Key Takeaways
| Main Points | Details |
|---|---|
| Cost per Square Foot | $5 – $15 installed |
| Average Total Cost for Homes | $8,500 – $31,500 for a 2,000 – 2,500 SF home |
| Material Options | Wood, Vinyl, Steel, Concrete |
| Lifespan | Varies by material (20-100 years) |
| Labor Costs | Varies based on complexity and region |
Log siding is an attractive option for homeowners looking to achieve that classic, rustic look. It marries the charm of a traditional log cabin with modern construction techniques. In this guide, we will cover the cost of log siding, the factors affecting those costs, and what to consider when hiring a professional.
$5 – $15 Cost Per Square Foot Installed
The cost for log siding varies widely based on several factors, including material type and installation complexity. On average, you can expect to pay between $5 to $15 per square foot for installed log siding. This range captures the most common types of log siding, but specifics can vary.
$8,500 – $31,500 Average Total Cost Installed (2,000 – 2,500 SF Home)
For a typical home ranging from 2,000 to 2,500 square feet, the average total cost to install log siding falls between $8,500 and $31,500. The wide range accounts for differences in material, labor costs, and regional variations.
Average Cost Of Log Siding
Understanding how the cost scales with the size of your home is essential for budgeting.
Average Wood Log Siding Cost
| Home Size (Square Feet) | Approximate Siding Square Footage | Average Cost Installed |
|---|---|---|
| 900 | 720 | $3,600 – $10,800 |
| 1,000 | 800 | $4,000 – $12,000 |
| 1,200 | 1,000 | $5,000 – $15,000 |
| 1,500 | 1,200 | $6,000 – $18,000 |
| 1,800 | 1,500 | $7,500 – $22,500 |
| 2,000 | 1,700 | $8,500 – $25,500 |
| 2,500 | 2,100 | $10,500 – $31,500 |
| 2,800 | 2,300 | $11,500 – $34,500 |
| 3,000 | 2,500 | $12,500 – $37,500 |
| 3,500 | 2,900 | $14,500 – $43,500 |
| 4,000 | 3,350 | $16,750 – $50,300 |
Log Siding Prices By Material
Costs can also vary by the type of material used for log siding. Here are approximate costs for different materials.
Log Siding Price By Material
| Log Siding Material | Average Material Price Per Square Foot | Average Installed Cost Per Square Foot |
|---|---|---|
| Real Wood | $3.00 – $9.00 | $5 – $15 |
| Vinyl | $2.00 – $4.00 | $4 – $8 |
| Steel | $5.50 – $6.50 | $11 – $16 |
| Concrete | $8.00 – $18.00 | $13 – $30 |
Wood Log Siding
Wood log siding is a popular choice for its authentic appearance. It comes in various styles, each with different costs and characteristics.
Wood Log Siding Prices By Type
| Type | Average Price Per Square Foot | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Quarter-log | $2.50 – $7.00 | – Also called “2-inch log” – Mostly 2-inch thickness – Lightweight for easy installation |
| Half-log | $3.50 – $12.00 | – Also called “3-inch log” – Mostly 3- to 3.5-inch thickness – More rounded appearance than quarter-log |
| D-log | $18.00 – $35.00+ | – Also called “extra-thick” log siding – 5.5- to 12-inch thicknesses – Not as common as quarter-log and half-log |
| Shiplap log | $3.50 – $8.50 | – Mostly 1- to 2-inch thicknesses – Flat log siding look |
Vinyl Log Siding
Vinyl log siding offers a cost-effective alternative to natural wood, providing a similar aesthetic with less maintenance. Vinyl siding typically ranges from $4 to $8 per square foot when installed.
Steel Log Siding
Steel log siding is more durable than wood and vinyl and can withstand harsh weather conditions. However, this durability comes at a higher price, generally costing between $11 and $16 per square foot installed.
Concrete Log Siding
Concrete log siding is the most durable and low-maintenance option available. It is also the most expensive, ranging from $13 to $30 per square foot installed.
Log Siding Cost Calculator
To get a clearer estimate of the total cost for your project, a cost calculator can be of great help. Factors to input include the size of your home, the material you choose, and potential labor costs.
Labor Cost To Install Log Siding
Labor costs can vary widely based on the complexity of the installation and the region where you live. Expect to pay more for experienced contractors and intricate installation techniques.
Log Siding FAQs
How Long Does Log Siding Last?
The lifespan of log siding depends heavily on the material.
Log Siding Lifespan
| Material | Average Lifespan |
|---|---|
| Wood | 20 – 40+ years |
| Vinyl | 30 – 60+ years |
| Steel | 30 – 50+ years |
| Concrete | 50 – 100 years |
How Long Does It Take To Install Log Siding?
The time it takes to install log siding primarily depends on your home’s size and the material used. Typically, a professional team can install log siding on an average-sized home in about one to two weeks. However, complex projects or those with unique customizations may take longer.
How Do I Maintain Log Siding?
Proper maintenance is crucial to extend the life and appearance of your log siding.
- Regular Inspections: Check for cracks, splits, and damage at least once a year.
- Cleaning: Clean the siding with a mild detergent and water to remove dirt and mildew.
- Re-sealing: Wood siding should be re-sealed every two to five years to protect it from the elements.
- Pest Control: Check for signs of pests and treat as necessary to prevent infestations.
Getting Estimates From Log Siding Installers
Before embarking on your log siding project, it is wise to obtain multiple estimates from qualified contractors. This ensures you get a fair price and understand the various facets of your project.
Questions To Ask
When discussing your project with potential contractors, consider asking the following questions to ensure they are the right fit:
- Experience: How many years have you been installing log siding?
- Portfolio: Can you show me examples of similar projects you have completed?
- Timeline: How long will the project take, and what is your estimated start date?
- Warranty: Do you offer any warranties on your work or the materials used?
- Licensing: Are you fully licensed and insured?
By asking these questions, you can gauge the professionalism and expertise of the contractors, ensuring your log siding project is in good hands.
