What is a siding estimate template?

A siding estimate template is a pre-formatted document that helps siding contractors itemize project costs for clients. It includes sections for square footage calculations, material quantities, labor hours, removal costs, and disposal fees. Professional templates also include payment terms, project timelines, and warranty information. Using a template ensures you capture all costs, present quotes professionally, and maintain consistent pricing across your business.

How do you calculate a siding estimate?

Start by measuring the height and width of each exterior wall section. Calculate square footage for each wall, then subtract windows and doors. Add all sections together and divide by 100 to get number of squares. Add 10-15% waste factor. Multiply squares by material cost per square. Estimate labor hours based on material type (6-8 hours per square for vinyl, 8-12 for fiber cement). Add removal costs, wall repairs, house wrap, trim, and disposal fees. Apply markup and profit margin to reach final estimate.

What is the formula for calculating siding?

The basic siding formula is: Total Squares = (Total Wall Area - Openings) × 1.10 ÷ 100. First, calculate wall square footage by measuring height × width for each wall section. Subtract area of windows, doors, and garage doors. Multiply by 1.10 to add 10% waste factor. Divide by 100 to convert to squares (one square equals 100 square feet). Multiply squares by material cost and labor rate. Add costs for trim, corners, removal, and disposal to get total project cost.

How much does siding installation cost per square foot?

Siding costs vary widely by material type and location. Vinyl siding typically ranges from $4-13 per square foot installed, with most projects averaging $6-8 per square foot. Fiber cement runs $7-18 per square foot installed. Wood siding costs $12-20+ per square foot. These ranges include both materials and labor. Removal of old siding adds $1-3 per square foot. Complex homes with multiple stories or architectural details cost more due to increased labor time and equipment needs.

How many squares of siding do I need?

One square of siding equals 100 square feet. Measure each wall section (height × width in feet) and add them together for total square footage. Subtract the area of windows, doors, and garage doors. Divide total by 100 to get base squares needed. Always add 10-15% extra for waste, cuts, and future repairs. Round up to nearest half square when ordering. A typical two-story home requires 20-30 squares of siding.

What should be included in a siding estimate?

A complete siding estimate should include: removal and disposal of old siding, wall inspection and sheathing repairs, house wrap or weather barrier, siding panels or planks with square footage, corner trim (inside and outside), J-channel and trim around openings, starter strips, soffit and fascia work, flashing updates, caulking and sealants, labor for installation, equipment rental if needed, permits if required, cleanup, payment terms, project timeline, and warranty details. Clearly state what is and is not included to avoid disputes.

How long does it take to install siding?

Installation time varies by house size, material type, and complexity. A typical single-story home (1,500 sq ft) takes 3-5 days for vinyl siding, 5-7 days for fiber cement. Two-story homes (2,500 sq ft) take 5-8 days for vinyl, 8-12 days for fiber cement. This includes removal of old siding, wall prep, installation, and trim work. Complex architectural features, multiple stories, and weather delays can extend timelines. Always include weather contingency language in your estimate.

What is the difference between a siding estimate and quote?

A siding estimate provides an approximate cost range based on initial measurements and assumptions—it's expected to change if hidden damage is discovered. A quote is a fixed price offer that becomes binding when the client accepts, assuming no scope changes. Estimates work well for initial conversations and ballpark pricing. Quotes should be used when you've inspected the walls thoroughly and are ready to book the project. Most contractors provide estimates first, then convert to fixed quotes before work begins.

How much should I mark up siding materials?

Standard markup rates for siding materials: siding panels 30-50% (vinyl on the lower end, specialty materials higher), trim and accessories 40-60%, soffit and fascia 35-50%. You're not just selling materials—you're providing sourcing expertise, proper handling, installation knowledge, warranty coverage, and project management. Commodity items with transparent pricing get lower markup, while specialty materials and custom trim command higher margins. Track your actual costs and adjust markup to maintain 15-25% net profit on completed projects.

Should I include removal costs in my siding estimate?

Yes, always include removal and disposal costs as separate line items in your estimate. Old siding removal typically costs $1-3 per square foot depending on material type and disposal fees. Itemizing removal separately shows transparency and protects you if hidden damage is discovered. Include language about additional charges for unexpected wall repairs found during removal. This prevents disputes and ensures clients understand the full scope and cost of the project.

🏠Professional Contractor Template

Free Siding Estimate Template

A siding estimate template is a pre-formatted document that calculates material quantities, labor hours, and total costs for exterior siding installation and replacement projects.

Create accurate siding estimates for any residential or commercial project. Track siding panels, trim materials, labor hours, equipment rental, and disposal costs. This professional template helps you price jobs competitively while maintaining healthy profit margins on vinyl, fiber cement, wood, and metal siding installations.

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Square footage calculator

Material quantity formulas

Labor hour estimation

Trim & accessory tracking

Waste factor included

Customizable for any material

100% Free Template

Free Siding Estimate Template Download

Professional siding estimate template designed for residential and commercial exterior projects. Calculate square footage, material quantities, labor hours, and total costs with built-in formulas. Create detailed, client-ready estimates that win more jobs and protect your profit margins.

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Excel Template

Auto-calculate costs instantly

Built-in square footage formulas
Material quantity tracking
Labor hour calculator

Free

PDF Template

Send professional estimates

Client-ready format
Print or email
Clean layout

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Industry Data 2026

Siding Industry Insights

Key statistics and trends that help siding contractors price their services competitively and run profitable businesses.

U.S. Siding Industry Report

Market data and professional benchmarks

$14.2B

U.S. Siding Market (2026)

1.8M

Annual Siding Projects

4.2%

Annual Growth Rate

Average Project Costs by Material

Vinyl siding installation averages $4-13 per square foot installed. Fiber cement ranges $7-18 per square foot. Wood siding runs $12-20 per square foot. These prices include both materials and labor for complete installations.

Labor Cost Breakdown

Labor typically accounts for 40-60% of total siding project costs. Professional installation runs $2-5 per square foot for vinyl, $4-8 per square foot for fiber cement, and $6-12 per square foot for wood siding depending on complexity and regional rates.

Material Market Share

Vinyl siding dominates with 30% market share due to affordability and low maintenance. Fiber cement is growing rapidly for its durability and fire resistance. Wood siding maintains 3% market share in premium and historic renovation projects.

Common Estimation Errors

Contractors who fail to account for wall repairs, proper waste factors, and trim accessories often lose 15-25% of expected profit. Accurate estimating with detailed templates reduces unprofitable jobs significantly.

Data current as of: February 2026

Sources: IBISWorld, Remodeling Magazine, National Association of Home Builders

Everything You Need in a Estimate Template

Our templates include all the essential elements for professional estimates

📐

Square Footage Calculator

Calculate wall area automatically by entering height and width. Subtract window and door openings. Get accurate material quantities for any house size or configuration.

🏗️

Material Cost Tracking

Itemize siding panels, trim boards, corner posts, J-channel, and accessories with quantities and unit costs. Track costs for vinyl, fiber cement, wood, or metal siding types.

⏱️

Labor Hour Estimation

Estimate installation hours based on square footage and material type. Separate rates for removal, wall prep, installation, and trim work. Calculate total labor costs automatically.

📄

Professional Presentation

Client-ready estimates that look polished and professional. Add your logo, terms, conditions, and project timeline. Build trust with detailed breakdowns.

💰

Waste Factor & Markup

Built-in waste factor calculations for cuts and errors. Apply appropriate material markup and labor margins. Track overhead costs and ensure every job is profitable.

📋

Complete Cost Capture

Include removal costs, disposal fees, wall repairs, house wrap, flashing, caulking, and permits. Never miss hidden costs that eat into your margins.

Must-Have Components

7 Essential Elements Every Siding Estimate Must Include

Professional siding estimates must include client details, scope of work, itemized costs, payment terms, timeline, legal disclaimers, and company branding to ensure clarity and enforceability.

