How much does it cost to repair siding?

Reviewed by Adam Graham remodeling expert. Written by Fixr.com.

For decades, siding has been a viable external shell for any home or business. For many years, wood siding was the most popular siding option. This was typically a simple wood clapboard. However, vinyl and aluminum siding have become popular options that are easy to care for and maintain. Fiber cement is a product that lasts for years to come, is durable, and is easy to maintain.

The cost to repair a 100 sq.ft. section of damaged siding varies, depending on the material. The average range for a 100 sq.ft. repair is $100 to $1,700, with most buyers spending about $500 to repair 100 sq.ft. of wood siding. On the low end, repairing a crack in vinyl siding costs $50 in materials and labor. On the high end, stucco siding repair averages $5,000 for labor and materials.

Siding Repair Cost

Average Cost to Repair Siding by Material

Repairing siding costs from $2 to $60 per sq.ft. Many materials can be used effectively to create a beautiful look on the outside of a home. If the siding needs repairing, the cost depends greatly on the material. Some siding materials require repairing only the part that is damaged, while for others, you may have to replace a whole section. Some materials, like vinyl, are more vulnerable to the elements, so they may require more frequent repairs or replacing. Finally, the price varies for different siding materials, another factor contributing to the cost of fixing siding. Here are the most popular siding materials and the cost to repair each of them.

Vinyl Siding Repair

The average cost to repair vinyl siding is $2 to $4 per sq.ft. for materials and labor. Even the best quality vinyl will need repairs, as the material is susceptible to the outdoor elements. Homeowners should examine siding for faded, cracked, or warped areas. Small holes or cracks can be easily repaired in vinyl siding. Suppose you need more than a small piece fixed. In that case, it is advisable to consult a professional because of the difficulty in properly handling and placing larger pieces without damaging them. Matching the current home color can be extremely problematic due to fading, making a substitution with a different color necessary for many homeowners.

Wood Siding Repair

There are two types of T1-11 siding: plywood and OSB siding. Expect to pay $2 to $3.50 per sq.ft. for OSB siding repair and $2 to $5 per sq.ft. for T1-11 siding repair. OSB siding is made by layering wood strands under heat and pressure. While it is a less expensive option, it requires more maintenance and repairs than plywood. T1-11 siding, on the other hand, is more expensive due to its higher durability, easier maintenance, and varied finishing options. T1-11 siding is less popular than other woods, vinyl, or fiber cement due to water damage issues that may cause it to warp and rot. Because of this, all T1-11 siding needs weather-resistant paint or stain to prevent water problems and must be properly sealed and installed.

T-111 Siding Repair

Plywood siding is sometimes referred to as T-111 siding. Expect to pay $2 to $3.50 per sq.ft. for plywood siding repair and $2.50 to $4.50 per sq.ft. for OSB siding repair. Plywood T-111 siding is less popular than other woods, vinyl, or fiber cement due to water damage issues. Plywood is somewhat water-resistant. Plywood siding will need all-weather paint or stain to prevent water problems and must be properly sealed and installed.

Metal Siding Repair

There are different types of metals. The most popular ones used for siding are aluminum and sheet metal. The aluminum siding repair cost is $3 to $7 per sq.ft., while the cost of the materials and labor for metal siding repair is $6 to $10 per sq.ft. Steel siding is considered a very hardy, durable choice that does not fade or become chalky like aluminum siding. However, in areas where salt is in the air or it is damp or moist, rusting can occur, even with a rust-resistant compound applied to the surface. Because it is thicker than aluminum or other metals, steel siding repair is more costly. The material is heavier and more expensive to purchase and install. As an alternative, aluminum siding is relatively low-maintenance, easy to clean, comes in various colors, and is fire and insect resistant. However, aluminum is prone to denting. Some dents can be repaired using a special tool, while others can be filled and painted. Additionally, the surface of aluminum siding can become chalky and faded. This makes it hard to match colors when replacing a small portion, which is why you may need to repaint all the siding

Fiber Cement Siding Repair

You can expect to pay around $4 to $12 per sq.ft. for fiber cement repair. Fiber cement is a combination of wood fibers, cement, sand, and other materials poured into molds, shaped, and then textured to look like wood, stone, or brick. Fiber cement is a durable siding material resistant to moisture, fire, UV rays, and insects. If you perform an annual inspection and promptly make any necessary repairs, fiber cement siding lasts up to 50 years. The most common damage is loose or buckled fiber cement boards and chipped or peeling paint. Fiber cement can be repainted, and loose boards can be reattached. With some repairs, individual boards, entire sections, or even walls may need to be replaced.

