Cheapest Siding Options
The cheapest siding is vinyl, at about 5 to 9 dollars per square foot installed, followed by engineered wood and then fiber cement. For a 1,500 square foot home, vinyl runs roughly 8,000 to 16,000 dollars. Vinyl is the budget choice for a rental or tight budget, while engineered wood and fiber cement cost more upfront but last longer, which can be cheaper over time.
Siding options from cheapest to most durable
Here is how the common materials rank on cost and lifespan.
| Siding | Cost per sq ft | Lifespan |
|---|---|---|
| Vinyl | 5 to 9 dollars | 20 to 40 years |
| Engineered wood | 7 to 12 dollars | 30 to 40 years |
| Fiber cement | 8 to 14 dollars | 30 to 50 years |
Cheapest now versus cheapest over time
Vinyl is the cheapest to install and a sensible choice for a rental or a tight budget. But the cheapest option upfront is not always the cheapest over the years. Engineered wood and fiber cement cost more to install yet last longer and hold up better in the wet mid valley, so for a home you plan to keep, stepping up a grade can cost less across the life of the siding.
Frequently asked questions
What is the cheapest material to use for siding?
Vinyl is the cheapest siding at about 5 to 9 dollars per square foot installed, making it the budget choice for rentals and tight budgets.
How much does it cost to side a 1500 sq ft house?
With vinyl, roughly 8,000 to 16,000 dollars installed. Engineered wood and fiber cement cost more but last longer.
Is vinyl the cheapest siding?
Yes, vinyl is generally the cheapest siding to install, followed by engineered wood and then fiber cement.
Is cheap siding worth it?
For a rental or short hold, vinyl's low cost makes sense. For a home you keep, a more durable material can cost less over its longer life.