Client & Property Information

Client name, address, phone, and email
Property address if different from billing
House style, stories, and square footage
Access notes and site restrictions

Detailed Scope of Work

Specific areas to be sided (all walls or partial)
Siding material type, style, and color
Removal and disposal of existing siding
What is NOT included in the estimate

Itemized Cost Breakdown

Siding panels with square footage and pricing
Trim, corners, J-channel, and accessories
Labor hours by task (removal, prep, install)
House wrap, flashing, and weatherproofing

Payment Terms & Schedule

Deposit amount required (typically 30-50%)
Progress payment at material delivery
Final payment due upon completion
Accepted payment methods

Project Timeline

Estimated start date
Project duration (typically 3-14 days)
Weather contingency language
Completion date expectations

Legal Protections

Estimate validity period (30-60 days)
Change order procedures
Warranty terms on materials and workmanship
Insurance and licensing information

Pro Tip: Document Wall Condition

Take photos of existing siding and wall sheathing before starting work. Hidden rot or damage discovered during removal can be documented and billed as change orders, protecting you from scope creep.

How to Create a Siding Estimate Step by Step

Creating a siding estimate involves measuring wall area, calculating material quantities, estimating labor hours, adding overhead costs, and presenting the quote professionally to the client.

Follow these simple steps to create your first estimate

Measure Wall Area Accurately

Measure the height and width of each exterior wall section. Calculate square footage for each wall, then subtract the area of windows, doors, and garage doors. Add all wall sections together for total square footage. Divide by 100 to get number of squares.

Choose Siding Material & Calculate Quantities

Determine siding type based on client budget and preferences: vinyl, fiber cement, wood, or metal. Calculate material quantities based on square footage. Add 10-15% waste factor for cuts, errors, and future repairs. Include trim, corners, J-channel, starter strips, and accessories.

Estimate Labor Hours

Break the project into tasks: old siding removal, wall inspection and repairs, house wrap installation, siding installation, and trim work. Estimate hours for each task based on material type and house complexity. Vinyl typically takes 6-8 hours per square, fiber cement takes longer.

Add Removal & Disposal Costs

Include labor for removing existing siding. Calculate disposal fees based on material type and local dump rates. Account for additional time if asbestos testing or lead paint remediation is required on older homes.

Include Wall Prep & Repairs

Budget for wall sheathing inspection and repairs. Include house wrap or weather barrier installation. Add flashing around windows and doors. Account for caulking and sealants. These items are often overlooked but critical for proper installation.

Apply Markup & Present Estimate

Mark up materials appropriately: 30-50% for siding panels, 40-60% for trim and accessories. Add your desired profit margin on labor. Review all calculations, add payment terms and timeline, include your warranty, and send the polished estimate to your client.

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Estimate vs. Quote vs. Proposal: Which Do You Need?

Estimates provide approximate costs, quotes offer fixed pricing, and proposals present comprehensive project plans with material specifications and value propositions.

Understanding the difference helps you use the right document for each situation and set proper client expectations.

Feature	📝Estimate	💵Quote	📋Proposal
Pricing Type	Approximate range	Fixed, binding price	Detailed breakdown
Legally Binding?		Yes, when accepted	Yes, with signature
Level of Detail	General scope	Specific line items	Comprehensive plan
Best For	Initial conversations	Ready-to-book clients	Large commercial jobs
Time to Create	20-30 minutes	30-60 minutes	2-4 hours
Price Can Change?	Yes, expected	No, unless scope changes	No, locked in
Includes Warranty?	Rarely	Usually yes	Always yes

Pricing Type

📝Estimate

Approximate range

💵Quote

Fixed, binding price

📋Proposal

Detailed breakdown

📝Estimate

Rarely

💵Quote

Usually yes

📋Proposal

Always yes

For most residential siding jobs, a detailed estimate that converts to a fixed quote upon client approval works well. Commercial projects benefit from full proposals with specifications.

Sample Siding Estimate: Full House Vinyl Siding

A typical residential siding estimate includes old siding removal, wall prep, house wrap, siding panels, trim work, and cleanup with labor and materials itemized separately.

See how a professional siding estimate breaks down costs for a complete vinyl siding replacement on a two-story home.

Complete Vinyl Siding Replacement

Two-story colonial home - 2,400 sq ft exterior wall area

Item	Description	Qty	Rate	Amount
Old Siding Removal Remove existing wood siding and dispose	Remove existing wood siding and dispose	24 squares	$75/square	$1,800
Wall Inspection & Repairs Inspect sheathing, replace damaged sections	Inspect sheathing, replace damaged sections	1 lot	$850	$850
House Wrap Installation Tyvek weather barrier, entire house	Tyvek weather barrier, entire house	2400 sq ft	$1/sq ft	$1,560
Vinyl Siding Panels Premium vinyl siding, Dutch lap style, 27 squares	Premium vinyl siding, Dutch lap style, 27 squares	27 squares	$285/square	$7,695
Corner Posts & Trim Outside corners (8), inside corners (4)	Outside corners (8), inside corners (4)	12 pieces	$45/piece	$540
J-Channel & Window Trim J-channel around 18 windows and 3 doors	J-channel around 18 windows and 3 doors	21 openings	$35/opening	$735
Soffit & Fascia Vinyl soffit and fascia, 220 linear feet	Vinyl soffit and fascia, 220 linear feet	220 lin ft	$12/lin ft	$2,640
Installation Labor Professional installation crew, 6 days	Professional installation crew, 6 days	192 hours	$55/hour	$10,560
Disposal & Cleanup Debris removal, dumpster rental, final cleanup	Debris removal, dumpster rental, final cleanup	1 lot	$950	$950

Subtotal:$27,330

Total:$27,330

Payment Terms

40% deposit to schedule and order materials, 40% at project midpoint, 20% upon final walkthrough and approval. Payment due within 7 days of invoice. We accept check, credit card, and bank transfer.

Key Takeaways from This Estimate

1Square footage includes 10% waste factor for cuts and repairs
2Labor hours account for two-story height and complexity
3Trim and accessories are itemized separately for transparency
4Removal and disposal costs are clearly stated upfront
5Payment schedule protects both contractor and homeowner

Common Siding Project Types

Common items and services you might bill for

Full House Vinyl Siding

Old siding removal and disposal
Wall sheathing inspection and repairs
House wrap or weather barrier installation
Vinyl siding panels (calculate squares with waste)
Outside and inside corner posts
J-channel around all openings
Starter strips at foundation
Soffit and fascia replacement
Trim around windows and doors
Caulking and weatherproofing

Fiber Cement Siding Installation

Removal of existing siding
Wall prep and flashing updates
Weather-resistant barrier installation
Fiber cement planks or panels
Corner trim boards (fiber cement or PVC)
Window and door trim installation
Specialized cutting equipment rental
Caulking with high-quality sealants
Priming and painting (if not prefinished)
Experienced crew labor (fiber cement requires skill)

Partial Siding Replacement

Remove damaged sections only
Match existing siding style and color
Replace damaged sheathing underneath
New siding panels for affected areas
Blend trim with existing installation
Touch-up painting or staining
Caulking and weatherproofing
Color matching fee (if discontinued product)
Disposal of removed materials

Commercial Building Siding

Large-scale material ordering and delivery
Scaffolding or lift equipment rental
Metal or fiber cement panel systems
Structural attachment and framing
Insulation and thermal barriers
Commercial-grade flashing systems
Fire-rated materials and installation
Building code compliance and permits
Extended warranty documentation

Siding Estimating Best Practices

Best practices for siding estimates include accurate wall measurements, appropriate waste factors, wall condition inspection, and transparent communication with clients about scope and pricing.

📏

Measure Each Wall Section

Measure height and width of each wall separately. Account for gables, dormers, and architectural features. Use a laser measure for accuracy on tall walls. Never estimate square footage from blueprints alone.

📦

Add Appropriate Waste Factor

Include 10-15% waste for vinyl and fiber cement, 15-20% for wood siding. Complex houses with many angles need higher waste allowances. Order extra material for future repairs.

🔍

Inspect Wall Condition Thoroughly

Remove a small section of existing siding to check sheathing condition. Rotten or damaged sheathing adds significant cost. Document findings with photos and adjust estimate accordingly.

🎨

Show Physical Material Samples

Bring actual siding samples to the estimate appointment. Colors look different in person than in photos or online. Let clients feel the texture and thickness of different materials.

💰

Account for Hidden Costs

Include disposal fees, permit costs, scaffolding rental, and unexpected repairs. Budget for wall repairs discovered during removal. These forgotten items destroy profit margins.

