What Impacts the Cost of New Siding in Minnesota?

 

New siding is one of the best investments you can make in your home. It boosts curb appeal, improves energy efficiency, and protects your home from Minnesota’s harsh weather. But like any major home improvement project, it comes with one big question: How much does new siding cost? 

The answer depends on several things. The short answer is that this includes the type of siding you choose, the size and shape of your home, and the details involved in installation. As a part of our promise to provide upfront and honest quotes and costs, we’re telling you exactly what goes into the cost of new siding. This will help you make the right decision for your home and budget.  

Minnesota siding costs basically come down to a few things:

1. Type of Siding Material

One of the biggest factors that influences siding cost is the material itself. The type of siding you choose will have its own pros, cons, and price considerations. 

Vinyl Siding

• Pros: Affordable, low-maintenance, weather-resistant, and available in many colors/styles. 

• Cons: May crack in extreme cold, can take damage from hail, and doesn’t offer the premium look of other materials. 

• Cost: Vinyl is typically the most budget-friendly siding option, making it a popular choice for Minnesota homeowners looking for durability without a high price tag. 

Fiber Cement Siding (James Hardie, etc.)

• Pros: Extremely durable, fire-resistant, pest-resistant, and mimics wood grain. 
• Cons: Heavier and more labor-intensive to install. 
• Cost: More expensive than vinyl but offers long-term value and excellent resistance to Minnesota’s freeze-thaw cycles. 

Engineered Wood Siding (LP Smartside)

• Pros: Offers the warmth and look of wood with improved moisture and pest resistance. 
• Cons: Still needs some maintenance and regular inspections. 
• Cost: Very similar to fiber cement, both in price and performance. 

Natural Wood Siding

• Pros: Beautiful, classic appearance. 
• Cons: Needs to be Painted or Stained, high maintenance, susceptible to rot and pests, and less weather-resistant. 
• Cost: On the higher end, due to materials and upkeep, but offers unmatched curb appeal for the right home. 

Steel or Metal Siding

• Pros: Incredibly durable, fire-resistant, and holds up well in extreme climates. 
• Cons: Limited style options and may be prone to dents. 
• Cost: Higher upfront cost, but it’s built to last—especially useful for homeowners in storm-prone areas. 

2. The Size and Layout of Your Home

It probably goes without saying: the larger your home, the more siding you’ll need, and the more it will cost. But square footage isn’t the only thing that matters. 

Besides the size of your home, there are other layout features that can add to the cost: 

• Multiple stories: Second-story work requires more labor, equipment, and safety precautions. 
• Complex architectural details: Gables, dormers, bump-outs, and irregular shapes all require additional cutting and fitting. 
• Obstacles like decks, porches, or landscaping: These can slow down the installation process and increase labor costs. 
• Height and access: Homes on hills or with difficult-to-access walls may take longer to complete. 

Even two homes with similar square footage can have very different siding costs depending on these factors.

3. Labor and Installation Complexity

Labor is a big part of your siding quote, and proper installation is critical to the long-term performance and appearance of your siding. Here’s what might impact labor costs: 

• Material type: Heavier or more delicate materials (like fiber cement or natural wood) require more precision and time to install. 
• Tear-off or overlay: If your current siding needs to be completely removed, that adds to labor time and disposal costs. 
• Lead-painted siding removal: Homes built before 1978 may have siding with lead-based paint. Specialized safety measures and disposal protocols are required, which increases labor time and cost. 

At Legacy Construction, we make sure every siding project is installed with care, attention to detail, and the right techniques for Minnesota homes.

4. Insulation and Energy Efficiency Upgrades

Installing new siding is the perfect time to improve your home’s insulation. Many homeowners choose to add a rigid foam insulation layer or house wrap beneath the new siding to boost energy efficiency and reduce heating and cooling costs. 

While this does add to the upfront cost, it can make your home more comfortable and reduce energy bills in the long term. This is something that really adds up in Minnesota’s climate.

5. Trim, Accents, and Finishing Details

Don’t forget about the extras that bring your siding project together: 

• Fascia, soffits, and trim boards 
• Decorative accents (like shutters or stone veneer) 
• Color-matching caulking and sealants 
• Gutter removal/reinstallation (if needed) 

These finishing touches can elevate your home’s appearance, but they also contribute to the final price tag.

6. Permits and Local Requirements

Depending on where you live, your siding project may require permits or compliance with specific city or HOA regulations. Permit fees are usually modest, but they should still be factored into your overall project cost. We handle all necessary permits and ensure your project meets local building codes—so you don’t have to worry about it. 

What Should You Budget For?

There’s no one-size-fits-all price for new siding. That’s why we offer free, no-pressure consultations to give you an accurate estimate based on your home and your goals. 

Trust Legacy Construction to Help You Make the Right Choice

At Legacy Construction, we’re not here to upsell or overwhelm you. We’re here to give you honest advice, upfront pricing, and expert craftsmanship you can count on. As a local, family-owned company based in Burnsville, we take pride in helping Minnesota homeowners choose siding that looks great, lasts long, and fits their budget. 

We’ll take the time to understand your goals, explain your material options, and guide you from quote to clean-up. Whether you’re just starting to explore your options or ready to schedule a project, we’re here to help. 

Ready to learn more? Contact Legacy Construction today to schedule a free estimate.