Why siding quotes are hard to compare
A siding quote can range from "$X per square foot installed" to a multi-page document itemizing every linear foot of J-channel. The difference between a low quote and a comprehensive one is often not the labor rate. It is what the lower quote left out: tear-off, housewrap, trim, flashing, permit.
What each line means
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Tear-off and disposal
Why it matters: Removal of existing siding and disposal of the material. Often a separate line item.
Notes:
Sheathing inspection and repair
Why it matters: After tear-off, damaged sheathing panels need to be replaced. Good quotes include a per-panel allowance for this or describe what triggers a change order.
Notes:
Housewrap / weather barrier
Why it matters: Should specify the product. Standard felt paper, Tyvek, and premium moisture barriers have different performance profiles.
Notes:
Siding material
Why it matters: Should specify the brand, product line, profile, and color. For fiber cement, the grade (primed vs factory-painted) matters significantly for price and maintenance.
Notes:
Trim, J-channel, and corner pieces
Why it matters: Linear feet of trim and J-channel around every window, door, and corner. This is usually a separate line item.
Notes:
Flashing
Why it matters: Flashing material and labor for windows, doors, and penetrations. May be included in the installation labor or itemized separately.
Notes:
Permit
Why it matters: The permit fee if required by your jurisdiction. Should be a line item.
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After you've received your quotes, visit zollera.com/compare for a free side-by-side AI analysis.
Comparing quotes
Add tear-off, housewrap, trim, flashing, and permit to any quote that omits them, then compare totals. A quote that looks $2,000 cheaper may be $2,000 incomplete. Verify the material spec on every quote is identical before comparing price.
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