Replacing the siding of your house is a big start, an expense that works to alter the outlook of your home’s exterior and interior while also fixing and strengthening the framework and insulation of your home. It is very important that homeowners in Portland, Oregon are able to choose the right siding material to use for their home because it can undergo four distinct seasons, from rainy to very hot and dry.
In this guide, we’ll explain the total cost of siding replacement in Portland, different siding materials, and the range of rates that are applicable depending on some factors we will outline in the article together with some recommendations that can help you get the most out of your siding replacement project.
Why Replacing Siding in Portland is Important
It’s critical to know why replacing your home siding is important, particularly in Portland’s climate. The Pacific Northwest has a reputation for its rains throughout this region. Day by day, the rain water finds its way into the siding that has cracked and begins to form mold or covers up with rot, affecting the houses structural stability.
Also, old siding may not offer the required insulation to retain your home’s energy efficiency resulting in high energy costs during winter and summer periods. Changing the siding of your home improves the aesthetic value of the home, increases the resale value of the home and also improves its energy efficiency.
Average Cost of Replacing Siding in Portland
The cost of replacing siding in Portland will depend on the size of the house, choice of siding material, labor, and extra work. Depending on the house size and service provider, homeowners in Portland will likely have to spend $8-$ 25 for siding replacement, say, between $10-$18.
Here’s a breakdown of the various factors that influence the overall cost of replacing siding:
1. Siding Material
The most notable factor influencing the total expenses of the project is the choice of siding material. Because of this, different materials come in different price ranges, durability, and maintenance levels. So, let’s consider the most common siding materials in Portland and how much they cost respectively:
i. Vinyl Siding
Cost: It costs between $3 and $8 for every square footage installed.
Pros: Vinyl siding costs much less, and its possibilities are virtually endless as to colors and designs, with the minimal need for maintenance. In addition it is water proof that fits well in the climatic conditions of the city of Portland.
Cons: Although versatile and resilient, it can crack in freezing temperatures and warp in heavy heat. Compared with other materials it may not offer as much insulation.
ii. Fiber Cement Siding
Cost: $6 to $12 cost per installed square footage
Pros: James Hardie siding is a great material for homes as it is fire and water resistant, pest, and rot resistant. It is best suited for the wet Portland weather and has longevity with low maintenance requirements.
Cons: Fiber cement is heavier and more costly than vinyl in regard to the installation process. It also requires painting from time to time to keep up its aesthetic appeal.
iii. Wood Siding
Cost: Installed between $7 to $15 for each square foot
Pros:One of the many reasons many homeowners prefer wood siding is the fact that it enhances the natural beauty of a home. It is also customizable with different stains and finishes, and has good thermal resistance.
Cons: In most cases, wood siding is also more prone to moisture damage, pest infestation, and rotting which makes it inappropriate for Portland’s humid weather, unless well maintained. It also requires more maintenance, such as painting or staining after every few years.
iv. Engineered Wood Siding
Cost: $5-10 per square foot for installation
Pros: Engineered wood siding replicates the look of natural wood, but boasts of superior resistance to moisture, rot and even insect attack. It is also lighter and less cumbersome to install as compared to wood siding.
Cons: Engineered wood siding is stronger than natural wood. However, that does not mean it is water-resistant, and proper sealing and maintenance are still essential to prevent any water damage.
v. Metal Siding (Aluminum or Steel)
Cost: Installed costs vary between $5 and $12 per square foot.
Pros: Metal siding is above all strong, fireproof, and requires little upkeep. It can endure harsh climates making it ideal for such places that experience heavy rains or snow.
Cons: As can be expected of any material, metal sidings may also have their disadvantages some of which include ease of denting and their metallic industrial look presented in homes. Metal sidings may also rust if not seasoned or specially coated.
vi. Stucco Siding
Cost: Installing costs range from $6 to $12 per square foot
Pros: Stucco siding is a weather resistant energy-efficient type of siding. It has a distinct textured look which can be further enhanced by using various colors.
Cons: Of the available siding options, stucco is the most expensive to utilize. In addition to that, if there are any cracks, stucco is prone to repairs especially in areas that are frequently moist.
vii. Stone Veneer Siding
Cost: Installation costs range from $10 – $25 per square foot.
Pros: Siding with stone veneer gives a rich and luxurious look and is very strong and resistant. This siding is moisture-, insect-, and even fire-resistant. It is perfect for those considering extreme use of durability.
Cons: The stone veneer is one of the most expensive materials for siding and its installation can be expensive. It is also heavier than other materials, which may result in the increase in the cost of labor.
2. Size of Your Home
The overall expense that one incurs for replacement of siding will always be determined by the size of the house as larger houses will need more materials and labor. Since siding is normally charged on a square footage basis, an approximate total cost for the project can be given by finding out the square footage of the exterior walls of the house.
