Vinyl Shake Siding Versus Other Siding Options: A Cost Comparison
A home siding project isn’t cheap.
Before the project can even get underway, you need to choose between siding styles (there are more than you might think!). Then, once you have a style in mind, you need to factor material costs and labor costs into your total project cost, because prices can fluctuate drastically. The wide variety in types of siding is matched by a wide range of potential costs!
Vinyl shake siding is becoming more popular with homeowners who want to give their home a more unique look with great curb appeal. Similar cedar shingles, vinyl shake siding is installed in individual pieces, but the vinyl pieces are larger (combining numerous “shingles” together into one piece. Vinyl shake siding emulates the look of classic cedar shake siding but without the hassle of taking care of a wood home exterior.
The average cost of vinyl shake siding can range from $4 to $8.50 installed per square foot. Want to know more about how the cost of vinyl shake siding stacks up to other types of siding? Keep reading!
Vinyl Shake Siding vs. Traditional Vinyl Siding
Traditional vinyl siding remains an extremely popular siding option in the United States, as it has been since its introduction to the construction market after the second World War.
It’s still the most affordable residential siding product and comes in a wide array of colors, more than ever before, much like vinyl cedar shake siding.
Vinyl siding is relatively maintenance free, only requiring a cleaning every once in a while. It’s durable, but only up to a point, as debris from inclement weather or projectiles thrown from lawn mowers can damage it. If vinyl siding gets punctured, it’s an open invitation for insects, critters, and moisture.
Vinyl siding installation costs anywhere from $3.50 to $8 per square foot.
Vinyl Shake Siding vs. Cedar Shake Siding
Cedar shake siding is the siding material that vinyl shake siding is based upon. Cedar shake became widespread in early Americana with the popularity of cedar shingle roofs, and quickly migrated to usage as siding. The natural oils in cedar wood help to serve as a natural insect repellent, and cedar shakes are still used today to give homes a rustic, frontier charm.
Vinyl shake siding seeks to emulate the look and feel of cedar’s wood grain without all of the maintenance that comes with a real wood product (such as birds, termites, and other pests). Wood siding also has the potential to rot due to moisture, because the natural oils in cedar break down after a few years. Cedar needs regular maintenance and upkeep, and periodic inspection for insect intrusion. The cost to install cedar wood shake siding ranges from $6.50 to $13.50 per square foot.
Vinyl Shake Siding vs. Metal Siding
Another type of siding that’s been on the market for decades is aluminum siding (or metal siding).
It’s low maintenance, resistant to pests, fire, and recyclable, but it’s not a great choice for wet and coastal climates, because it can be prone to corrosion. It also dents easily, leading to an unsightly appearance.
The cost of metal siding varies widely because of the different types of metal that can be installed: aluminum costs between $3 and $6 per square foot, while steel costs between $4 and $8 per square foot. Zinc is the highest-end material used for metal siding because it resists corrosion extremely well, but it’s also very pricey, at $15 to $35 per square foot.
Vinyl Shake Siding vs. Brick or Stone
A brick home has a timeless look to it, and bricks have exceptional resistance to the elements, fire, and decay. The mortar that holds the bricks together, however, is weaker and susceptible to moisture and temperature changes, and may need maintenance every few years.
It’s possible to paint brick, but make sure you like the color! Paint is difficult to remove from brick surfaces, and will usually require some kind of chemical agent to aid the process (along with a good amount of scrubbing and scraping).
Stone veneers are starting to become more common as a siding option, because they deliver the look of natural stone without the cost or weight. But unless they are properly installed, moisture can penetrate between the veneer sheets and cause problems. Brick siding costs between $5 and $15 per square foot to install, while brick veneer can range from $8 to $12 per square foot. Stone veneer is notably more expensive, costing between $12 and $17 per square foot.
Vinyl Shake Siding vs. Fiber Cement Siding
Fiber cement siding, such as Hardie siding, is a combination of wood pulp and minerals that mimics the look of old-fashioned clapboard siding. It’s got good durability and is resistant to animals and insects. Some fiber cement siding manufacturers even offer a warranty! It can also be painted, but the paint tends to wear and flake and so it likely needs to be repainted every few years.
Despite its high-end status, fiber cement siding can be susceptible to moisture and is also very heavy. You also need a siding contractor who is experienced in fiber cement siding installation, because it’s not an easy material to work with. Fiber cement siding has a tendency to crack if not installed properly. It’s definitely not a DIY project! Fiber cement siding costs between $8.50 and $14.50 per square foot.
Vinyl Shake Siding: Appeal and Strength at a Great Price
Adding new siding to your home is one of the best home improvements to not only add beauty, but improve your home’s resale value. Vinyl shake siding combines all of the best aspects of every type of siding: it’s available at a low cost, has incredible visual appeal, has great durability, and is extremely easy to maintain.
If you’re ready to replace your old siding, contact us at Factory Direct Siding and take a look at our vinyl shake siding options!
