When it comes to siding replacement or installation, one of the first questions homeowners ask is, “How much siding do I need?” A siding and roof replacement contractor shares a simple guide to help you estimate how much siding your home needs.
Measure the Square Footage of Your Walls
The first step in calculating how much siding you need is to measure the exterior walls of your home. Start by measuring the height and width of each wall. Multiply these two dimensions to get the square footage for each wall. Don’t forget to subtract the areas of windows, doors, and any other openings, as they won’t need siding.
For example:
- If a wall is 20 feet wide and 12 feet tall, the total square footage of that wall would be 240 square feet (20 ft × 12 ft = 240 sq ft).
- If the wall has a window that’s 5 feet wide and 4 feet tall, subtract the area of the window (5 ft × 4 ft = 20 sq ft).
- The adjusted square footage for the wall would be 220 square feet (240 sq ft – 20 sq ft).
Add Up All Wall Measurements
After you’ve measured each wall, add up the square footage for each side of the house. For example, if you have four walls, calculate the square footage for each one and sum them up to get the total square footage of your exterior walls. For accurate estimations, partner with a trusted siding and roofing contractor.
Account for Extra Coverage (Waste Factor)
When ordering siding, it’s always a good idea to order a little extra material to account for cutting and fitting around windows, doors, and corners. A general rule of thumb is to add about 10% extra to your total square footage to cover any waste. For example, if your total square footage is 1,000 sq ft, add 100 sq ft for waste (1,000 sq ft × 0.10 = 100 sq ft), giving you 1,100 sq ft in total.
Consider the Type of Siding
Different types of siding come in different sizes, which will affect how much material you need. Below are some examples:
- Vinyl Siding: This is typically sold in panels of 12 to 20 feet in length. Each panel covers about 20 square feet.
- Wood or Fiber Cement Siding: These come in planks or boards, usually covering between 3 and 5 square feet per piece.
Be sure to ask your supplier about the specific coverage for the siding you’ve chosen.
Consult a Professional
If you’re unsure about how to measure or estimate the amount of siding you need, siding and roofing installation company Masters Roofing can help. Our team will assess your home’s dimensions, style, and unique features to provide an accurate estimate. Call (901) 871-7663 or fill out our online form to schedule an appointment. We serve homeowners in and around Memphis, TN.