How Much Does Wood Siding Cost for a Whole House?
Wood siding is often chosen for its natural appearance and traditional character. Materials such as cedar and redwood are commonly used, offering a look that many homeowners prefer over manufactured alternatives. While wood siding can add visual appeal, it typically comes with higher upfront cost and ongoing maintenance requirements. Below is a breakdown of what it costs to install wood siding on a typical home using clear assumptions and simple math.
What this article covers
This article focuses on:
Residential wood siding
A 1,000 square foot home footprint
Standard wall height and layout
Mid-range wood siding materials
Professional installation
It does not include exotic hardwoods, decorative shingles, or specialty architectural patterns that can significantly increase cost.
How siding square footage is calculated
Siding is priced by exterior wall square footage, not interior floor space.
For consistency with other siding articles, this example assumes:
A 1,000 sq ft single-story home
Average wall height
Minimal architectural complexity
This typically results in approximately:
1,800 square feet of siding coverage
All calculations below use this figure.
Wood siding material cost
Wood siding pricing varies by species, profile, and grade. Cedar is one of the most common choices for residential applications.
A realistic mid-range wood siding material cost is:
$7 per square foot
For 1,800 sq ft of siding:
1,800 × $7 = $12,600 in material cost
Higher-grade or specialty wood siding can increase this cost.
Installation cost
Installing wood siding requires careful fastening, spacing, and finishing. Labor costs are typically higher than vinyl and similar to fiber cement.
A realistic average installation cost is:
$6 per square foot
For 1,800 sq ft of siding:
1,800 × $6 = $10,800 in installation labor
Total upfront cost for a whole house
Combining material and installation:
Material: $12,600
Installation: $10,800
Total upfront cost: $23,400
This represents a typical cost to install wood siding on a modest-sized home using mid-range materials and professional installation.
Long-term cost considerations
Wood siding requires ongoing maintenance to protect it from the elements.
Needs periodic painting or staining
Vulnerable to moisture and insects if not maintained
Can last 20–40 years with proper care
Maintenance costs can significantly affect long-term ownership cost.
What affects wood siding cost
Total cost can vary based on:
Wood species and grade
Board style and thickness
Number of cuts and seams
Home height and layout
Regional labor rates
Homes with complex designs or multiple stories will increase labor cost.
What this does not include
The costs above do not include:
Removal of existing siding
Rot or sheathing repairs
Insulation upgrades
Premium stains or finishes
These items can increase total project cost.
The bottom line
Installing wood siding on a typical home with approximately 1,800 square feet of exterior wall area usually costs around $23,400 upfront using mid-range materials and professional installation. Wood siding offers a natural appearance but comes with higher maintenance requirements compared to many alternative siding materials.
For a broader overview of siding options and how their costs compare, see Types of House Siding and What They Cost.