How Much Does It Cost to Replace Asbestos Siding? [2025 Data]
The average cost to replace asbestos siding ranges from $16,000 to $22,000, with most homeowners paying an average of $19,000. Main cost factors include home size, siding material, and labor.
The cost to replace asbestos siding varies based on home size, siding material, site preparation, and labor rates.
Professional asbestos abatement costs $75 to $200 per hour and is required for safe removal.
Depending on your area, permits and disposal fees can add up to $5,000 to the total project cost.
New siding material options can impact long-term maintenance needs and costs.
This article was created using automation technology and thoroughly fact-checked and edited by an Angi Editor in accordance with our AI policy.
The cost to replace asbestos siding averages $19,000, with most homeowners spending between $16,000 and $22,000 on average. Prices can range from $8 to $15 per square foot, depending on the home’s size, siding material, and labor rates. Removing and replacing asbestos siding requires certified professionals and careful planning to ensure safety and compliance.
Let’s walk through what impacts these costs and how you can plan a safe, smart siding replacement for your home.
Cost Factors for Replacing Asbestos Siding
Replacing asbestos siding is a significant investment, and several key factors shape the final bill. Understanding each element can help you budget and make confident decisions for your home.
Replacement Type
The type of project—whether you’re replacing all siding or just a portion—affects the total cost to replace asbestos siding. Full replacement is often needed for older homes, but if only a few damaged panels are present, partial replacement is possible.
| Replacement Type | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Full replacement | $15,000–$27,000 |
| Partial replacement | $5,000–$12,000 |
Home Size
The size of your home directly impacts the cost to replace asbestos siding, with replacement costs ranging from $8 to $15 per square foot. Larger homes require more labor, more materials, and more time. Multi-level homes or homes with complex layouts can also push costs higher.
| Home Size (Sq. Ft.) | Average Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 1,000 | $8,000–$15,000 | Small bungalow or cottage |
| 1,500 | $12,000–$22,500 | Typical single-story home |
| 2,500 | $20,000–$37,500 | Larger, multi-story, or complex homes |
| 3,500+ | $28,000–$52,500 | Large or custom homes |
Materials
Your choice of new siding material has a major effect on both upfront and long-term costs. Each material offers unique benefits and considerations for durability, maintenance, and appearance.
| Siding Material | Cost per Sq. Ft. | Pros/Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Vinyl | $4–12 | Affordable, low maintenance, wide color options, less durable than others |
| Fiber cement | $6–$15 | Durable, fire-resistant, mimics wood, moderate maintenance |
| Wood | $5–$15 | Natural look, higher maintenance, can be stained/painted |
| Engineered wood | $5–$15 | More durable than real wood, lower maintenance, limited grain patterns |
| Metal | $6–$16 | Very durable, fire-resistant, can be noisy, higher upfront cost |
| Stucco | $9–$12 | Good insulation, unique finish, labor-intensive installation |
Labor
Labor is a significant part of the cost to replace asbestos siding, since only certified asbestos abatement professionals can safely remove the old material. Siding installers then add the new siding. Labor costs vary by region, project complexity, and the professionals’ experience.
Asbestos abatement contractors charge $75 to $200 per hour, reflecting the hazardous nature of asbestos work. Siding installation labor ranges from $40 to $80 per hour. Homes with multiple stories, hard-to-reach areas, or detailed trim will see higher labor costs. Urban areas or regions with high demand may also have higher rates.
Prep
Preparation is crucial for safety and compliance. Before removal, asbestos testing and inspection are often required, costing $300 to $800. Site prep may include setting up containment, protective barriers, and disconnecting utilities as needed, which can add $500 to $2,000. If landscaping or exterior features are close to the siding, you might pay extra for protection or temporary removal.
Tipping
Tipping is not required for asbestos abatement or siding crews, but it’s appreciated for exceptional service. If you choose to tip, $20 to $50 per crew member is common. Alternatively, providing refreshments or a positive review is a thoughtful way to acknowledge a job well done.
Additional Cost Factors
Several additional expenses can add to the total cost to replace asbestos siding:
Asbestos disposal and hazardous waste handling fees are often included in your siding replacement quote, but if they’re charged separately, expect to pay between $500 and $2,000.
Permit and inspection costs vary by location, but add $200 to $3,000.
Post-removal cleanup and air quality testing can cost $300 to $1,000.
