How it Works
1. Calculate Rectangular Walls: Perimeter × Height.
2. Calculate Gables: 0.5 × Width × Height (for triangular roof peaks).
3. Subtract Openings: Deduct total area of doors, windows, and garage doors.
4. Convert to Squares: Net Area / 100.
5. Add Waste: Typically 10% for standard siding, higher for complex shapes.
What is Siding Estimator: Vinyl, Wood, & Fiber Cement?
The Siding Estimator calculates the total material required to cover the exterior walls of a building. Siding is typically sold by the 'Square' (100 square feet). This tool aggregates the surface area of rectangular walls and triangular gables, subtracts non-covered areas like doors and windows, and applies a waste factor to ensure you purchase enough material to match patterns and cover cutting mistakes.
Step-by-Step Guide
- Measure Walls: Input the height and width of each wall section.
- Add Gables: Include triangular areas under roof peaks (Base x Height / 2).
- Subtract Openings: Remove area for windows (avg 15 sq ft) and doors (avg 20 sq ft).
- Calculate Squares: Divide total sq ft by 100 and add 10% waste.
Example
Input: 2000 sq ft Wall Area
Result: 22 Squares (with 10% Waste)
FAQ
What is a 'Square' of siding?
A construction unit equal to 100 square feet of coverage.
How much waste for vinyl siding?
Standard is 10%. For complex houses with many corners, use 15-20%.
Do I need to subtract windows?
Yes, unless they are very small. For large projects, subtracting openings saves significant money.
How to measure a gable?
Measure the width at the bottom and the height from the center peak to the bottom. Area = 0.5 * Width * Height.
Does this work for Hardie Board?
Yes, the square footage logic applies to fiber cement, vinyl, and wood shakes.
👷 Safety First: Always adhere to local building codes and regulations. Wear appropriate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) when performing construction tasks.
Conclusion
Accurate siding estimation saves money and prevents project delays caused by reordering custom colors. Remember to factor in 'starter strips' and 'J-channels' for vinyl siding, which are linear footage calculations separate from the square footage of the panels themselves.