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Siding

Engineered Wood Siding

Average Cost:

$5,370 - $12,870

Engineered wood siding costs anywhere from $3.58 to $8.58 per square foot to install. If you were to install engineered wood siding on an average size 1,500 square foot home, you could expect to pay between $5,370 and $12,870 in total installation costs.

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Updated: Nov 15, 2024 · Written By: Emily Bloch · Reviewed By: Kat Gayol

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  1. Engineered Wood Siding vs. Natural Wood
  2. Engineered Wood Siding Pros
  3. Engineered Wood Siding Cons
  4. Maintenance Tips
Engineered wood siding offers a cost-effective alternative to natural wood, using energy-efficient composite materials that reduce the overall cost per square foot for homeowners.

Available in 4×8 sheets or lap panels with smooth or embossed textures, engineered wood siding is priced around $3 to $8 per square foot—much less expensive than traditional wood siding. Engineered wood typically lasts 20 to 30 years, while natural wood can last up to 50 years.

wood siding installers

Engineered Wood Siding vs. Natural Wood

Engineered wood siding mimics the look of natural wood while eliminating flaws, resisting deterioration, and reducing installation and maintenance costs. Here’s why it’s often considered superior to real wood:

  • Strength: Wood strands coated with a resin binder and compressed create a durable, weather-resistant siding.
  • Moisture, Rot, and Pest Resistance: Treated to resist termites and rot, it has a moisture-resistant overlay that offers better protection and a realistic cedar-grain appearance.
  • Easy Installation: Lighter and easier to handle than natural wood, it comes pre-primed, ready to paint, or pre-finished, saving time and labor costs.

Engineered Wood Siding Pros

Homeowners use engineered wood siding on over 1.5 million U.S. homes due to its versatility, durability, and affordability. It offers a wide range of customizable options that mimic premium materials like cedar, brick, and stone, without the high costs. Unlike natural wood, engineered wood resists splitting, cracking, and warping. Manufacturers treat it to prevent mold, mildew, and insect infestation, providing a robust layer of protection. It typically comes with a 30-year warranty.

Compared to natural wood, engineered siding is a budget-friendly choice, costing $3 to $8 per square foot. Its lightweight design reduces labor costs, and the use of sawdust in production makes it a more eco-friendly option. With a factory-applied finish, it requires less maintenance and has a lifespan of 20 to 30 years. When replaced, it biodegrades easily, making it a sustainable choice for homeowners.

Engineered Wood Siding Cons

For homeowners who desire the natural look of wood, synthetic wood may appear too perfect. However, some view this as a bonus because the siding will always look fresh.

Although they benefit from significant research and solid product warranties, earlier versions struggled with moisture issues. Some builders argue that the new variety of faux wood siding hasn’t been on the market long enough to fully prove its durability.

We recommend speaking with reliable local engineered wood siding installers near you to ask them whether engineered wood is a good choice for your home’s needs.

Compare and contrast the pros and cons of other popular types of siding.

engineered wood siding cost to install

Maintenance Tips

Synthetic wood siding requires little maintenance. Rinse it with a power washer once a year to remove dirt. No additional care is needed to keep it looking good and strong.

Engineered wood siding provides a versatile, durable, and eco-friendly alternative to natural wood. It offers the look of premium materials at a lower cost, between $3 and $8 per square foot. With options mimicking cedar, brick, and stone, it resists moisture, rot, and pests. Easy to install, it requires minimal upkeep and lasts up to 30 years. Consult trusted local installers to see if it suits your home.

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