Free Siding Estimate Templates (2026) - Download Now
A strong siding estimate wins the job and protects your bottom line. A weak one invites scope creep, price disputes, and lost profit.
Most siding contractors are great at the installation work. The bottleneck is sitting down after the inspection to build a detailed, professional estimate. You measure the walls, note the window and door count, check the condition of the existing siding and sheathing, then spend an hour or two pricing it all out. By the time you email the estimate, the homeowner may already have a competing bid.
These three templates fix that problem. Each one covers a different siding material with realistic line items, tear-off costs, trim details, and markup formulas you can adjust for your local market. Copy them, plug in your numbers, and start closing more jobs.
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How to Use These Templates
Each template is organized into sections: tear-off, materials, trim and accessories, labor, and overhead/profit. Here is how to get the most out of them:
- Measure the exterior walls. Calculate total square footage by multiplying wall height by perimeter length. Subtract window and door openings.
- Inspect the existing siding. Note the material, number of layers, and condition of the sheathing underneath.
- Count windows, doors, corners, and trim pieces. These drive accessory costs and labor time.
- Adjust unit costs to match your local supplier pricing and labor rates.
- Apply your overhead and profit percentages to the subtotal.
- Add notes explaining scope, timeline, material warranty, and exclusions.
The unit costs shown are mid-range estimates for the U.S. market in 2026. Your area may run higher or lower. Always verify pricing with your supplier before sending a live estimate.
Template 1: Vinyl Siding Estimate
This template covers a full vinyl siding job on a 2,000 sq ft home (approximately 1,500 sq ft of siding area after subtracting windows and doors). Includes tear-off of existing siding, new vinyl siding, trim, and soffit/fascia.
Tear-Off (Existing Siding Removal)
| Line Item | Quantity | Unit | Unit Cost | Total |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Remove existing vinyl siding | 1,500 | sq ft | $0.75 | $1,125.00 |
| Remove old house wrap/felt | 1,500 | sq ft | $0.20 | $300.00 |
| Inspect and repair sheathing | 1 | lot | $350.00 | $350.00 |
| Dumpster rental (20-yard) | 1 | each | $450.00 | $450.00 |
| Tear-Off Subtotal | $2,225.00 |
Materials
| Line Item | Quantity | Unit | Unit Cost | Total |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Vinyl siding (double 4”, mid-grade) | 1,650 | sq ft | $2.25 | $3,712.50 |
| House wrap (Tyvek or similar) | 1,650 | sq ft | $0.30 | $495.00 |
| Vinyl starter strip | 120 | lin ft | $0.85 | $102.00 |
| Vinyl J-channel | 350 | lin ft | $0.75 | $262.50 |
| Vinyl corner posts (outside) | 8 | each | $18.00 | $144.00 |
| Vinyl corner posts (inside) | 4 | each | $14.00 | $56.00 |
| Vinyl undersill trim | 100 | lin ft | $0.65 | $65.00 |
| Window/door trim (lineals) | 16 | sets | $22.00 | $352.00 |
| Vinyl soffit panels (vented) | 400 | sq ft | $2.50 | $1,000.00 |
| Aluminum fascia cover (6”) | 200 | lin ft | $3.25 | $650.00 |
| Aluminum drip cap | 16 | pieces | $4.00 | $64.00 |
