0.50–$2.00/sq ft | $0.50–$2.50/sq ft | Waste handling differs by material. |
What Drives Price
Material selection, wall area, and labor rates drive most differences. For board and batten, choosing fiber cement or vinyl cuts costs relative to wood. Brick options add mass, require tools for cutting and setting, and may demand structural assessment. Assumptions: standard two-story home, 2,000 sq ft of exterior siding, no major repairs, typical climate.
Factors That Affect Price
Key price variables include material type, wall height, architectural complexity, and local labor markets. Selections like fiber cement versus vinyl, or brick veneer versus full brick, shift costs considerably. Additional drivers include window and door openings, attic access, and paint or sealant needs over time. Assumptions: region, wall area, and crew hours.
Regional Price Differences
Prices vary by region due to labor supply, shipping, and contractor demand. In the Southeast, materials may be cheaper but labor can be similar to the national average. The Northeast often shows higher labor costs and permit fees. The Midwest typically falls between these extremes. Range deltas: approximately ±10% to ±25% from national averages, depending on local conditions.
Labor, Hours & Rates
Labor costs depend on complexity and access. Board and batten installations can require more precise fastening and trim work, potentially increasing hours vs. brick veneer where setting bricks is more straightforward but heavier work. Typical, non-custom crews may charge $60–$120 per hour on average, with total hours scaling with wall area and height.
Additional & Hidden Costs
Hidden costs include scaffolding, permit surcharges, and required structural upgrades for brick. If retrofitting a crawlspace or repairing a damaged sheathing, add contingency of 5–15%. Delivery fees and waste disposal are also common add-ons. Regional freight plus seasonal demand can push quotes higher in peak seasons.
Real-World Pricing Examples
Three scenario cards below illustrate typical outcomes for a 2,000 sq ft home. Each scenario uses distinct materials and labor assumptions.
Assumptions: region, specs, labor hours.
Basic
Board and batten, vinyl material, standard two-story home. Materials: $2.50/sq ft; Labor: $2.00/sq ft; Totals: $9,250–$13,500; per sq ft: $4.60–$6.75; Time: 3–5 days.
Mid-Range
Board and batten, fiber cement, full replacement with trim. Materials: $4.00/sq ft; Labor: $3.50/sq ft; Totals: $16,000–$26,000; per sq ft: $8.00–$13.00; Time: 5–7 days.
Premium
Brick veneer with premium mortar and sealing, or full brick with decorative archways. Materials: $12.00–$18.00/sq ft; Labor: $6.50–$12.00/sq ft; Totals: $28,000–$48,000; per sq ft: $14.00–$24.00; Time: 7–14 days.
Maintenance & Ownership Costs
Board and batten may require periodic painting or sealing, particularly with wood options. Fiber cement and vinyl options typically require less ongoing maintenance. Brick finishes often endure 50–100 years with periodic repointing and sealing. Five-year cost outlook for maintenance can add 5–10% of initial outlay for wood or 1–3% for fiber cement or brick veneers.