Installing siding is a significant home improvement project. Looks matter when choosing, of course, but we shouldn't overlook the technical aspects. A question often asked by homeowners is, "How many pieces of siding are in a square?" Knowing this helps calculate the right amount for your project, and helps to ensure efficiency and cost-effectiveness. Let's dive deeper into this topic.
Understanding Siding Measurements
What is a Square of Siding?
The term 'square' in siding refers to a unit of measurement that covers 100 square feet. This measurement is crucial when purchasing and installing siding, as it helps homeowners and contractors determine the number of siding pieces required.
Factors Influencing Siding Count in a Square
- Size of the Panels: The dimensions of each panel play a significant role. Larger panels will mean fewer pieces per square, and vice versa.
- Style of Siding: The style of siding—whether lap, shingle, or vertical—will also influence the number of pieces in a square. For instance, shingles might require more individual pieces than lap siding for the same area.
How to Measure a Building for Siding
Before you can determine the number of siding pieces needed, you'll need to effectively measure your building. Here's a step-by-step guide to measuring your building for siding:
1. Calculate the Total Wall Area: Start by measuring the height and width of each exterior wall. Multiply these numbers to get the area of each wall, and then add up all the wall areas to get the total wall area.
2. Subtract Doors and Windows: Measure the height and width of all doors and windows on the exterior of your house, calculate their area (height x width), and subtract the total from the total wall area. This gives you the net siding area.
3. Convert to 'squares': Siding is often sold in units called "squares". One square of siding is equal to 100 square feet. Take your net siding area (in square feet) and divide by 100 to convert to squares.
For example:
The 4 walls of your garage total 640 square feet (20' x 8' x 4’).
Subtract the doors and windows ( 4 windows at 3' x 5', 1 entry door at 3' x7' , and 1 garage door at 16' x 7') = 193 square feet.
Total square feet of siding needed - 640 minus 193 = 447 square feet of coverage.
Always consider a 5-10% waste factor. This accounts for errors, trimming, and future repairs.
This means you would order 500 square feet of coverage or 5 squares of siding.
How is Siding Sold? - The Breakdown of Siding Pieces in a Square
Vinyl Siding
Traditional vinyl siding typically contains around 10 to 12 pieces in a square, depending on its width and length, and is normally sold in boxes that contain 2 squares.
Fiber Cement Siding
Fiber cement siding typically comes in a variety of sizes and styles. The most common profile is lap siding and it is available in a range from 5.25" to 8.25" in width and 12' in length. However, fiber cement is also available in panels and shingles. Given these options, the number of pieces that make up a square can vary.
Allura is the Premier Provider of Fiber Cement Siding
Why Choose Fiber Cement Siding from Allura?
- Durability: Fiber cement siding is renowned for its exceptional durability and ability to withstand various weather conditions.
- Aesthetics: Allura has a wide array of styles and colors to choose from, to help ensure a seamless match for your home's unique character.
- Low Maintenance: This type of siding requires minimal upkeep, which makes it a practical and cost-effective long-term investment.
- Environmental Friendliness: Fiber cement is not only sustainable but also aligns with current green building trends, so it is an eco-friendly choice for your home.
Allura Offers Multiple Sizes and Styles of Siding
Allura specializes in fiber cement siding in various sizes and styles, including lap, panel and shakes. Unlike vinyl siding, fiber cement lap siding and panels can be purchased by the piece so that you can get just the amount you require with minimum waste.
Allura Lap
Our Fiber Cement Lap Siding comes in two finishes, Traditional and Smooth premier, so you can choose the perfect style for your home. All boards are available in a convenient 12' length, so that you can easily achieve the look you want with durability that lasts.
Allura Panels
Allura’s Fiber Cement Siding Vertical Panels are available primed and sealed for protection. They are available in:
- Traditional 8" Groove Vertical
- Traditional Vertical
- Smooth Vertical
- Stucco Vertical Panel
Allura Shakes
Experience the cutting-edge innovation of Allura Shingles. With built-in advanced technology and design offerings, our shingles make a strong statement about your style while also providing practical and reliable solutions.
Let's take a look at a breakdown:
These numbers offer an approximate guide as they can vary based on the specific installation process, the layout of the home, and waste factor
Trust Allura for High-Quality Fiber Cement Siding
If you're planning a siding project, don't leave your home's protection and aesthetics to chance. Choose Allura fiber cement siding for its durability, aesthetics, easy maintenance, and eco-friendliness. Ensure that you order the right amount by understanding how many pieces of siding are in a square. Isn't it time to invest in the best for your home?
Contact us today to find out more about our complete line of siding and trim products!
