Siding protects your home and is critical to its structural integrity, so fixing it promptly when it’s damaged is vital. Siding repair costs typically fall between $2,000 and $14,000* per 1,000 square feet. Prices vary depending on the extent of the damage and the type of siding.

This guide covers average labor, repair, and material costs and will help you decide whether to repair existing siding or invest in something new.

*Article cost data via Angi and HomeGuide.

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Major Siding Repair Cost Factors

Here are four factors to consider when estimating your project budget:

• Square footage: The home’s exterior size is likely close to the overall square footage. Estimate the measurement of each side of the house and the gable walls for a more specific number.
• Siding material: Wood and vinyl siding repair are the least expensive options. Repairing reinforced vinyl or HardiePlank (a popular fiber cement brand) is costlier.
• Repair type: The extent of the repair impacts pricing. For example, you’ll pay more to replace underlayment or gutters.
• Labor: Geography influences labor costs. More expensive areas, such as large cities, will have higher installation costs.

Square Footage of Damaged Area

Compare different square footage repair costs to see how project price changes.

Siding Material

Material costs directly impact the overall amount you’ll pay for a siding repair project. 

• Wood siding: Wood siding repair varies depending on the wood type and falls between $5 and $15 per square foot.
• Vinyl siding: Vinyl siding costs between $4 and $12 per square foot.
• Aluminum siding: Aluminum metal siding ranges from $6–$10 per square foot.
• Hardie board siding: Hardie board is high-end fiber cement siding that costs $6–$15 per square foot on average.
• Brick siding: Brick siding repairs cost between $8 and $18 per square foot.

Repair Type

The following components influence how much you’ll spend on siding repair:

• Filling cracks
• Painting
• Repairing holes
• Replacing water-damaged boards

Labor

Labor cost varies by location and the level of skill and experience of the contractors you hire. A general contractor typically has a high level of experience and oversees large projects. If your siding repair project is part of a larger renovation, you may spend as much as $300–$500 per day for their fee alone. The average day rate for helpers is $150–$250. Subcontractors specializing in siding usually charge around $40–$50 per hour. Those fees could increase if you have an area that’s difficult to access or need specialized equipment like scaffolding to get the job done. 

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Repairing vs. Replacing Damaged Siding

Some siding projects can be repaired with caulk and sealant, while others require replacing entire planks. You can usually seal up small craps or chips. You should replace the whole damaged area if you see warping or rotting. 

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DIY vs. Professional Siding Repair

Do-it-yourself (DIY) siding repairs can save money but sometimes require extra time to fix, making them better for a professional to handle. Learn more about the pros and cons of DIY and professional repairs in the following sections.

DIY Siding Repair

Consider the job’s scope and your home improvement skills before undertaking a DIY siding repair project. Repairing a small hole or replacing a few planks with new siding may not be difficult and could keep your total cost down—especially if you have some leftover materials from the original installation.

You should also consider potential costs and savings if the damage seems manageable and you want to DIY the project. First, estimate how many linear feet of siding you’ll need and figure out how to transport pieces longer than 12 feet since it can be hard to fit in a truck. Next, consider specialty tools you’ll need to rent or purchase. Then, compare how much you’ll save from avoiding labor costs.

It may be worth hiring a pro to deal with large jobs or extensive damage if you’re unsure of the scope. For instance, dry rot, termites, water damage, mildew, or mold may exceed your experience. Plus, homes built before 1980 could contain asbestos, and that alone requires professional help.

Here is a step-by-step overview of a small wood siding repair job:

1. Remove damaged siding by cutting nails. 
2. Salvage any reusable pieces.
3. Insert a new piece in between the old siding.
4. Stagger the next piece above, alternating between old and new pieces.
5. Nail in place and repeat.

Explore more specific projects from This Old House:

• How To Patch Wood Siding
• How To Repair Vinyl Siding
• How To Repair Board and Batten Siding
• How To Repair Water-Damaged Siding

Professional Siding Repair

Here are a few reasons to consider hiring a pro:

• A professional will be able to determine and address the full extent of the damage. 
• Contractors have professional insurance that protects them in case of injury.
• Experienced pros will know how to perform high-quality work that accounts for environmental factors.
• Reputable contractors may offer extended warranties on work and materials.
• Professionals can navigate the permit process for larger jobs.

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How To Save on Siding Repair

Reduce your overall siding repair cost with these tips:

• Get multiple contractor quotes.
• Ask for an installation warranty.
• Remove old siding yourself.
• Schedule the project during the fall, which is a slower time for contractors.

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Additional Siding Repair Cost Factors

• Upper vs. Lower Level Siding: Contractors may charge more to repair siding on upper levels because there is more injury risk.
• Asbestos Testing: Homes built before 1980 may require asbestos testing. This costs an average of $482. 
• Amount of Damage: Your project cost will increase if there’s structural damage beneath the siding.
• Trim Replacement/Repair: Trim around doors or windows may need to be repaired or replaced. Trim repair or replacement ranges from $3–$12 per square foot, depending on materials and the trim’s location.
• Mold Remediation: You should remove mold under siding because it’s a health hazard. The average remediation project costs between $1,150 and $3,400.
• Dry Rot Repair: Scope matters when it comes to dry rot. You often find it in small areas along window trim, which costs between $100 and $2,000 to repair. 
• Trash Disposal: A contractor’s cost estimate should include old siding disposal. The cost will vary depending on project size.

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How To Hire a Pro

Here’s what to do if you’re ready to hire a pro:

• Get references from family, friends, and online reviews
• Confirm that the contractor is licensed and insured
• Review the quote details
• Request a project completion timeline

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Our Conclusion

The total cost of a siding repair project depends on the scope of damage. You can tackle small-scale projects, but large projects—or those that require structural repairs or are above the first floor—should be left to the pros. 

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FAQ About Siding Repair Costs

Will homeowners insurance cover the cost of siding repair?

Homeowners insurance covers the cost of siding repair if the damage was caused by an event covered in your policy. This usually includes storm damage, vandalism, fire, or smoke.

Can you replace just a few pieces of siding?

You can replace a few pieces of siding if the damage is in a small section. Be careful that adjacent siding isn’t inadvertently damaged when pulling out the pieces needing replacement.

How much does it cost to repair rotted wood siding?

The cost to repair rotted wood siding depends on how much siding you need to be replace. It also depends if there is any structural damage underneath, such as rotted sheathing or framing.

Is it worth replacing vinyl siding?

Whether or not it’s worth replacing vinyl siding depends on your goals. Replacing vinyl siding can increase curb appeal and keep the integrity of your home safe and secure. You could also increase your home value with new vinyl siding. One report notes that homeowners recoup 82% of vinyl siding costs when selling.

Is it cheaper to paint a house or to put siding on it?

It’s cheaper to paint a house than to put siding on it. A paint job costs about half as much as new siding. However, a fresh coat of paint won’t fix major damage and may only extend the life of old siding for a few years.

How much does it cost to repair damaged siding with asbestos?

The cost to repair damaged siding with asbestos ranges from $9–$10 per square foot. 

What type of siding lasts the longest?

Fiber cement siding is the longest-lasting siding. You can expect fiber cement siding to last 30–50 years.

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