| Galvanized siding nails | 3 | boxes | $28.00 | $84.00 |
| Caulk (paintable) | 12 | tubes | $6.00 | $72.00 |
| Materials Subtotal | $7,059.00 |
Labor
| Task | Quantity | Unit | Unit Cost | Total |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Install house wrap | 1,500 | sq ft | $0.40 | $600.00 |
| Install vinyl siding | 1,500 | sq ft | $2.50 | $3,750.00 |
| Install trim (J-channel, corners, undersill) | 1 | lot | $600.00 | $600.00 |
| Install window/door trim | 16 | openings | $45.00 | $720.00 |
| Install soffit panels | 400 | sq ft | $2.00 | $800.00 |
| Install fascia cover | 200 | lin ft | $2.50 | $500.00 |
| Caulk and seal all penetrations | 1 | lot | $250.00 | $250.00 |
| Final cleanup | 1 | lot | $200.00 | $200.00 |
| Labor Subtotal | $7,420.00 |
Equipment and Other Costs
| Item | Quantity | Unit | Unit Cost | Total |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Scaffolding rental | 1 | week | $350.00 | $350.00 |
| Brake/bender rental (fascia) | 2 | days | $55.00 | $110.00 |
| Permit fee | 1 | each | $175.00 | $175.00 |
| Material delivery | 1 | each | $100.00 | $100.00 |
| Equipment Subtotal | $735.00 |
Summary
| Amount | |
|---|---|
| Tear-Off | $2,225.00 |
| Materials | $7,059.00 |
| Labor | $7,420.00 |
| Equipment and other | $735.00 |
| Direct Cost Subtotal | $17,439.00 |
| Overhead (15%) | $2,615.85 |
| Profit (12%) | $2,406.58 |
| Total Estimate | $22,461.43 |
Tips for This Template
- The 10% waste factor is built into the material quantity (1,650 sq ft ordered for 1,500 sq ft of wall area). Add more for homes with complex gable ends and lots of window cutouts.
- Always specify the siding manufacturer, product line, and color. Homeowners who compare bids want to see that you are using real product names, not “mid-grade vinyl.”
- Soffit and fascia work is where many siding estimates fall short. If you skip it, the homeowner will have mismatched soffit next to brand-new siding. Address it in every estimate.
- Vinyl siding expands and contracts with temperature. Leave a 1/4-inch gap at all trim channels and do not nail tight. This is a quality detail worth mentioning in your scope of work.
Template 2: Fiber Cement Siding (James Hardie) Estimate
This template covers a fiber cement re-side on a 2,200 sq ft home (approximately 1,700 sq ft of siding area). James Hardie is the dominant brand in fiber cement, and homeowners often request it by name. This is a premium product with higher material and labor costs.
Tear-Off (Existing Siding Removal)
| Line Item | Quantity | Unit | Unit Cost | Total |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Remove existing wood/vinyl siding | 1,700 | sq ft | $0.85 | $1,445.00 |
| Remove old house wrap | 1,700 | sq ft | $0.20 | $340.00 |
| Inspect and repair sheathing/OSB | 1 | lot | $500.00 | $500.00 |
| Lead paint test (pre-1978 homes) | 1 | each | $45.00 | $45.00 |
| Dumpster rental (20-yard) | 1 | each | $450.00 | $450.00 |
| Tear-Off Subtotal | $2,780.00 |
Materials
| Line Item | Quantity | Unit | Unit Cost | Total |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HardiePlank lap siding (8.25”, primed) | 1,870 | sq ft | $4.50 | $8,415.00 |
| HardieWrap weather barrier | 1,870 | sq ft | $0.35 | $654.50 |
| HardieTrim boards (4/4 x 4”) | 300 | lin ft | $3.25 | $975.00 |
| HardieTrim boards (4/4 x 6”) | 200 | lin ft | $4.50 | $900.00 |
