Why DIY Siding Saves $15K But Costs You More
Homeowners who compare siding bids often notice that labor is the biggest single line item. A professional crew can add fifteen thousand dollars or more to the cost of a full siding replacement on an average sized house. That number makes many people wonder if they can save the entire labor cost by doing the job themselves. While the math looks simple, the hidden costs of DIY siding usually turn the savings into losses. The real expense comes from extended timelines, tool purchases, code mistakes, warranty voids, and long term durability problems.
This guide explains what you really save, what you risk, and where the money goes in both paths.
Style and Selection Explainer
Core Profiles
Siding comes in several common profiles:
- Lap siding: Long horizontal boards with overlapping edges. Fits traditional homes.
- Board and batten: Vertical planks with narrow strips covering joints. Fits farmhouses and modern builds.
- Shingles or shakes: Small pieces with staggered joints. Adds texture and fits cottages.
- Panels: Large sheets with grooves. Used in modern or commercial looks.
Material Options
| Material | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Vinyl | Low cost, low maintenance, wide colors | Brittle in cold, can fade, seams visible |
| Fiber cement | Resists fire, insects, and rot, long life | Heavy, requires special saw, silica dust hazard |
| Wood | Natural look, easy to cut | Requires painting or staining, vulnerable to rot |
| Engineered wood | Lighter than fiber cement, prefinished boards | Still needs care at cuts and edges |
| Metal | Durable, resists fire and insects | Can dent, limited styles |
Mix Rules
Mixing profiles can balance a facade. A common rule is one dominant material with one accent. For example, lap siding on the main walls and shingles in the gables. Too many mixes make a home look busy.
Trim and Accent Logic
Trim frames the siding and protects edges. Corners, window casings, and soffit boards should be consistent in width. White or neutral trim often balances bold siding colors.
Example Scenarios
- Small ranch: Vinyl lap siding with simple white trim provides low cost coverage.
- Two story farmhouse: Board and batten on the first floor with lap on the second creates vertical strength.
- Coastal cottage: Fiber cement shingles resist salt air while keeping the shingle style look.
Step-by-Step Project Prep
1. Define Goals and Scope
Decide if the project is full replacement or partial repair. Clarify if trim, soffits, fascia, and gutters are included.
2. Shortlist Contractors and Compare Bids
Request at least three written bids. Compare scope line by line. The cheapest bid often leaves out critical steps like disposal or flashing.
3. Samples, Mockups, Approvals
Ask for color samples and, if possible, a small mockup panel on the house. Check appearance in different light. Confirm with local design boards if required.
4. Site Readiness and Daily Routine
Clear shrubs and move outdoor furniture. Expect noise, dust, and debris. Pro crews clean daily. A DIY installer must manage all staging and cleanup.
5. Quality Checks at Each Milestone
- After removal, check sheathing for rot.
- After wrap and flashing, verify continuous coverage.
- During siding install, check fastener depth and spacing.
- At trim stage, confirm neat joints and caulk coverage.
- At final cleanup, inspect paint touch ups and debris removal.
Maintenance Checklist
- Wash siding gently once a year
- Keep vegetation trimmed back 12 inches from walls
- Repaint or refinish on the stated cycle for material type
- Re caulk joints every few years
- Inspect after storms for damage
- Keep gutters and downspouts clear to prevent water backup
Living with Your Cladding
Siding is the first line of defense against weather, pests, and fire. While skipping labor costs appears to save money, the long term balance often tips the other way. Professional installation spreads the cost across speed, quality, warranty protection, and resale value. A DIY approach can save cash upfront but may cost more in repairs, exposure, and lost value later. The safest way to treat siding is as a structural investment, not just a cosmetic cover.