Siding in Redmond, WA
Re-siding a typical Redmond two-story costs $32,000 to $68,000 in fiber cement and $28,000 to $58,000 in engineered wood. Siding replacement is among Redmond's most common exterior projects, because many homes built in the 1980s and 1990s were sided in hardboard or OSB-based lap siding that swells, rots and has reached the end of its life.
Redmond siding costs
| Project | Typical Redmond range | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Two-story home, fiber cement | $32,000 – $68,000 | The most common replacement |
| Two-story home, engineered wood | $28,000 – $58,000 | Lighter, paint-ready |
| Larger North Redmond home | $55,000 – $95,000 | Height and trim detail |
| Rambler, fiber cement | $26,000 – $45,000 | Overlake, Idylwood |
| Rot repair at windows and decks | $2,500 – $12,000 | Found on most older subdivision homes |
Why Redmond's original siding fails
Hardboard and early OSB-based lap sidings were widely used on Northwest subdivisions in the 1980s and 1990s. When paint wears or caulk fails, water enters cut ends and nail holes, the boards swell at their bottom edges, and rot follows. Once swelling appears across several walls, painting cannot save it. Replacement with fiber cement or modern treated engineered wood, over a new water-resistive barrier and a rainscreen, is the usual answer.
What re-siding Redmond homes uncovers
Removing old siding often reveals rotted sheathing below windows, at inside corners, under deck ledgers and behind gutters that overflowed. Original window flashing on these homes was frequently minimal. A contractor who reflashes windows, or recommends replacing them at the same time, prevents the next round of rot.
Redmond siding rules and HOAs
Re-siding without structural change often needs no building permit, though sheathing replacement and window changes may. Most Redmond subdivisions require HOA approval of siding material and color. Lead-safe rules apply on pre-1978 houses in Overlake and Idylwood.
Redmond siding questions
How do I know if my siding is hardboard or OSB?
Look at a bottom edge or a cut end. Swelling, flaking and a fibrous or chip texture are typical. A contractor can confirm.
Can I repair a few bad boards?
Yes, short term. Once the problem spreads around the house, replacement is the better spend.
Should I replace windows at the same time?
If they are original, often yes. Flashing new windows into new siding is cleaner and cheaper together.
Will my HOA approve fiber cement?
Most Redmond HOAs do, in approved colors and profiles.