| HardieTrim corner boards (3/4 x 3.5”) | 16 | pieces | $28.00 | $448.00 |
| HardieSoffit panels (vented) | 400 | sq ft | $4.25 | $1,700.00 |
| Aluminum fascia (custom bent, 8”) | 200 | lin ft | $4.50 | $900.00 |
| Flashing (kick-out, step, head) | 1 | lot | $350.00 | $350.00 |
| Stainless steel siding nails | 4 | boxes | $38.00 | $152.00 |
| Caulk (Hardie-approved) | 16 | tubes | $8.00 | $128.00 |
| Touch-up paint (ColorPlus matching) | 2 | quarts | $35.00 | $70.00 |
| Materials Subtotal | $14,692.50 |
Labor
| Task | Quantity | Unit | Unit Cost | Total |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Install weather barrier | 1,700 | sq ft | $0.45 | $765.00 |
| Install fiber cement siding | 1,700 | sq ft | $4.25 | $7,225.00 |
| Install HardieTrim (windows, doors, corners) | 1 | lot | $1,800.00 | $1,800.00 |
| Install soffit panels | 400 | sq ft | $2.75 | $1,100.00 |
| Install fascia | 200 | lin ft | $3.00 | $600.00 |
| Install flashing | 1 | lot | $450.00 | $450.00 |
| Caulk and seal | 1 | lot | $400.00 | $400.00 |
| Paint (if not ColorPlus prefinished) | 1,700 | sq ft | $1.50 | $2,550.00 |
| Final cleanup | 1 | lot | $250.00 | $250.00 |
| Labor Subtotal | $15,140.00 |
Equipment and Other Costs
| Item | Quantity | Unit | Unit Cost | Total |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Scaffolding rental | 2 | weeks | $350.00 | $700.00 |
| Fiber cement saw (dust-reducing) | 1 | week | $125.00 | $125.00 |
| Brake/bender rental (fascia) | 3 | days | $55.00 | $165.00 |
| Permit fee | 1 | each | $200.00 | $200.00 |
| Material delivery (boom truck) | 1 | each | $200.00 | $200.00 |
| Equipment Subtotal | $1,390.00 |
Summary
| Amount | |
|---|---|
| Tear-Off | $2,780.00 |
| Materials | $14,692.50 |
| Labor | $15,140.00 |
| Equipment and other | $1,390.00 |
| Direct Cost Subtotal | $34,002.50 |
| Overhead (14%) | $4,760.35 |
| Profit (12%) | $4,651.54 |
| Total Estimate | $43,414.39 |
Tips for This Template
- James Hardie products require specific installation methods. Use only Hardie-approved fasteners (stainless steel or hot-dipped galvanized) and caulks. Using the wrong materials can void the warranty.
- Fiber cement is heavy and creates silica dust when cut. Budget for a dust-reducing saw and proper respirators. OSHA takes silica exposure seriously.
- ColorPlus (factory-prefinished) Hardie siding costs more per plank but eliminates the on-site painting line item. Run the numbers both ways for your customer. Factory finish often comes out cheaper when you factor in paint labor, material, and the extra time on scaffolding.
- The paint line item ($2,550) assumes field-primed siding that needs two coats on site. If you use ColorPlus, remove this line and add approximately $1.25/sq ft to the material cost instead.
- Fiber cement siding jobs take longer than vinyl. Plan for 7-10 working days on a full re-side vs. 4-5 days for vinyl. Your estimate should reflect the longer timeline.
Template 3: Wood Siding Estimate
This template covers a wood siding installation on a 1,400 sq ft cabin or craftsman-style home (approximately 1,100 sq ft of siding area). Wood siding is a premium product that appeals to homeowners who want a natural look. It requires more maintenance than vinyl or fiber cement, but many buyers are willing to pay for the appearance.