Brick Siding Repair

The cost for brick siding repair is $5 to $10 per square foot for brick veneer and $10 to $20 for real brick. Brick siding is a sturdy material resistant to outdoor influence and requires minimal maintenance. However, many types of damage can occur to brick siding. If brick is improperly installed, moisture can get between the home and the brick, causing mold. The other disadvantage is that the mortar can crack in many rare cases and need to be filled with new mortar. Brick veneer siding repair is a cheaper alternative because it is much thinner than regular brick. Its ability to add charm and warmth to your home while allowing you to spend less money makes brick veneer an excellent substitution for its more expensive, thicker counterpart bricks. It is a lighter material, so installation is cheaper. While brick veneer is a less expensive choice than real brick, the mortar cracks easier in tremors, earthquakes, or when heavy equipment is used. Cracks can often result in moisture retention and water damage.

Wood Siding Repair

The wood siding repair price is $5 to $32 per sq.ft. When you say wood siding, it encompasses a wide array of different types of wood such as pine, cedar, teak, ipe, T1-11, and more. While wood can make a home beautiful, using it to protect and enhance the appearance of your house costs more to maintain than other forms of siding. Wood siding includes shingles, clapboard, logs, and shakes. Commonly, clapboard is vulnerable to dry rot and insect infestations. It can be challenging to repair and often requires replacement, so the repair wood siding cost is higher for these types of solutions. No matter the specific form, wood is susceptible to dry rot, splitting, and warping unless you choose a rot-resistant wood like cedar. The cedar siding repair cost is higher than the engineered wood siding repair, but the material is often used to prevent insects and the accompanying damage.

Stone Siding Repair

The average homeowner pays $5 to $10 per sq.ft. for stone veneer repairs and $12 to $60 per sq.ft. to repair stone siding. The price depends on how much damage lies behind the stone and the type of stone used. Stone siding is known for durability and distinctiveness. However, over time, the stone can become cracked, broken, or have pieces break off due to the building settling or harsh weather. Also, the mortar can become loose, allowing access to moisture and insects. Stone is heavy and cumbersome to work with, especially for one person, and may require repairs behind the stone. As an alternative material, stone veneer siding repair effectively mimics the same material without spending the same cost to repair stone siding. Stone veneer is less expensive, lighter, and quicker to install. It is also easy to install and take care of but comes loose easier than its genuine counterpart, leading to major water leakage if not sealed properly.

Stucco Siding Repair

Expect the cost to repair stucco siding to be between $8 and $50 per sq.ft. Stucco siding protects your home for many years, but annual damage inspection and repair is essential. Look for cracks, chips, gaps, holes, discoloring, or any sign that the material has been compromised. Repairing stucco is more complicated and time-consuming than most other types of siding because it is made from multiple layers, which must dry between applications. The total price increases if the damage penetrates beneath the layers of stucco. If the stucco is damaged beyond repair, the stucco replacement cost will be higher than the repair cost.

Cost to Repair Siding by Problem

Siding acts as the protective shell for your home. Repairing it costs $50 to $5,000, depending on its problem. This means that it is exposed to extreme weather conditions. This takes a toll on the appearance and stability of the siding. In many cases, siding can start to show visual signs of damage. You may notice broken or cracked siding. Mold, fungus, or mildew can build up on the siding’s surface and require removal to restore the siding to its former glory. Also, you may notice missing nails or areas where the caulking is damaged or gone. After a storm, it is not uncommon for tree limbs or flying debris to hit the siding’s surface and cause dents or cracks, which also must be promptly repaired. The table below shows the most common problems the siding may have and the repair cost.

Repair a Hole in Vinyl Siding

The cost to repair a hole in siding is around $50 to $100. As with most other siding problems, a hole is generally a sign that you need to do something right away. If left untreated, a hole can quickly become a problem as moisture, dust, insects, and even rats can get between the siding and the insulation. When this happens, you have a bigger problem. Depending on the type of material your siding is made of, filling holes in aluminum siding or other materials is fairly easy.

Damaged Flashing

To repair a small section of flashing, you shouldn’t pay more than $50 to $100. Flashing is a thin piece of waterproof material used to direct water away from certain areas. If your flashing is damaged by wind, rain, heavy snow, or ice, it is a good idea to have it repaired or replaced. Often when the flashing is damaged, it is because the siding is damaged as well. If this happens, the siding needs to be repaired or replaced at an additional cost.

Cracked Siding Repair

Depending on the type of siding, a minor repair of a crack would be about $50 to $150. Some materials like stucco, stone, and brick are more prone to cracking when exposed to the elements. A crack in your siding allows rainwater, moisture, insects, and rodents to get between the siding and your home walls and insulation. Eventually, you will not only have an infestation of pesky creatures but also mold and mildew growing. It is wise to fix cracked siding immediately to avoid these types of problems. For smaller cracks, caulking can be used but will eventually result in a patch or replacement of the siding.

Loose Siding Repair

The cost for this depends on the amount of work needed and the type of siding. But reattaching a few planks will run about $75 to $100. Loose siding can happen during a windstorm or due to a shoddy installation. It can create a whistling sound or rattle when the wind blows. Having a repair done right away is important to your home’s integrity as water and insects can enter through any gaps. A professional will fix the loose siding by applying galvanized nails in strategic areas to make certain it doesn't come loose again. Then the small gaps will be sealed with caulk.

Siding Leak Repair

Expect to pay around $100 to $200 for siding leak repair. A siding leak can occur in almost any type of material. It can sometimes result from an improperly installed product or the expansion and contraction of the material due to heat or cold. Wood siding is the most prone to this, but other types of siding can develop leaks as well. Repairing a leak immediately is the difference between fixing a leak or replacing the siding and possibly your insulation and inside walls.

Woodpecker Siding Damage Repair

A contractor will generally charge a minimum charge of $100 to $450 per hole to repair woodpecker siding damage. This is an extensive range due to the differences in repair costs in a variety of materials. Stucco is on the high end of costs. Woodpeckers enjoy boring holes in siding in search of bugs. As the holes are small, it may be hard to spot them, but it is important to catch them quickly and repair them. Fixing woodpecker holes is a simple chore and should only take a short amount of time. Woodpecker holes can be filled with a silicone sealant, sanded, and then painted to match the rest of the siding.

Dented Siding

Replacement of aluminum siding will cost $120 to $300. Dents are usually seen in aluminum siding as it is softer and thinner. This can be caused by falling debris such as tree branches, acorns, pinecones, hail, or a miscalculated baseball throw. High winds can also result in dents or dings in aluminum siding. To repair dented siding, the professional may drill a hole and insert a sheet metal screw to cover the inside of the siding. When the dent is smaller, sanding may be used and filling the hole with a special putty. To cover the dent completely, the professional may wipe the area and spray metal paint where the dent was.

Rotten Siding Repair

To replace wood or aluminum siding, expect to pay $120 to $1,000. In most cases, if the siding has rotted, the panel or board will need to be replaced. There is not a remedy for dry rot siding repair. This type of damage is generally seen in wood or aluminum siding. Wood is more susceptible, particularly if the wood isn’t maintained properly with a water-resistant coating that is replaced every three or four years. Aluminum may rot due to the hot summer sun.

Warped Siding Repair

You will most likely need to replace warped siding at the cost of $160 to $320, depending on the type of siding you have. Vinyl and some types of sheet metal siding are most susceptible to warping. When the siding is warped, it usually cannot be repaired. You would have to consider the cost to remove and replace the siding. Warped siding can be caused by high heat from a barbeque grill that is too close or a fire pit. Warping may also occur when moisture has leaked, and the siding has expanded or when the siding was not installed properly. Additionally, vinyl will warp if used in a hot climate or near a home that has Low-E window glass.

Remove Mold From Siding

While some mold can be removed by pressure washing for $300, hiring a professional service to clean up just the section where the mold is growing costs $1,500 to $4,000. Mold can grow in areas that are especially moist such as shady, wooded areas, or places where there is poor drainage. If you notice black spots or sections on your siding, you have mold growing. The best way to avoid mold is to have your home pressure washed regularly. Twice a year is a good rule of thumb. To treat mold, vinegar and water may do the trick. Some stubborn mold stains require bleach but remember this will end up in the ground around your house and kill surrounding landscaping.

Water Damage Behind Siding

The cost of removing a panel of siding, cleaning up the water damage, and replacing the siding can be as high as $500 to $5,000. Most materials are susceptible to leaks, especially if the installation is done improperly. While wood is most commonly the siding that suffers water damage, cracks and dents in other siding materials or improper installation can also cause water damage in your home. Water damage under siding is a big deal. This must be corrected as soon as possible to keep mold and mildew from growing and affecting the inside of your house. Additionally, and more concerning, exterior wood siding can soften and rot from water damage. This will result in structural damage. If that is allowed to happen, the bill for repair becomes higher as you get into water damage restoration.

Repair Siding on Cost by Solution

Depending on the solution to the problem, the average cost for siding repair ranges between $50 and $16,500. When holes, cracks, leaks, and gaps occur in siding, there may be several ways to fix the problem. However, a professional will want to choose the best solution for a long term repair. The last thing a homeowner wants is a fix that has to be done again in six months. With that in mind, here are the most common solutions to repair home siding and the cost to do each of them.

Caulk Siding

Caulk is a necessary part of every exterior. Caulk installation may be slightly less expensive than a sealant at around $50 to $100 for 20 to 100 linear feet of siding. It can be used on any siding, including wood and masonry (brick and mortar) siding. The words caulk and sealant are often used interchangeably but are two different products. As we stated above, a sealant is waterproof and should be used for sealing gaps in siding. When you hire a professional, they apply caulk to the corners and crevices of the siding, butt joints, and window and door trim boards to prevent water from seeping into it and causing damage.

Seal Siding

Sealing a six-foot section of porous siding costs about $50 to $150 for materials and labor. Most siding companies charge by the hour, so it depends on how much sealing you need to have done to determine the cost. Sealing is needed to prevent fading, weathering, mold, mildew, and other effects from moisture and heat. There are two types of clean finishes, inorganic and organic. The inorganic type consists of iron-oxide pigments that block or reflect UV light. The organic sealant is an absorber of UV and prevents the wood from taking in the rays. Both types are just like sunblock and will eventually wear off or wear out. Clear finishes only last one to two years. Tinted sealants are longer-lasting at three to five years. Many homeowners are concerned about losing the natural look of the wood with a tinted sealant, but lightly tinted finishes don’t change the appearance.

Siding Spackle

Siding spackling repair is generally used to smooth out rough spots or minor dings. An outdoor use product should be the choice. The cost to do this is $50 to $400, depending on the material of your siding and the size of the section that requires spackling. Spackling involves using putty to fill holes, cracks, and other minor surface defects on the siding. It is mostly suitable for wood, fiber cement, brick, stucco, and other types of porous siding surfaces. However, it cannot be used to fix holes, dents, or water damage on the siding.

Siding Patch

A siding patch is made of the material that matches the siding that needs to be repaired. For a professional to install a siding patch, expect the cost to replace one piece of siding to be $50 to $450. To patch a hole in wood siding or to patch woodpecker holes, the professional will use a liquid wood product along with a sealant. Patching holes in metal siding is best done with a metal patch, while patching holes in aluminum siding means using an aluminum patch along with caulk.

Replace Damaged Siding

Depending on the material, the cost to replace damaged siding starts at $1,000 for one board of siding but goes up to $16,500 if a whole side has to be replaced. The cost per square foot to replace siding ranges between $2 to $20, depending on the material. Over time, siding becomes damaged, cracked, or unattractive, so it would need to be replaced. When this happens, it is important to replace the siding to maintain your home’s function and appearance. You might need to replace your siding for a few different reasons. One of the most common is that the siding has become worn or damaged due to age or exposure to the elements. Another reason might be that you want to update the look of your home. You may plan to sell your home and want to increase its curb appeal, or you simply want a fresh look.

Siding Repair Cost by Location

The average siding repair cost is $50 to $3,000, depending on the location and extent of the damage to the siding. However, a small repair job is usually determined by how much time it will take to repair the damage. Professionals have the right tools to remove old siding and cut the new pieces if needed to fit in a certain area. Some locations are also more complicated to repair, so the roof siding repair cost will be higher than the cost to replace siding on the chimney or garage. The table below contains the most common locations where siding repair is needed and the average cost of the repair.

Corner Siding Repair

Corner siding repair ranges between $50 to $100. Most siding corners are merely a piece of trim and can be easily replaced with a new piece. The only exception is cladding/stone veneer siding corners. Stone veneer corners may require a little more work. If the corner siding problem is slight, a patch may suffice. The repair process includes removing the damaged boards and filling in the gaps. This can be done by using either new boards or cutting planks to size and nailing them into place.

Garage Siding Repair

The pricing shouldn’t be much different than your home’s siding, so the typical cost for a garage siding repair is $120 to $500, depending on the type of siding you have. If you have a separate garage, the siding should always be the same as the rest of your house to maintain curb appeal and value. Some people may not recognize the importance of garage siding. But, repairing a siding issue is just as important to protect the things you have inside your garage.

Chimney Siding Repair

The cost for this type of repair may be $500 to $1,500, which also includes the potential chimney siding replacement cost that may be needed. Siding on chimneys can become loose during wind, hail, or snowstorms. As it is high above your home, you may not realize there is a problem until there is a leak into your house. Repairing chimney siding requires more work and is dangerous as the repair person will need to climb onto the roof.

Roof Siding Repair

Expect your costs to range between $200 and $3,000 if your roof siding needs repairing. Roof siding is directly exposed to the elements, so it may suffer more damage than other areas. Suppose you see cracks, holes, or gaps on the siding of your roof, discoloration, fading of the color, or the roof siding is loose or falling off. These signs indicate that it needs to be repaired. Repairing the roof siding depends on where the damage is located, how extensive it is, and the material. Taking care of your siding protects your roof and prevents leaks that may damage the interior.

Labor Cost to Repair Siding

The typical labor cost of repairing siding on a house ranges from $40 to $100 per hour, depending on who takes care of the repair. In some cases, contractors may charge a $2 to $35 per sq.ft. rate for repair labor, depending on the siding material. Siding professionals, roofing contractors, or a handyman may take care of this job. Before starting the repair process, the contractor will inspect the siding to assess its state and what types of problems it has. A home inspection for about $300 to $500 can also determine the siding problem. Based on the findings of the inspection, the professional will recommend the best solution.

The cost to repair siding varies depending on the extent of the damage and the type of siding that needs to be repaired. For example, small cracks or chips can usually be repaired with caulking or putty, so the labor cost will be relatively low. In these cases, the contractor will start by cleaning the area and removing any loose debris before applying caulking or putty to fill in any small gaps or holes. More extensive damage, such as large sections that need to be replaced, will require more time and labor, resulting in a higher cost. If this is required, the professional will cut a piece of replacement siding to fit the damaged area and attach it using nails or screws. Once the repair is complete, caulking or putty will be used to seal any joints or gaps. The type of siding material also affects the cost of repairs. Vinyl siding is typically the cheapest to repair, while wood siding is usually the most expensive. Ultimately, the best way to get an accurate estimate of the labor cost to repair siding is to have a professional assess the damage and give you a written estimate.

Cost to Remove and Dispose of Siding

When repairing siding, you may need to hire junk removal services to dispose of the old siding, which costs $200 to $600 for minor jobs but can go up to $1,000 to $2,000 if you are removing and disposing of bigger parts of the siding. If you opt to rent a dumpster and throw the old siding in a landfill on your own, the cost will likely be $200 to $550. Once the old siding is taken down, you will need to remove and dispose of it properly. The cost of removing and disposing of siding varies depending on the type and condition of the siding. For example, removing asbestos siding may require special safety precautions and equipment, which can add to the cost.

Asbestos Siding Repair Cost

Repairing asbestos siding costs between $2 and $20 per sq.ft. However, a general contractor with asbestos certifications may charge a fixed base fee of $1,500 to $3,000, regardless of the size of the job. Asbestos siding was once a popular choice for homeowners due to its durability and fire-resistant properties. However, over time, the asbestos fibers can become loose and airborne, posing a serious health risk. If you have asbestos siding, it is important to have it repaired by a professional as soon as possible. The repair process involves sealing the cracks and gaps in the siding to prevent the release of asbestos fibers. Once the repairs are complete, the area should be thoroughly cleaned to remove any loose fibers. In addition, asbestos siding is a dangerous product that was used in building houses before 1960. Asbestos products are no longer available, but a comparable material will be used to match your existing siding.

Maintenance

House siding is a vital part of any home, providing insulation and protecting the structure from the elements. While most siding is durable and low-maintenance, it still needs to be regularly cleaned and inspected for damage. When cleaning the siding, make sure to remove any dirt, dust, or debris that has accumulated on the surface. A soft brush or cloth will usually do the trick. If you have tough stains or mildew, you may need to use a cleaner specifically designed for house siding. Read the label carefully and follow the instructions to avoid damaging the material. Next, inspect the siding for any cracking, chipping, or other signs of wear and tear. If you notice any damage, it is important to have it repaired as soon as possible to prevent further deterioration. Finally, keep an eye out for pests such as termites or carpenter bees, which can cause serious damage to wood siding. If you see any pests, contact a professional pest exterminator right away. By taking care of your siding and maintaining it regularly, you can keep it looking like new for years.

Enhancement and Improvement Costs

Painting

The cost to paint siding depends on the type of paint you want to use and the size of your siding. This costs $2,500 to $7,000 A new coat of paint adds life to any siding and makes it look newer and updated. Faded color makes your home look less attractive and may be prone to cracking or warping. If your siding is in good shape, changing the color gives it a facelift and improves its longevity. For best results, two coats of paint should be applied, allowing the first coat to dry completely before applying the second. Before painting, it is good to give the siding a good pressure washing to remove dirt, debris, and stains.

Pressure Washing

As we mentioned above, pressure washing some surfaces is a good idea before painting. You may find that having the siding cleaned and pressure washed will change the look entirely if it is merely dirt making it look bad. Pressure washing costs $300 to $600 or $0.08 to $0.80 per sq.ft. Homeowners should be leery of pressure washing wood or modified woods as these materials can become damaged or stripped if pressure washed. Asbestos siding, as always, should be handled by a professional. Pressure washing this product can be dangerous.

Exterior Trim Repair

Repairing the exterior trim costs $2 to $4 per linear foot plus labor. Exterior trim is one of the most important aspects of a home’s exterior and siding. It adds visual appeal and protects the siding and the home from weather damage. Over time, however, trim fades, cracks, or chips and requires repairing. Loose or peeling paint should be removed and sanded to create a smooth surface. A fresh coat of paint can be applied to the trim after sanding. Any holes or cracks should also be filled with wood filler or caulk. Once the filler has dried, the area should be sanded again.

Gutters Repair

The average cost to repair gutters is about $100 to $250, depending on the issue.​ Your gutters play a major part in protecting your siding from the weather. Gutters in disrepair make the house look unkempt and can become clogged, leak, sag, or cracked. Repairs may be made, and the cost depends on how long the task takes. However, if the gutters are beyond repair, they may require replacement.

Additional Considerations and Costs

• DIY. It is always advisable to hire a professional to do any siding repairs. Doing your own siding repairs requires the right tools, knowledge, and equipment to ensure the job is done right and no one gets hurt. Several types of siding are dangerous to repair, including those that contain asbestos and silica. Siding repair specialists have everything they need to do the job, do it safely, and get it done correctly.
• Additional charges. Nowadays, many contractors want to install a housewrap between your home’s exterior walls and the siding to optimize waterproofing. If one section of your siding is damaged, you may want to have the housewrap beneath it examined for damage.
• Siding planks. If your home sustains siding damage and the damaged siding is no longer viable, then you could use siding planks with a similar style and color from an area of your home that is less visible to replace the damaged area.
• Permits. Before making repairs or replacing the siding on your home, apply for a building permit. Failing to do so can result in fines and penalties. The lack of proper permits can be costly and time-consuming if you decide to sell your home after unapproved work has been done.