Consumers have access to a number of different wood species in cladding a house. Wood siding is one of the cheapest and easiest to install types available. According to Cost Helper, installing 1,250 square feet of plywood siding can cost up to $5,000 as of August 2010; yellow pine can cost up to $7,500; fir or spruce can cost up to $8,500; and redwood or cedar can cost up to $10,000. Wood siding requires a lot of regular maintenance, including painting or staining and treatments to discourage insect infestation, mildew and algae growth.
Vinyl siding can be purchased in different thicknesses. Typical vinyl siding thicknesses range from between .035 inches to .055 inches. In general, thicker vinyl siding offers higher levels of quality. Thin vinyl siding is more prone to sagging and cracking than thick vinyl siding. A strong gust of wind can rip thin vinyl siding right off a home. Cost Helper claims vinyl siding can be professionally installed as of August 2010 for up to $7 per square foot.
Metal siding like aluminum siding is relatively durable and requires little regular maintenance as years pass. However, metal siding is prone to denting and can be quite difficult to repair. Metal siding is one of the cheapest types of siding available as of August 2010; professionally installing aluminum siding can cost the consumer up to $3.50 per square foot.
Mason siding includes brick, stone and stucco siding. Mason sidings are the most durable types of siding available to consumers; they require very little regular maintenance. Brick and stone siding are quite burn- and rot-resistant, according to Luxury Housing Trends. Mason siding will not fade in excessive sun exposure. All types of mason siding offer exceptional thermal insulation. Only professional masons should attempt mason siding installation projects. As of August 2010, according to Luxury Housing Trends, professionals can install brick siding for up to $12 per square foot. Brick veneer siding is imitation brick that can be installed for up to $8 per square foot, according to Home Tips. Brick veneer siding is less durable than real brick, but still more durable than most other types of siding. Cost Helper claims that stucco siding can be professionally installed for up to $9 per square foot. Unfortunately, stucco siding stains easily, is porous and relatively brittle.