How Much Siding For A 1200 Square Foot House

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Introduction

When it comes to the exterior of your home, siding plays a crucial role in protecting your house from the elements while also enhancing its curb appeal. Deciding on the right type of siding for your 1200 square foot house is an important decision that requires careful consideration. Various factors such as the material, cost, and labor involved need to be taken into account to make an informed choice.

In this article, we will explore the different factors to consider when determining how much siding you need for a 1200 square foot house. We will also delve into the various types of siding available and discuss the costs associated with materials and labor. By the end, you will have a comprehensive understanding of what it takes to give your house the perfect siding it deserves.

Factors to Consider

Before diving into calculating the amount of siding needed for your 1200 square foot house, it’s important to consider a few key factors that can affect your decision:

1. Weather Conditions: The climate of your area plays a significant role in determining the type of siding that will provide optimal protection. For example, if you live in an area with heavy rain or snowfall, you may want to consider siding materials that are resistant to moisture.
2. Aesthetics: The visual appeal of your house is another essential factor to think about. The style and color of the siding should complement the overall architecture and design of your home. Keep in mind that certain materials, such as vinyl siding, offer a wide range of color options to choose from.
3. Maintenance: Consider the level of maintenance required for each type of siding. Some materials, like vinyl, are low maintenance and only require occasional cleaning, while others, like wood, may need regular maintenance such as painting or staining.
4. Durability: The longevity of the siding material is crucial to ensure its durability. Factors such as resistance to fading, cracking, and warping should be taken into account. Additionally, consider the warranty offered by the manufacturer as an indicator of the material’s quality.
5. Environmental Impact: If sustainability is a priority for you, look for siding materials that are eco-friendly and made from recycled or renewable resources. Some options to consider are fiber cement siding or engineered wood siding.

By considering these factors, you can narrow down your options and choose the siding that best suits your needs, budget, and preferences.

Calculation of Square Footage

Before determining how much siding you need for your 1200 square foot house, it’s important to understand how to calculate the square footage of your home’s exterior walls. This measurement will serve as the basis for estimating the amount of siding required.

To calculate the square footage, follow these steps:

1. Measure the Walls: Start by measuring each wall of your house individually. Use a tape measure to measure the height and width of each wall, and record these measurements in feet.
2. Calculate Wall Area: To calculate the area of each wall, multiply the height by the width. For example, if a wall is 8 feet tall and 20 feet wide, the area would be 8 feet x 20 feet = 160 square feet.
3. Add Up the Areas: Repeat this process for all the walls of your house. Once you have calculated the area of each wall, add them together to find the total square footage of your house’s exterior walls.

Now that you have the total square footage, you can estimate the amount of siding needed based on the coverage provided by the specific siding material you choose. Siding materials often come with a specified coverage per square foot, allowing you to calculate the quantity required.

Keep in mind that it’s recommended to add a small percentage extra to account for waste, cuts, and future repairs. It’s better to have a little extra siding on hand than to run out during the installation process.

By accurately calculating the square footage of your house and accounting for additional siding, you can ensure that you have enough materials to complete the project without any setbacks.

Types of Siding

When it comes to siding options for your 1200 square foot house, there are several materials to choose from, each with its own unique characteristics and benefits. Let’s explore some of the most popular types of siding:

1. Vinyl Siding: Vinyl siding is one of the most commonly used materials due to its affordability, versatility, and low maintenance requirements. It comes in a wide range of colors and styles, making it easy to find an option that suits your aesthetic preferences. Vinyl siding is also resistant to rot, insects, and fading.
2. Fiber Cement Siding: Fiber cement siding offers the appearance of wood siding without the drawbacks. It is durable, fire-resistant, and resistant to rot and pests. Fiber cement siding requires minimal maintenance and comes in various styles, including shingles, planks, and panels.
3. Wood Siding: Wood siding provides a classic, natural look and can be customized with paint or stain to match your desired aesthetic. Cedar and redwood are popular choices due to their natural resistance to decay and insects. However, wood siding requires regular maintenance to prevent rot and warping.
4. Engineered Wood Siding: Engineered wood siding is made from wood fibers and resins, providing the look of wood with increased durability and resistance to rot and insects. It comes in a variety of textures and finishes and requires less maintenance compared to traditional wood siding.
5. Brick Siding: Brick siding offers a timeless and elegant look that can enhance the beauty of any home. It is highly durable, resistant to fire and pests, and requires minimal maintenance. However, brick siding tends to be more expensive and may require professional installation.
6. Stucco Siding: Stucco siding is a popular choice for Mediterranean, Spanish, or Southwestern-style homes. It is durable, weather-resistant, and can be customized with different colors and textures. Stucco requires professional installation and periodic maintenance to prevent cracks or water damage.

Consider the pros and cons of each siding material, your budget, maintenance preferences, and the overall style of your house when deciding which option is best for your 1200 square foot home. Consulting with a professional contractor can also provide valuable insights and help you make an informed decision.

When calculating how much siding you need for a 1200 square foot house, consider the type of siding and its coverage area. For example, vinyl siding typically covers 100-200 square feet per box, while fiber cement covers 25-35 square feet per board.

Cost of Siding Materials

The cost of siding materials can vary depending on the type of material you choose for your 1200 square foot house. Here’s a breakdown of the average costs per square foot for different siding materials:

1. Vinyl Siding: Vinyl siding is one of the most affordable options, with prices ranging from $3 to $8 per square foot.
2. Fiber Cement Siding: Fiber cement siding is a bit pricier, with costs averaging between $5 and $12 per square foot.
3. Wood Siding: Wood siding can range from $6 to $15 per square foot, depending on the type of wood chosen and the degree of customization.
4. Engineered Wood Siding: Engineered wood siding typically falls in the range of $4 to $10 per square foot.
5. Brick Siding: Brick siding is more expensive, with prices ranging from $8 to $20 per square foot, factoring in the cost of materials and labor.
6. Stucco Siding: Stucco siding is similar in cost to brick siding, with an average range of $8 to $20 per square foot.