Tear-Off (Existing Siding Removal)
| Line Item | Quantity | Unit | Unit Cost | Total |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Remove existing siding (wood/vinyl) | 1,100 | sq ft | $0.90 | $990.00 |
| Remove old building paper/wrap | 1,100 | sq ft | $0.20 | $220.00 |
| Inspect and repair sheathing | 1 | lot | $400.00 | $400.00 |
| Dumpster rental (15-yard) | 1 | each | $400.00 | $400.00 |
| Tear-Off Subtotal | $2,010.00 |
Materials
| Line Item | Quantity | Unit | Unit Cost | Total |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cedar lap siding (1x8, clear grade) | 1,210 | sq ft | $6.50 | $7,865.00 |
| House wrap (breathable) | 1,210 | sq ft | $0.30 | $363.00 |
| Cedar corner boards (1x4) | 100 | lin ft | $3.75 | $375.00 |
| Cedar trim boards (1x6) | 200 | lin ft | $4.50 | $900.00 |
| Cedar fascia boards (1x8) | 160 | lin ft | $5.25 | $840.00 |
| Cedar soffit (T&G, vented) | 300 | sq ft | $5.00 | $1,500.00 |
| Stainless steel siding nails | 3 | boxes | $42.00 | $126.00 |
| Exterior wood primer | 4 | gallons | $45.00 | $180.00 |
| Exterior paint/stain (2 coats) | 8 | gallons | $55.00 | $440.00 |
| Caulk (paintable exterior) | 12 | tubes | $7.00 | $84.00 |
| Flashing (step, head, kick-out) | 1 | lot | $275.00 | $275.00 |
| Materials Subtotal | $12,948.00 |
Labor
| Task | Quantity | Unit | Unit Cost | Total |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Install house wrap | 1,100 | sq ft | $0.40 | $440.00 |
| Install cedar lap siding | 1,100 | sq ft | $4.50 | $4,950.00 |
| Install corner boards and trim | 1 | lot | $1,200.00 | $1,200.00 |
| Install fascia boards | 160 | lin ft | $3.50 | $560.00 |
| Install soffit | 300 | sq ft | $3.00 | $900.00 |
| Install flashing | 1 | lot | $350.00 | $350.00 |
| Prime all surfaces | 1,100 | sq ft | $0.75 | $825.00 |
| Paint/stain (2 coats) | 1,100 | sq ft | $1.75 | $1,925.00 |
| Caulk and seal | 1 | lot | $300.00 | $300.00 |
| Final cleanup | 1 | lot | $200.00 | $200.00 |
| Labor Subtotal | $11,650.00 |
Equipment and Other Costs
| Item | Quantity | Unit | Unit Cost | Total |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Scaffolding rental | 2 | weeks | $350.00 | $700.00 |
| Miter saw (on site) | 0 | each | $0.00 | $0.00 |
| Permit fee | 1 | each | $175.00 | $175.00 |
| Material delivery | 1 | each | $125.00 | $125.00 |
| Equipment Subtotal | $1,000.00 |
Summary
| Amount | |
|---|---|
| Tear-Off | $2,010.00 |
| Materials | $12,948.00 |
| Labor | $11,650.00 |
| Equipment and other | $1,000.00 |
| Direct Cost Subtotal | $27,608.00 |
| Overhead (15%) | $4,141.20 |
| Profit (13%) | $4,127.40 |
| Total Estimate | $35,876.59 |
Tips for This Template
- Clear-grade cedar costs significantly more than knotty grades. Know what the homeowner wants before you price. The difference between clear and #2 knotty cedar can be $2-$3/sq ft in material alone.
- Wood siding must be primed on all six sides (front, back, edges, and ends) before installation. Many callbacks on wood siding come from skipping back-priming, which allows moisture to penetrate and causes warping. Include this in your scope of work notes.
- Stainless steel nails are more expensive than galvanized but will not leave rust streaks on cedar. The material premium is small compared to the cost of a callback for stained siding.
- Paint vs. stain is a homeowner preference, but it affects your labor line item. Semi-transparent stain is faster to apply but needs recoating every 3-5 years. Paint lasts 7-10 years but takes more prep. Discuss this during the estimate walkthrough.
- Wood siding on historic or custom homes can command premium pricing. These homeowners chose wood for a reason and are usually willing to pay for quality work.
Adjusting These Templates for Your Business
These templates are a starting point. Here is how to make them fit your specific operation:
Set Your Overhead Rate
Overhead covers insurance, vehicles, fuel, tools, office costs, marketing, and your own salary. Most siding companies run between 12% and 18% overhead. Calculate yours by dividing your total annual overhead costs by your annual revenue.
Set Your Profit Margin
Profit is what remains after all costs, including overhead. Target 10-15% net profit. Fiber cement and wood siding jobs can carry higher margins because they require more skill. Vinyl siding is more competitive on price, so margins tend to be tighter.
