Siding is priced by the square foot of wall, not by the square foot of house — which is why two homes with the same floor area can quote very differently. Here is what published Massachusetts and Boston-area data shows, by material.
Siding cost by material
Installed siding is commonly reported at $4 to $13 per square foot nationally, working out to roughly $10,000 to $32,500 on a 2,500-square-foot home. Boston-area vinyl figures run higher, reported at $6 to $24 per square foot, which on a median 1,700-square-foot home lands between about $10,200 and $40,800.
| Material | Installed range | Notes for New England |
|---|---|---|
| Vinyl | $4 – $12 / sq ft | Best value, no painting, handles freeze-thaw well. Quality varies a lot by gauge. |
| Engineered wood | $6 – $13 / sq ft | Wood look with better stability; needs the cut ends sealed properly. |
| Fiber-cement | $8 – $16 / sq ft | Very durable and fire-resistant, heavier to install, holds paint for years. |
| Cedar shingle | $9 – $20 / sq ft | Classic New England look; highest maintenance and the most labour-intensive. |
| 2,500 sq ft home, typical | $10,000 – $32,500 | Whole-house figure across common materials. |
What tear-off uncovers — and why it belongs in the budget
On any New England house over thirty years old, the wall behind the siding is the real variable. Water gets in at windows, at the roof-wall intersection and behind failed flashing, and it does its damage quietly. Rotten sheathing, damaged framing around openings and missing or degraded weather barrier are all common findings once the old siding comes off.
A quote that contains no allowance for repairs found at tear-off is not a cheaper quote — it is an incomplete one. Ask what the per-sheet rate is for replacing sheathing, and what the process is if rot is found. We put that number in the estimate up front.
What else changes the price
- Number of storeys and roof pitch — staging and access drive labour more than most homeowners expect.
- How much trim, soffit and fascia is included. Wrapping trim in aluminium or replacing it in PVC is a real line item.
- Window and door count. Every opening is a flashing detail and a cut.
- Whether house wrap and insulation go on behind the new siding — worth doing while the wall is open.
- Disposal. Old siding is heavy, and on older homes it may need testing before removal.
Does siding replacement need a permit in Massachusetts?
Yes, plan on it. The Massachusetts exempt-work list covers minor finish work and small detached structures — it does not exempt re-siding a house. Expect a building permit and an inspection that looks at the weather barrier and any structural repair found during tear-off. We file it and meet the inspector.
Where these figures come from
- HomeGuide — House Siding Cost
- Angi — Vinyl Siding Installation Cost in Boston, MA
- This Old House — Siding Replacement Cost
Published market data for Massachusetts and Greater Boston, not Waterfront Construction pricing. Your own project is quoted from a site visit — get a free estimate.
Frequently asked questions
How long does siding installation take?+
New siding on an average home usually takes about 1–2 weeks, depending on size, number of stories, and how much sheathing repair is needed once the old siding comes off.
Is fiber-cement siding worth it over vinyl?+
Fiber-cement is extremely durable, fire-resistant, and has a premium painted look, while quality vinyl is low-maintenance and budget-friendly. Both hold up well to New England weather — the right pick depends on your look and maintenance preference.
How do I know if I need new siding or just a repair?+
Isolated damage can be repaired; widespread cracking, warping, rot, soft spots, or needing to repaint every few years point to full replacement. We'll tell you honestly which one your home needs.
Siding Installation & Replacement in Northborough & MetroWest, MA →
Boost curb appeal and protect your home with premium vinyl, fiber-cement, and engineered siding built for New England winters.
See our siding services →Ready to start your project?
Free, no-obligation estimate — we reply within one business day.
