Understanding a Contractor’s Quote for New Vinyl Siding

• September 3rd, 2010
• In: Vinyl Siding
• By: Rob Sabo
• (No Ratings Yet)
  
   Loading ...
• • 

So you have done your homework and gotten siding quotes for new siding installation from three to five different siding contractors. If their siding installation prices vary from several thousands of dollars from the high to the low quote, here’s a few tips to help you figure out how siding contractors derive their quotes.

We’ll take a look at a quote for vinyl siding installation.

Understanding Vinyl Siding Quotes

Vinyl siding contractors figure quotes by the square foot, and an average price per square foot is between $250 and $300–but costs can run much higher for premium siding, as well as for installation premium housing markets. Thus, the price for installed siding in a 2,000-square-foot home would be between $5,000 and $6,000. Premium siding installation can cost between $400 to $600 per square foot, or $8,000 and $12,000 for the same modest-sized home.

Why Siding Costs Vary From One Contractor to the Next

Ask your siding contractor to break down his bid. Did he include the cost of installing fascia, soffits, trim, and new vapor barrier, as well as the cost of these materials? This additional time and materials could boost bids by $3 to $10 per lineal foot.

If you have left the decision of siding type to your contractor’s expertise, what type of siding is he planning on installing. Siding ranges from thinner, less expensive (and lower-quality) material to thicker, premium siding material. Vinyl siding ranges in thickness from around .30 inches to .50 inches. A good quality siding should be around .42 inches or thicker.

By examining your contractor’s bid, you can determine exactly what is included and how much it is going to cost. Don’t be afraid of working with a higher-priced contractor if you have developed a good rapport with him–especially if he can provide examples of quality installations. New siding is a big investment, and you want to pick a contractor that’s knowledgeable and backs his work with service, if necessary.