Removing and replacing old or deteriorated siding is a significant home improvement project that often requires the services of a professional contractor. Unless the homeowner carries an extensive skill set in construction techniques, this project is best left to the professionals. Siding removal and replacement is labor-intensive and requires many tools, equipment, and knowledge to achieve a professional result. Also, improperly or poorly installed siding can hurt your property value.

Siding Materials
Most siding contractors include materials and delivery in their estimates. However, it is not unheard of for the homeowner to supply the materials themselves and pay the contractor for removal and installation. If you have purchased your siding materials, you must stack, stock, and handle them according to the manufacturer’s recommendations regarding the specific material. Failure to do so could damage the new material. You should discuss where to place the new siding and how to protect it until its installation with your contractor.

Removing Existing Siding
Siding removal is a big part of the job, more so than the actual installation itself. The material must be removed safely and carefully to reduce the risk of injury and minimize damage to the substrate or existing structure. Many contractors provide a dumpster or use a dump trailer to remove job-related debris from the property and include this charge in the estimate.

Asbestos Siding
If you are one of the unfortunate individuals whose home is covered in asbestos siding, you should be prepared to pay more for its removal and disposal. Removing asbestos siding costs between $3 and $5 per square foot of siding removed versus approximately $1 per square foot for non-asbestos siding. Asbestos removal grants are available to help you offset the costs. If this applies to you, check with your local building department to see if you could benefit from this grant.