Exterior Siding Calculator

Understanding Siding Options

Different siding materials offer varying benefits in terms of durability, maintenance, and cost.

  • Material Types Each siding material has unique characteristics and installation requirements.
  • Coverage Area Total wall area affects material quantity and installation costs.
  • Quality Levels Different grades affect durability and cost.
  • Installation Method Affects both labor costs and project timeline.

Material Comparison

Vinyl Siding

Affordable, low maintenance, wide color selection.

Fiber Cement

Durable, fire-resistant, looks like wood.

Wood Siding

Classic look, natural material, requires maintenance.

Metal Siding

Long-lasting, low maintenance, modern appearance.

Material Properties

  • Physical Characteristics R-value: 0.5-5.0/inch. Water absorption: 1-18%. Impact resistance: 40-160 in·lb. Thermal expansion: 0.2-8.0×10⁻⁵/°F. Flame spread: 25-200.
  • Durability Metrics Wind resistance: 110-180 mph. UV stability: 10-30 years. Moisture resistance: 0.1-5%. Salt spray: 1000-3000 hrs. Freeze-thaw cycles: 50-300.
  • Performance Ratings Weather resistance: Class A-D. Impact rating: Level 1-4. Fire rating: Class A-C. Wind load: -30 to +60 psf. Thermal movement: ±0.25"/10ft.

Installation Standards

  • Fastening Requirements Nail spacing: 12-24". Penetration depth: 1.25-1.75". Edge distance: 0.75-1.25". Wind zone adjustment: ±25%. Expansion gap: 1/8-1/4".
  • Weather Barrier WRB overlap: 4-6". Flashing depth: 4". Air gap: 1/4-3/4". Drainage efficiency: >90%. Vapor permeance: 5-50 perms.
  • Support System Stud spacing: 16-24" o.c. Sheathing thickness: 7/16-3/4". Furring depth: 1/4-1.5". Corner reinforcement: 4-6". Structural rating: 20-30 psf.

Environmental Factors

  • Climate Considerations Temperature range: -40 to +180°F. Humidity exposure: 20-90%. Solar reflectance: 0.2-0.8. Rainfall intensity: 0-12"/hr. Wind exposure: B-D.
  • Energy Performance Thermal bridging: 0.02-0.15. Air infiltration: 0.1-0.3 cfm/ft². Solar heat gain: 0.2-0.7. Condensation resistance: 45-65. U-factor: 0.05-0.15.
  • Sustainability Metrics Recycled content: 0-95%. VOC emissions: <50 g/L. Life expectancy: 20-50 years. Carbon footprint: 2-15 kg CO₂/ft². Material waste: 5-15%.

Maintenance Requirements

  • Cleaning Protocol Frequency: 1-3 years. Pressure rating: 1200-2500 psi. Chemical pH: 6-8. Temperature limit: 160°F. Application rate: 150-300 ft²/hr.
  • Inspection Schedule Visual checks: semi-annual. Moisture testing: annual. Fastener inspection: 2-3 years. Sealant review: 3-5 years. Coating assessment: 5-7 years.
  • Repair Standards Touch-up area: <2 ft². Replacement criteria: >10% damage. Color match: ΔE <2.0. Joint repair: 100% fill. Fastener torque: ±20%.

Installation Considerations

  • Preparation Wall preparation and repair before installation.
  • Weather Barriers Proper moisture protection and insulation.
  • Trim Details Corner pieces, J-channels, and finishing elements.
  • Maintenance Regular cleaning and inspection requirements.

Cost Factors

  • Material Quality Higher grades offer better durability and appearance.
  • Installation Complexity Complex designs increase labor costs.
  • Additional Materials Underlayment, fasteners, and trim pieces.
  • Waste Factor Account for cutting waste and extras.