If underlying damage is found (rot, water, or pests), repairs may add $500 to $5,000 or more.
Temporary housing or relocation may be needed for large or complex jobs, adding to your expenses.
Decorative upgrades, custom trim, or special finishes can increase the final bill.
Painting or staining new siding, if not included, adds $1 to $5 per square foot.
Siding Replacement Ongoing Costs
When you invest in new siding, you’ll want to plan for ongoing costs that come with maintaining and protecting your home’s exterior.
Maintenance
Each siding material comes with its own set of maintenance needs. Vinyl siding requires only occasional washing, costing $100 to $300 per year for supplies or professional cleaning. Fiber cement and wood siding need periodic sealing or painting every five to 10 years, which costs $2 to $5 per square foot per cycle. Engineered wood falls in between, while metal siding needs little more than occasional cleaning and inspections.
Operating Costs
New siding can boost your home’s energy efficiency, especially if you add insulation or house wrap. Improved insulation can reduce heating and cooling bills by up to 15%. Some materials, like fiber cement or stucco, are especially effective at helping regulate indoor temperatures. You may also have ongoing costs for pest prevention or moisture management, which vary based on climate and siding type.
Repairs
Even the best siding can suffer damage from storms, accidents, or normal wear, making siding repairs necessary. Vinyl repairs often cost $300 to $800 per incident, while fiber cement and engineered wood repairs run $500 to $1,500. Wood siding repairs are similar but may require more frequent touch-ups. After asbestos removal, the risk of asbestos exposure is very low, but if minor contamination is found, cleanup can cost $500 to $2,000.
Insurance
Replacing asbestos siding can lower your homeowners insurance premiums, as many insurers charge extra for homes with hazardous materials. You’ll need proof of proper asbestos abatement for full coverage. During the project, your contractor’s insurance should cover accidental exposure or improper removal, but it’s wise to confirm this before work begins.
DIY Asbestos Siding Replacement vs. Hiring a Pro
Removing asbestos siding yourself is illegal in many places and always risky due to the health hazards involved. Certified asbestos abatement professionals are required by law in most states. Attempting DIY removal can lead to severe penalties, health risks, and unsafe disposal.
DIY costs include tools, protective suits, respirators, and disposal fees ($10 to $50 per cubic yard), which can total $2,000 to $5,000 before you even start. However, you’ll still need to pay for certified disposal and risk significant fines. Hiring a professional may cost more upfront, but you gain peace of mind, legal compliance, and a warranty on the work. Pros handle every step, from safe removal to proper installation of your new siding.
Common Asbestos Siding Replacement Add-Ons
Many homeowners use the opportunity of replacing asbestos siding to upgrade or personalize their home’s exterior. Common add-ons include:
Upgrading to premium or insulated siding material to improve energy efficiency.
Adding house wrap or moisture barriers to protect against water damage.
Installing new trim, soffits, or fascia for a finished look.
Painting or staining new siding to match your style.
Adding decorative elements like shutters or architectural accents.
Upgrading insulation during siding replacement for better temperature control.
Replacing windows or doors at the same time to streamline the project and potentially save on labor costs.
Each of these options adds to the total project cost, but they can boost curb appeal, comfort, and long-term value.
Tips to Reduce the Cost to Replace Asbestos Siding
Let’s look at some practical ways to keep the cost of replacing asbestos siding manageable:
Obtain multiple quotes from certified local asbestos abatement companies and siding contractors to compare pricing and services.
Schedule work during off-peak seasons when contractors may offer better rates.
Choose budget-friendly siding materials with proven durability for your climate.
Prepare the site yourself, such as moving outdoor furniture or trimming landscaping, if allowed by your contractor.
Bundle siding replacement with other exterior renovations to take advantage of package discounts.
Maintain your new siding properly to avoid costly repairs down the line.
How Angi Gets Its Cost Data
Home is the most important place on earth, which is why Angi has helped more than 150 million homeowners transform their houses into homes they adore. To help homeowners with their next project, Angi provides readers with the most accurate cost data and upholds strict editorial standards. We extensively research project costs to develop the pricing data you see, so you can make the best decisions for you and your home. We rely on reputable sources, including the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, academic journals, market studies, and interviews with industry experts—all to ensure our prices reflect real-world projects.
Want to help us improve our cost data? Send us a recent project quote to [email protected]. Quotes and personal information will not be shared publicly.
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