When computing the surface area of a house’s exterior walls, determine the height and the width of each wall then multiply the two figures to get the total square footage. For instance, if one wall has a width of 20ft and a height of 10 ft, the surface area would be 200 sq ft. Carry out the same for each wall and find the total surface area.
3. Labor Costs
Aspects such as the contractor’s choice, the job’s difficulty level, and the geographical location can affect how construction costs vary. Labor cost estimates for siding installation in Portland are usually between $2 to $5 per square foot. Remember that more complex installations, such as buildings with multiple stories, those with steep roofs, or intricate architecture design, may call for higher labor costs.
4. Additional Factors That Influence Siding Replacement Costs
There are various other elements that can influence the general cost of siding replacement in Portland:
Removal of Existing Siding: The old siding would have to be removed prior to installing the new siding. This can add an extra cost of $1 to $3 per square foot on the overall price, depending on the type of existing siding and its state.
Repairs to Underlying Structures: Moisture, insects or even rot can damage your home’s subsurface, so these will require reinforcement with new siding. Thus influencing the overall project cost.
Permits: In Portland, a permit may be necessary in order to replace your siding; more particularly in cases where structural repairs would need to be done. The usual range for the cost of permits is from $100 to $300.
Insulation: A homeowner may want to install additional insulation if the existing siding on the house has insufficient insulation prior to the installation of new siding. This can increase the price by $1 to $3 per square foot to the total cost but will make your house much more energy-efficient.
Painting or Staining: Some siding materials which include wood and fiber cement need painting or staining to enhance their look and protect them from external conditions. The costs of painting or staining may vary with a range of $1 to $3 per square foot.
Choosing the Right Siding for Portland’s Climate
Understandably, the selection of siding to put around your house in Portland should take long-term weather patterns into account. With rain being a constant and occasional storms, it’s only inevitable that Portland’s climate calls for siding materials that do not rot, do not allow moisture to penetrate, and are tough and durable.
As such, here are some of the most suitable recommended siding materials for the city of Portland:
Fiber Cement Siding: Fiber cement siding is very suitable for the rainy weather in Portland. It does not warp or rot, and it does not succumb to pests. It insulates well also, and is resistant to fire so it makes a good and flexible product.
Engineered Wood Siding: Engineered wood siding comes with the appearance of natural wood but does not suffer the problems of moisture intrusion and rot. It is better able to withstand the rainy weather of Portland and requires less maintenance than natural wood.
Vinyl Siding: Vinyl siding is cheap, waterproof, lightweight, and easy to maintain which is why most Portland residents go for it. Still, insulation as well as the other sidings, so it’s advisable to add insulation at the time of installation.
Metal Siding: Metal siding is easy to maintain thanks to its profound strength and resistance to moisture, hence works well in the wet weather of Portland. It requires little care but its appearance may not fit well in all types of houses.
Maximizing the Value of Your Siding Replacement
Siding replacement is a significant investment, but there are ways to maximize the value of your project and ensure you get the best return on your investment. Here are a few tips to consider:
1. Hire a Reputable Contractor
Siding installation is not only about the application of materials but the internal skill of installing them specially – siding installation. Always ensure that you hire a good contractor as this will contribute to the durability of the siding installed. Seek out installers who have positive reviews, have appropriate licensing and insurance. Do not shy away from asking for and looking at previous work done by the contractor.
2. Consider Energy Efficiency
Another benefit of changing your siding is the opportunity to increase the energy efficiency of your home. This means that it is possible to add insulation under the new siding which helps to avoid heat dissipation during winter and keep your home cooler in the warmer climates.
3. Choose Durable Materials
It is easy to understand how the cheaper alternative can be chosen for the most part, but by using the best long lasting high quality materials – this technique can be economical in the end. Long lasting siding materials, for instance, fiber cement or engineered wood might be expensive to install but it is easier to maintain the surface.
4. Regular Maintenance
It is critical that you maintain your new siding, as it increases its chances of lasting longer. Wash your siding from time to time to get rid of any dust or dirt and check the surface for damaged areas such as cracks, rotting, or buckling. Resolve any matters to avoid more serious (and costly) repairs being necessary later.
Conclusion
Replacing the siding of your Portland house is a good decision worth investing in as it can enhance the home’s appeal, guard the house against weather elements, and promote energy efficiency. Such expenditures on the replacement of the siding will certainly depend on the size of your home and the structural materials used, among other aspects, but knowing these will enable you to make a wise choice.
Protecting one’s home as well as ensuring that there is an aesthetic value for many years can be achieved by installing the right siding material for Portland’s weather, hiring an experienced contractor and taking care of the new sidings. Be it vinyl siding, fiber cement, or premium stone veneer, re-siding your home is a worthwhile endeavor in both the immediate and distant future.
Looking for professional, reliable siding replacement services in Portland? Look no further! River City Roofing is here to help. With top-quality materials and expert installation, River City Roofing ensures your home looks great and stays protected. Contact us today for a free consultation and quote on your siding project!