Replacing exterior siding in 2026: How much does it cost?

What’s the average cost to replace exterior siding?

It’s important to be aware that prices vary depending on the material chosen, the complexity of the project and the labour required. Here are the average costs of several types of exterior siding, according to our internal data.

Type of siding	Average cost* (including materials and labour)
Vinyl	$12–$15 / sq. ft.
Aluminum	$17–$23 / sq. ft.
Engineered wood (CanExel)	$17–$23 / sq. ft.
Fibre cement	$35–$40 / sq. ft.
Acrylic	$40–$45 / sq. ft.
Steel	$35–$40 / sq. ft.
Torrefied wood	$25–$30 / sq. ft.
Brick	$55–$65 / sq. ft.

* These figures are provided for information purposes and come from internal sources. The prices listed above are for a single-family bungalow and do not include demolition, insulation, dumpster, scaffolding or other costs that may be required depending on the project.

Materials for every taste

If you’d like to refresh the look of your home, there’s a wide range of materials to choose from, including eco-friendly siding. Many come in a variety of colours and styles so you can choose the one best suited to your home. In our article on the different types of exterior siding, you can also learn about the pros and cons of each option.

For now, let’s look at the main materials available on the market to help you make an informed decision.

Vinyl

Vinyl combines quality and durability. It’s lightweight, generally easy to install and maintain, and comes in a wide variety of colours, making it easy to match different architectural styles.

Be aware that it can fade over time and is less durable than other, more robust materials. When exposed to strong winds or hail, it’s also prone to cracking. The average cost ranges from $12 to $15 per square foot.

Aluminum

Aluminum is known for its durability and resistance to the elements. However, it can be susceptible to corrosion under certain conditions, particularly with prolonged exposure to moisture or salty air. Also, its surface can be damaged by hard impacts, resulting in scratches or dents. The average cost ranges from $17 to $23 per square foot.

Engineered wood

Engineered wood is ideal if you want something that looks great and has superior insulating properties. However, this material requires regular maintenance to prevent rot and insect damage. The cost of engineered wood ranges from $17 to $23 per square foot.

Fibre cement

Fibre cement holds up well against the elements and is resistant to insect damage. It gives homes an elegant look and comes in a wide variety of textures and colours. However, it’s heavier than other materials. The cost ranges from $35 to $40 per square foot.

Acrylic

Acrylic is another modern material, available in multiple colours and textures. It’s generally durable and weather resistant. The cost ranges from $40 to $45 per square foot.

Steel

Steel siding is known for its durability and modern look. It’s also highly resistant to insect damage, making it an attractive option for homeowners. Due to its galvanized composition, it offers superior protection compared to aluminum.

However, if its finish gets damaged, steel can become susceptible to corrosion, making it necessary to do regular surface inspections. Its average cost ranges from $35 to $40 per square foot.

Torrefied wood

Torrefied wood adds aesthetic appeal, in addition to being weather-resistant. Like all wood siding, it requires regular maintenance to prevent rot and insect damage. Its cost ranges from $25 to $30 per square foot.

Brick

Brick is a classic choice for siding. It’s durable and attractive and requires little maintenance. The cost of brick ranges from $55 to $65 per square foot, depending on the quality of the material and the complexity of the installation.

Need some inspiration?

Not sure which type of siding to choose? We’ve put together some exterior siding trends that you can peruse for inspiration and to help you pinpoint your preferences.

It can also be helpful to explore facade renovation projects to visualize how changing the siding will affect your home’s overall appearance. After all, the facade makes a visual statement about your home. The texture, colour and material you choose can influence your home’s character and even the perception of its value.

Take a look at this video, which includes practical tips and aspects to consider for your home’s facade:

Costs involved in replacing your siding

When planning to replace your exterior siding, it’s also important to consider the related costs. The above table shows the turnkey prices for the siding portion, but there may be other costs as well.

For example, you may need to replace the waterproofing membranes if problems are discovered in the underlying layers. In fact, it’s essential to inspect the wall’s inner layers (particularly the condition of the wood and insulation) to ensure that no additional repairs are needed.

Other exterior components may also require upgrades, which can sometimes increase the cost:

• Soffits

• Fascia

• Eavestroughs

• Exterior lighting

• Windows and doors

Remember to budget for demolition costs, debris removal and transport and waste management.

Lastly, if you’re planning to replace a lightweight material like vinyl with a heavy material like brick, the existing foundation may not be deep enough to support the masonry. In that case, an engineering plan is recommended.

Don’t forget about the insulation

Before installing the new siding, be sure to consider your home’s insulation. Since the old siding needs to be removed, this is the perfect time to:

• Add a new air barrier

• Check for water leaks

• Upgrade the flashing around the windows and doors

• Improve wall drainage

Exterior insulation is generally easier to upgrade than interior insulation, since work can be done directly on the building envelope without affecting the living space. Adding continuous insulation on the exterior can improve energy performance and keep your walls comfortably warm in the winter. It also reduces the risk of condensation.

According to Natural Resources Canada, better insulation reduces heat loss and decreases the energy required to heat or cool a home. That means less energy use and lower energy bills, especially in cold climates like Quebec.

Prevention and maintenance

If your siding is still in good condition and you want to keep it, be sure to maintain it to maximize its lifespan and avoid potential problems. A visual inspection and annual cleaning are often sufficient for most types of siding. This will allow you to detect signs of deterioration.

Some materials, despite their durability, still require special attention. With brick siding, for example, the mortar joints may deteriorate over time. You shouldn’t wait to see bulging brick before taking action, as this deformation could cause a partial wall collapse. As soon as signs of wear appear, it’s best to have the work done by a qualified mason.

Is painting your brick a smart way to save money?

If your brickwork is crumbling and you want to hide the damage, be aware that painting it is generally not advisable. Brick is a naturally porous material: it absorbs exterior moisture and allows interior moisture to escape.

Once painted, it becomes non-porous and can no longer breathe properly. As a result, moisture becomes trapped in the wall, potentially making the damage worse. So painting the brick doesn’t correct the problem; it temporarily masks a deeper one.

Finding an exterior siding contractor

Whether you’re looking to replace existing siding or install siding on a new build, our team can help by recommending exterior siding contractors. Here’s how it works:

1. Contractor verification

Before providing you with up to three contractor quotes, we perform several checks on the contractors and their services:

• Creditworthiness

• Criminal background

• Validity of their licences

• Reputation with suppliers

• References from our clients

Our goal is to reduce the risk associated with your renovations and give you peace of mind.

2. Personalized support

When you contact us, you’ll speak with a renovation advisor who will:

• Get quotes from up to three contractors

• Help you understand the quotes

• Guide you through your project

You can choose the quote that’s best for you based on the selected profiles and your budget.

3. A free, no-obligation service

You’ll receive comprehensive support, drawing on thousands of completed renovation projects, all at no cost and with no obligation. You only pay for the services of the company you choose. To request your quotes, please complete our online form: