Are you planning to revamp the exterior of your 1200 square foot house? One of the most crucial decisions you’ll make is determining how much siding do I need for a 1200 square foot house. Not only does it affect the overall look of your home, but it also plays a significant role in protecting it from the elements.
In this article, we’ll break down everything you need to know about calculating siding square footage, determining the type of siding, and estimating the cost. So, whether you’re a homeowner or a contractor, keep reading to ensure your siding project is a success.
How much siding is needed for a 1200 square foot house?
Calculating the amount of siding needed for a 1200-square-foot house depends on several factors, including the type of siding, the condition of the existing siding, and the desired level of coverage.
First, you will need to measure the total square footage of the house’s exterior walls. To do this, measure the length and width of each wall, then multiply the two numbers together to get the square footage of that wall.
Repeat this process for all exterior walls, and add up the square footage of each wall to get the total square footage of the house. For a 1200 square foot house, the total square footage of the exterior walls would be roughly 3200 square feet.
Next, you’ll need to consider the type of siding you’re planning to use. Different types of siding have different coverage rates. For example, traditional vinyl siding typically covers around 0.42 square feet per linear foot, while fiber cement siding covers around 0.33 square feet per linear foot. You’ll need to consult the manufacturer’s specifications to determine the coverage rate of the siding you’re considering.
Once you know the total square footage of the exterior walls and the coverage rate of the siding, you can calculate the total number of siding panels required. The formula to do this is (total square footage of exterior walls) / (coverage rate of siding) = (number of siding panels needed).
For example, if you’re planning to use traditional vinyl siding on a 1200 square foot house, the calculation would be 3200 / 0.42 = 7600/0.42 = 7600/0.42 =1809.52; you will need 1809.52 siding panels.
It’s important to note that this calculation is based on ideal conditions and does not take into account any necessary cuts or adjustments for windows, doors, or other features. Additionally, it is always best to purchase a little extra siding in case of any mistakes or damage during installation.
How to calculate siding square footage for a 1200 square-foot house
To calculate the siding square footage for a 1200-square-foot house, you will need to measure the total square footage of the exterior walls. Here are the steps to do this:
- Measure the length and width of each exterior wall of the house.
- Multiply the length and width of each wall to get the square footage of that wall.
- Repeat this process for all exterior walls of the house.
- Add up the square footage of each wall to get the total square footage of the house’s exterior walls.
For example, if the house has four walls that measure 30 feet by 40 feet, the total square footage of the exterior walls would be: 30 feet (length) x 40 feet (width) = 1200 square feet (for each wall) 1200 square feet x 4 walls = 4800 square feet (total square footage of exterior walls)
Note that the total square footage of the house is not the same as the total square footage of the exterior walls, as the house also includes the roof, floor, and interior walls.
Once you have the total square footage of the exterior walls, you can calculate how much siding is needed by considering the coverage rate of the siding you plan to use, as I explained in my previous answer. It is important to consider the coverage rate of the siding you plan to use because different types of siding have different coverage rates.
Furthermore, calculating the siding square footage for a 1200 square foot house involves measuring the length and width of each exterior wall, multiplying the two numbers to get the square footage of each wall, adding up the square footage of all walls to get the total square footage of the exterior walls, and then dividing this number by the coverage rate of the siding you plan to use to determine the total number of siding panels required.
The average cost of siding for a 1200 square foot house
The cost of siding for a 1200-square-foot house can vary greatly depending on the type of siding material used, the cost of labor in the area, and any additional features or upgrades that are included in the project.
On average, homeowners can expect to pay between $8,000 and $15,000 for siding on a 1200 square foot house.
Some factors that can impact the cost of siding for a 1200 square foot house include:
- Type of siding: Different types of siding materials have different costs. Vinyl siding is typically the most affordable option, while fiber cement and wood siding tend to be more expensive.
- Labor costs: The cost of labor can vary greatly depending on where you live and the level of experience of the contractor you choose.
- Additional features: If you want to add additional features to your siding, such as insulation or a built-in ventilation system, this can increase the overall cost of the project.
- Condition of the current siding: If the current siding on your house is in poor condition and needs to be removed and disposed of, this will add to the cost of the project.
Overall, it’s important to get multiple quotes from different contractors before making a decision on siding for your house. It will help you compare prices and ensure that you’re getting the best deal for your budget.
How to determine the type of siding needed for a 1200 square foot house
When determining the type of siding needed for a 1200 square foot house, there are a few factors to consider:
- Climate: The climate in your area will play a big role in determining the type of siding that is best for your house. For example, if you live in a region that experiences heavy rainfall or high winds, you’ll want to choose a siding material that is resistant to water damage and can withstand strong winds.
- Durability: Consider the lifespan of the siding material and how long it will last before it needs to be replaced. Some materials, like vinyl, aluminum, and fiber cement, are known to last longer than others.
- Maintenance: Consider the level of maintenance required for the siding material. Some materials, like wood, will require more maintenance than others.
- Budget: Consider the cost of the siding material and installation, and compare it to your budget. Some materials, like vinyl or aluminum, may be more affordable than others, like wood or brick.
- Design: Consider the overall aesthetic of your house and how the siding material will complement the design. Some materials, like brick or stone, may complement a traditional design, while others, like vinyl or aluminum, may complement a more contemporary design.
- Energy efficiency: Consider the insulating properties of the siding material and how it will impact your energy costs. Some materials, like fiber cement or insulated vinyl siding, are known to be more energy efficient than others.
By taking these factors into consideration, you can determine the best type of siding for your 1200 square foot house. It is always better to consult with a professional siding contractor who can advise you better on the type of siding that will be suitable for your house and your budget.
How to measure for siding on a 1200 square foot house
Measuring for siding on a 1200-square-foot house can be a bit of a challenge, but with the right tools and techniques, it can be done accurately.
Here are the steps you can follow to measure for siding on a 1200 square foot house:
- Measure the length and width of each wall: Using a tape measure, measure the length and width of each wall of your house. This will give you the square footage of each wall.
- Measure the windows and doors: Measure the width and height of each window and door in your house. Subtract the square footage of the windows and doors from the total square footage of each wall to determine the square footage of siding needed for each wall.
- Measure the corners and angles: Measure the width and height of any corners or angles on your house. These areas will require special siding cuts and will need to be factored into your overall square footage calculation.
- Measure the eaves and soffits: Measure the length of the eaves and soffits on your house. These areas will also require special siding cuts and will need to be factored into your overall square footage calculation.
- Add up all of your measurements: Add up the square footage of each wall, the square footage of the windows and doors, the square footage of the corners and angles, and the square footage of the eaves and soffits to determine the total square footage of siding needed for your house.
- Add a 10% buffer: To account for any errors or unexpected issues that may arise during the siding installation process, it is a good idea to add a 10% buffer to your total square footage calculation.
It is always recommended to have a professional contractor measure your house before the siding installation process to ensure the most accurate measurements possible.
The difference in cost between vinyl and wood siding for a 1200 square foot house
The difference in cost between vinyl and wood siding for a 1200-square-foot house can vary depending on a number of factors, including the cost of materials, the cost of labor, and any additional features or upgrades that are included in the project. However, in general, vinyl siding is typically more affordable than wood siding.
On average, homeowners can expect to pay between $8,000 and $12,000 for vinyl siding on a 1200-square-foot house, while wood siding can cost anywhere from $12,000 to $20,000.
Some factors that can impact the cost difference between vinyl and wood siding include:
- Type of wood: Different types of wood siding can have different costs. Cedar and redwood tend to be more expensive than other types of wood.
- Labor costs: The cost of labor can vary greatly depending on where you live and the level of experience of the contractor you choose.
- Additional features: If you want to add additional features to your siding, such as insulation or a built-in ventilation system, this can increase the overall cost of the project.
- Maintenance: Wood siding requires more maintenance than vinyl siding, which can add to the overall cost of the project over time.
- Longevity: Vinyl siding is known for its long-lasting nature and durability compared to wood siding, which requires regular painting and staining to maintain its appearance.
The average labor cost for installing siding on a 1200 square foot house
The average labor cost for installing siding on a 1200-square-foot house can vary greatly depending on the type of siding material used, the cost of labor in the area, and any additional features or upgrades that are included in the project.
However, on average, homeowners can expect to pay between $3,000 and $6,000 for labor costs associated with siding installation on a 1200-square-foot house.
Some factors that can impact the labor cost of siding installation include:
- Type of siding: Different types of siding materials have different installation processes, with some materials like vinyl and aluminum being easier to install than others like wood or brick.
- Labor rates: The cost of labor can vary greatly depending on where you live and the level of experience of the contractor you choose.
- Additional features: If you want to add additional features to your siding, such as insulation or a built-in ventilation system, this can increase the overall cost of the project.
- Condition of the current siding: If the current siding on your house is in poor condition and needs to be removed and disposed of, this will add to the cost of the project.
It’s important to note that labor costs can also vary depending on the local market; some contractors may charge more than others.
It’s always better to get multiple quotes from different contractors before making a decision on siding for your house. It will help you compare prices and ensure that you’re getting the best deal for your budget.
How to estimate siding materials for a 1200 square foot house
Estimating siding materials for a 1200-square-foot house can be a bit of a challenge, but with the right tools and techniques, it can be done accurately. Here are the steps you can follow to estimate siding materials for a 1200 square foot house:
- Measure the length and width of each wall: Using a tape measure, measure the length and width of each wall of your house. This will give you the square footage of each wall.
- Measure the windows and doors: Measure the width and height of each window and door in your house. Subtract the square footage of the windows and doors from the total square footage of each wall to determine the square footage of siding needed for each wall.
- Measure the corners and angles: Measure the width and height of any corners or angles on your house. These areas will require special siding cuts and will need to be factored into your overall square footage calculation.
- Measure the eaves and soffits: Measure the length of the eaves and soffits on your house. These areas will also require special siding cuts and will need to be factored into your overall square footage calculation.
- Add up all of your measurements: Add up the square footage of each wall, the square footage of the windows and doors, the square footage of the corners and angles, and the square footage of the eaves and soffits to determine the total square footage of siding needed for your house.
- Estimate the number of siding panels needed: Based on the type of siding you’ve chosen, estimate the number of siding panels you will need to cover your house. This will vary depending on the size and type of siding panel you choose.
- Estimate the number of trims and accessories needed: Estimate the number of trims and accessories you will need to complete the installation, including corner posts, J-channel, and starter strip.
- Add a 10% buffer: To account for any errors or unexpected issues that may arise during the siding installation process, it is a good idea to add a 10% buffer to your total square footage calculation.
The benefits of using insulated siding on a 1200 square foot house
Using insulated siding on a 1200 square foot house can offer a number of benefits, including:
- Increased energy efficiency: Insulated siding acts as an additional layer of insulation for your home, which can help to keep your home warm in the winter and cool in the summer. This can lead to significant energy savings on your heating and cooling bills.
- Improved comfort: Insulated siding can help to keep your home at a more consistent temperature, which can lead to improved comfort throughout the year.
- Enhanced durability: Insulated siding is typically thicker and stronger than traditional siding, which can make it more resistant to damage from impact and weather. This can lead to a longer lifespan for your siding.
- Better sound insulation: Insulated siding can help to reduce the amount of outside noise that enters your home, which can lead to a more peaceful living environment.
- Enhanced curb appeal: Insulated siding can be made to look like traditional siding materials such as wood, brick, or stone and can improve the overall appearance of your home.
- Easy installation: Insulated siding is typically easy to install and can be done by a professional contractor in a relatively short amount of time.
- Increased property value: Insulated siding can increase the value of your property as it is seen as an upgrade feature, and it can be more attractive to potential buyers.
- Environmentally friendly: Insulated siding is made with recycled materials and requires less energy to produce, which makes it an environmentally friendly option.
How to choose the best siding color for a 1200 square-foot house
When choosing the best siding color for a 1200 square foot house, there are several factors to consider:
- The color of the roof: The color of the siding should complement the color of the roof rather than clash with it.
- The surrounding landscape: The siding color should also complement the colors of the surrounding landscape, such as the trees and bushes.
- The style of the house: The siding color should be appropriate for the style of the house, such as a neutral color for a traditional style home or a bold color for a modern style home.
- Personal preference: Ultimately, the best siding color for a 1200-square-foot house is one that the homeowner likes and feels confident about.
It’s recommended to get some color swatches or paint samples and see how they look on the house at different times of the day. And you can also consult with a professional interior designer or color consultant to help you choose the best color for your house.
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How to protect siding from harsh weather on a 1200 square foot house
There are several ways to protect siding from harsh weather on a 1200 square foot house:
- Regular maintenance: Regularly cleaning and inspecting the siding can help prevent damage from harsh weather. This can include power washing, scraping, and repainting as needed.
- Sealant: Applying a sealant to the siding can help protect it from water damage and UV rays.
- Weatherproofing: Installing weatherproofing products, such as flashing and weatherstripping, around windows and doors can help prevent water infiltration.
- Overhangs: Installing overhangs, such as eaves or awnings, over windows can provide extra protection from rain and sun.
- Insulation: Proper insulation can help keep the interior of the house warm in the winter and cool in the summer, which can help prevent damage to the siding from temperature changes.
- Keep trees trimmed: Trim the branches of trees that are close to the house, so they don’t scrape against the siding or drop leaves and debris on the roof and siding.
It’s important to consult with a professional contractor to determine the best approach for protecting your specific type of siding from harsh weather and also to make sure that the measures taken are code compliant and in accordance with the warranty of the siding.
Conclusion
If you want to know how much siding do I need for a 1200 square foot house, then you are just in the right place. Determining how much siding is needed for a 1200-square-foot house depends on various factors, such as the type of siding, the condition of the current siding, and the desired aesthetic.
It’s important to consider the surrounding landscape, the style of the house, personal preference, and weather protection when choosing the best siding color. To ensure the appropriate amount of siding is used and that it’s properly installed, it’s recommended to consult with a professional contractor. They will take measurements, assess the condition of the current siding, and provide an estimate for the cost of materials and labor.
