Vinyl siding may be a good deal, but it isn't cheap. You should research vinyl siding costs to find the best deal.
According to the Vinyl Siding Institute, in 2009 homeowners could expect to pay $92 for materials per 100 square feet of house exterior being covered. Labor costs to install this same amount of siding were $94, making the total cost per 100 square feet--based on these estimated averages--$186.
Where to Research Vinyl Siding Costs
Check with several sources of siding to compare prices. There are many types of businesses offering vinyl siding panels, corner guards, fascia, and trim, and you should compare pricing between as many as you can. These sources include:
- Online siding outlets
- Retail home improvement stores
- Lumber yards
- Local newspaper, magazine, and online classified sections
- Contractors
Hidden Costs of Vinyl Siding
When researching your overall siding project cost be sure to factor in hidden costs that might not show up on written or verbal estimates. These budget drainers can push the price up and include:
- Shipping
- Delivery
- Special order pricing
- Sales tax
Ask the sales people or contractors you speak with about how these potentially hidden costs will affect the estimate you receive.
Research Tools
Armed with a telephone, the Internet, and the knowledge of sources and hidden costs mentioned above, you can research vinyl siding costs.
Begin your search by calling several local retail outlets and contractors to determine the best pricing in your area and what's included in estimates. You'll need this information before going online.
It may seem obvious, but you should also check search engine results page's paid advertisements by major online siding retailers. There are a few online businesses that sell siding outright. Remember that online pricing usually eliminates the need to pay sales tax, but this cost savings might be eaten up in delivery charges.
Do your homework before you buy. A little effort to research vinyl siding costs, can save you a lot of money.
