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How Much Siding Do I Need?

Siding quantity is wall area converted to squares, with waste added. The trick is measuring the walls right and subtracting the openings.

Quick answer: Squares = total wall area (sq ft) ÷ 100, then add 10–15% waste. Subtract large openings but keep a margin for cuts around them.

Measure the walls

Add up the area of every wall (height × width), including gable triangles (½ × base × height). Subtract large windows and doors, but keep waste high near openings because of cuts. Divide by 100 to get squares.

Add waste by profile

Lap siding, board-and-batten and shakes waste differently, and gables and corners increase cuts. Budget 10–15%. The siding calculator converts area to squares and applies the waste automatically.

Open the siding calculator →

FAQ

How do I calculate squares of siding?

Total wall area in square feet divided by 100 equals squares. Add 10–15% waste for cuts, gables and corners.

Do I subtract windows and doors?

Subtract large openings, but keep extra waste around them since siding is cut and fitted at every opening.

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