These cost estimates are rough averages and can vary based on factors such as the region, market fluctuations, and the complexity of the installation process. It’s important to obtain multiple quotes from reputable contractors to get a better idea of the specific costs for your project.

Additionally, keep in mind that the cost of materials is just one aspect to consider. Installation costs, which we will discuss in the next section, should also be factored into your overall budget. However, choosing a high-quality siding material can provide long-term value and potentially reduce maintenance and replacement costs in the future.

Take the time to research and compare prices, warranties, and the overall durability of different siding materials to find the best option that fits both your budget and aesthetic preferences for your 1200 square foot house.

Labor Costs

In addition to the cost of materials, labor costs are a significant factor to consider when calculating the total expense of siding your 1200 square foot house. The cost of labor can vary depending on several factors, including the location, complexity of the project, and the experience of the contractor.

On average, the labor cost for siding installation ranges from $1 to $3 per square foot. However, keep in mind that this is just an estimate, and the actual cost can be higher or lower depending on the factors mentioned above.

The labor costs typically include the following:

1. Removal of Existing Siding: If there is existing siding on your house that needs to be removed before the new siding can be installed, this will increase the labor costs. The complexity of the removal process, such as the presence of multiple layers of siding or the condition of the existing siding, can impact the labor costs.
2. Preparation of the Surface: Proper preparation of the surface, including cleaning, necessary repairs, and applying any required insulation or moisture barriers, is crucial to ensure the longevity of the siding. The labor costs will include these preparation tasks.
3. Siding Installation: The actual installation of the siding, including measuring, cutting, and affixing the siding to the walls, is a labor-intensive process. The complexity of the installation, such as the chosen siding material and any specific design features, can impact the labor costs.
4. Detailing and Finishing: Detailing work, such as caulking, sealing, and adding trim or accents, is often part of the labor costs. These finishing touches enhance the overall appearance of the siding and require skilled labor.

It’s recommended to obtain quotes from multiple contractors to get a clear picture of the labor costs involved in your specific project. Consider factors such as the contractor’s experience, reputation, and portfolio of completed projects when making your decision.

Keep in mind that investing in experienced and professional contractors can ensure a higher quality installation and minimize the risk of future issues that may result from subpar workmanship. While labor costs can be a significant portion of the total expenses, it’s worth prioritizing quality over the lowest bid to ensure a satisfactory outcome for your 1200 square foot house siding project.

Total Cost Estimate

Estimating the total cost of siding your 1200 square foot house requires accounting for both the material and labor expenses. Here is a breakdown of the approximate total cost based on the average prices mentioned earlier:

1. Vinyl Siding: Assuming a mid-range price of $5 per square foot for materials and an average labor cost of $2 per square foot, the total cost estimate for vinyl siding would be around $9,000 to $12,000.
2. Fiber Cement Siding: Considering an average price of $8 per square foot for materials and a labor cost of $2 per square foot, the total estimate for fiber cement siding would range from approximately $14,400 to $19,200.
3. Wood Siding: With an estimated price of $10 per square foot for materials and a labor cost of $2 per square foot, the total cost estimate for wood siding would fall between $18,000 and $24,000.
4. Engineered Wood Siding: Taking into account a mid-range cost of $6 per square foot for materials and a labor cost of $2 per square foot, the total estimate for engineered wood siding would be approximately $10,800 to $14,400.
5. Brick Siding: Considering a price range of $15 per square foot for materials and a labor cost of $3 per square foot, the total cost estimate for brick siding would range from around $27,000 to $36,000.
6. Stucco Siding: Assuming an average price of $15 per square foot for materials and a labor cost of $3 per square foot, the total estimate for stucco siding would fall between approximately $27,000 and $36,000.

Keep in mind that these estimates are rough approximations and can vary depending on various factors, including the region, specific project requirements, and contractor pricing. It’s always recommended to obtain multiple quotes from reputable contractors to get a more accurate total cost estimate for your unique project.

Remember to factor in any additional expenses, such as permits, equipment rentals, or disposal fees, which may vary depending on your location and the specific requirements of your project. By considering all these aspects, you can develop a comprehensive budget for your 1200 square foot house siding project.

Conclusion

Choosing the right siding for your 1200 square foot house is an important decision that requires careful consideration of various factors. By evaluating elements such as weather conditions, aesthetics, maintenance requirements, durability, and environmental impact, you can narrow down your options and select a siding material that meets your needs and preferences.

Calculating the square footage of your house’s exterior walls is essential to estimate the amount of siding needed, taking into account any additional waste or future repairs. This measurement will serve as the foundation for determining the material and labor costs involved in the project.

When it comes to the types of siding available, options such as vinyl, fiber cement, wood, engineered wood, brick, and stucco provide varying benefits in terms of affordability, durability, maintenance, and aesthetics. By understanding the characteristics of each material, you can make an informed choice that aligns with your budget and desired look for your home.

The cost of siding materials and labor are significant factors to consider. Prices can vary depending on the type of material and the complexity of the project. Obtaining multiple quotes from reputable contractors will give you a clearer idea of the specific costs involved in your area. Remember that investing in quality labor and materials can lead to a better overall outcome and long-term value.

In conclusion, by carefully considering all the factors and estimating the total cost, you can make an informed decision and transform the exterior of your 1200 square foot house with the perfect siding. A well-chosen and properly installed siding will not only protect your home from the elements but also enhance its visual appeal and increase its value.