Account for Tear-Off Complexity
Not all tear-offs are equal. Removing one layer of vinyl over clean sheathing is simple. Removing two layers of wood clapboard with lead paint on a 1920s home is a completely different job. Always break tear-off into its own section and price based on what you actually see on the wall.
Track Job Costs After Completion
Compare your estimate to your actual costs on every job. This is the only way to calibrate your templates over time. Projul’s job costing tools track labor, materials, and expenses against each project so you can see exactly where your money went.
Common Mistakes That Cost Siding Contractors Money
Ignoring the condition behind the siding. You cannot see rotted sheathing, failed house wrap, or insect damage until the old siding comes off. Include a sheathing inspection and repair allowance on every estimate. Add a note: “Additional sheathing repair billed at $X per sheet if needed once tear-off is complete.”
Underestimating trim and accessory costs. J-channel, corner posts, undersill trim, starter strips, window casing, and fascia covers add up. On a vinyl job, accessories can run 25-30% of the siding material cost. On fiber cement, trim and flashing can be even higher. List every piece.
Skipping soffit and fascia. Homeowners who re-side their house expect the whole exterior to look new. If you bid siding only and the old aluminum soffit and peeling fascia are still showing, the homeowner will be disappointed. Address it in every estimate even if they decide not to include it.
Not accounting for two-story height. A two-story home requires scaffolding, more setup time, and slower production on the upper walls. If your template is based on single-story labor rates, you will lose money on every two-story job. Add a height premium or adjust your per-square-foot labor rate.
Forgetting flashing. Kick-out flashing, step flashing at roof-to-wall intersections, and head flashing above windows are required by code and prevent water damage. Missing these on your estimate means either eating the cost or skipping them on the install (which leads to water damage and liability).
Quoting field-primed fiber cement without including paint labor. Unfinished HardiePlank needs two coats of paint on site. That is $1.50-$2.25/sq ft in paint labor alone. If you quote material only and forget the paint line item, you just gave away thousands of dollars of labor.
What Every Siding Estimate Needs Beyond the Numbers
- Scope of work. “Remove existing vinyl siding on all four elevations. Install new James Hardie ColorPlus lap siding in Arctic White with matching HardieTrim at all windows, doors, and corners. Replace soffit with vented HardieSoffit and wrap fascia with custom-bent aluminum.”
- Material specifications. List the manufacturer, product name, color, and profile for every major material.
- Timeline. “Tear-off begins Day 1. Siding installation Days 3-8. Trim and detail work Days 9-10. Expected completion: 10 working days, weather permitting.”
- Payment terms. Your deposit, progress, and final payment schedule.
- Warranty. Manufacturer material warranty (Hardie offers 30 years on ColorPlus) and your workmanship warranty.
- Exclusions. “This estimate does not include interior insulation, window replacement, gutter installation, or structural framing repairs.”
- Expiration. 30 days is standard.
Frequently Asked Questions
Check the FAQ section above for answers to common questions about siding estimates, including markup percentages, tear-off pricing, waste factors, soffit and fascia decisions, and how often to update your template.
Start Sending Better Siding Estimates Today
These templates give you a solid foundation for vinyl, fiber cement, and wood siding projects. Customize them with your own pricing, add your company branding, and start sending professional estimates that close more jobs.
If you are ready to move beyond spreadsheets, Projul’s estimating features let you build, send, and track estimates from your phone or tablet. No per-user fees. Rated 9.8 out of 10 on G2. Schedule a live demo and see how it works for your crew.
📥 Get Your Free Estimate Templates
Download Projul’s free construction estimate templates, built by contractors, for contractors. Create professional estimates in minutes and win more jobs.
DISCLAIMER: We make no warranty of accuracy, timeliness, and completeness of the information presented on this website. Posts are subject to change without notice and cannot be considered financial advice.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much should I mark up a siding estimate?
Should I include tear-off as a separate line item on siding estimates?
How do I estimate siding waste factor?
Should I include soffit and fascia in my siding estimate?
How often should I update my siding estimate template pricing?
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