📞

Follow Up Within 48 Hours

Contact clients quickly after sending the estimate. Answer questions, address concerns, and schedule a decision timeline. Speed and responsiveness win jobs against competitors.

Siding Calculation Reference Guide

Essential formulas and conversion factors for accurate siding estimates.

📐

Square Footage & Material Calculations

Accurate measurements are the foundation of profitable siding estimates. Use these formulas for common calculations.

Wall Square Footage

Square Feet = (Height × Width) - Window/Door Area

1Measure wall height and width in feet
2Multiply height × width for gross square footage
3Measure and subtract windows, doors, garage doors
4Repeat for each wall section
5Add all sections for total square footage

Siding Squares Needed

Squares = (Total Sq Ft × 1.10) ÷ 100

1Calculate total wall square footage
2Multiply by 1.10 to add 10% waste factor
3Divide by 100 (one square = 100 sq ft)
4Round up to nearest half square
5Add extra for complex cuts and future repairs

Trim & Accessories

Linear Feet = Perimeter + Window/Door Openings

1Measure total house perimeter for starter strip
2Count corners (inside and outside)
3Measure around each window and door for J-channel
4Calculate soffit and fascia linear footage
5Add 5-10% waste for cuts

💵

Pricing & Markup Guidelines

Industry-standard markup rates ensure your siding business remains profitable while staying competitive.

Siding Material Markup

30-50%

Standard markup on siding panels and planks. Higher markup on specialty materials, lower on commodity vinyl. You provide sourcing, handling, and warranty.

•Vinyl siding: 30-40% markup
•Fiber cement: 35-45% markup
•Wood siding: 40-50% markup
•Metal siding: 35-45% markup

Trim & Accessory Markup

40-60%

Higher markup on trim, corners, and accessories due to handling and waste. These items have lower price transparency than panels.

•Corner posts: 50-60% markup
•J-channel and trim: 45-55% markup
•Soffit and fascia: 40-50% markup
•Caulking and supplies: 50-70% markup

Labor Billing Rate

2.5-3x Wage

Your billing rate must cover wages, taxes, insurance, equipment, overhead, and profit.

•Calculate true employee cost (wages + 25-30% burden)
•Add equipment cost allocation
•Add overhead recovery (truck, fuel, office)
•Add profit margin (15-25%)

📊

Labor Time Estimates

Average installation times by material type and house complexity. Adjust for your crew's actual performance.

Labor Hours per Square (100 sq ft)

Vinyl Siding

6-8 hours per square for standard installation

Add time for complex cuts, two-story height, or detailed trim work

Fiber Cement Siding

8-12 hours per square for installation

Requires specialized cutting tools and experienced crew

Wood Siding

10-14 hours per square for installation

Includes cutting, fitting, and initial staining or priming

Old Siding Removal

2-4 hours per square for removal and disposal

Asbestos or lead paint adds significant time and cost

House Wrap Installation

1-2 hours per square for weather barrier

Essential step that protects wall sheathing from moisture

📝 Remember

These are industry guidelines. Track your actual costs and production rates to build estimates specific to your business, crew skill level, and local market conditions.

Why Use This Siding Estimate Template

Move beyond templates and transform your invoicing workflow

🏆

Win More Jobs

Professional estimates with clear breakdowns build client confidence. Show homeowners you run a legitimate business that prices work accurately and transparently.

💰

Protect Your Margins

Stop losing money because you forgot disposal fees, wall repairs, or underestimated labor hours. The template prompts you to capture every cost that impacts profitability.

⚡

Save Hours Each Week

Create estimates in 20-30 minutes instead of hours. Reuse your pricing for similar projects. Spend more time installing siding and less time doing paperwork.

🤝

Reduce Disputes

Detailed line items set clear expectations. Clients know exactly what they get. Change orders for hidden damage are documented. Everyone stays on the same page.

✨

Look Like a Pro

First impressions matter. Polished estimates separate you from competitors handing out scribbled notes or verbal quotes that lead to misunderstandings and lost deposits.

📈

Scale Your Business

Consistent estimating processes let you train employees, compare job profitability, and make data-driven decisions about which siding types and project sizes to focus on.

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Frequently Asked Questions

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