Inputs
All dimensions in feet, unless noted.
After side laps; typical profiles cover 36 inches.
If wall height exceeds this, end-lap allowance applies.
Wall Segments
| # | Length (ft) | Height (ft) | Remove |
|---|---|---|---|
| Add each straight wall run separately. The tool totals areas and panelization per wall. | |||
Openings (windows, doors, vents)
| # | Width (ft) | Height (ft) | Remove |
|---|---|---|---|
| Perimeter of openings is used for J-channel length. | |||
Costs (optional)
Tip: tweak any field and press Calculate.
Results
Net Area
0 sqft
0 sqft
Gross Area
0 sqft
0 sqft
Panels
0
0
Total sheets required (rounded up)
Screws
0
0
Based on screws per square foot
Panel LF
0 lf
0 lf
J-Channel
0 lf
0 lf
Corners
0 lf
0 lf
Starter/Base
0 lf
0 lf
Cost Summary
Panels$0.00
Trims (J, corners, starter)$0.00
Screws$0.00
Labor$0.00
Total$0.00
Example Data
| Item | Value | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Walls | 20×10 ft and 15×10 ft | Two segments |
| Openings | Door 3×7 ft; windows 3×4 ft ×2 | Three openings |
| Effective width | 36 inches | Profile coverage |
| Waste | 10% | Cuts, damage, color matching |
| Accessories | Starter, corners, J-channel | All included |
| Costs | $2.80/sqft panel; $1.25/lf trim | $0.05 screw |
Formulas Used
- Total wall area = Σ(length × height)
- Total openings area = Σ(width × height)
- Net siding area = max(Wall area − Openings area, 0)
- Gross area = Net area × (1 + Waste%)
- Effective panel width (ft) = Effective width (in) ÷ 12
- Vertical panels: panels on wall = ceil(wall length ÷ effective width)
- Horizontal panels: rows on wall = ceil(wall height ÷ effective width)
- Panel linear footage = Σ(panels × wall height) for vertical; Σ(rows × wall length) for horizontal
- J-channel length = Σ(perimeter of openings) × (1 + Waste%)
- Corner trim length = Corner count × average wall height × (1 + Waste%)
- Starter length = Total wall length × (1 + Waste%)
- Screws = Gross area × screws per sqft (rounded up)
- End-lap joints when wall height > max stock length: joints per panel = ceil(height ÷ stock) − 1; extra length = joints × endlap
How to Use This Calculator
- Select Orientation and confirm the effective panel coverage width.
- Add each wall segment with its length and height.
- Add all openings. The tool subtracts these from the siding area.
- Set waste, fastener density, corner count, and optional end-lap allowance.
- Enter unit costs to estimate materials, labor, and total project cost.
- Click Calculate. Use Download CSV or Download PDF to export results.
- Use the sample dataset to see a complete example instantly.
Always verify quantities against manufacturer profile data and local codes.
Typical Panel Profiles and Net Coverage
Example values—always confirm with manufacturer datasheets before ordering.
| Profile | Nominal Width (in) | Effective Coverage (in) | Rib Spacing (in) | Typical Gauges |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| R-Panel | 36 | 36 | 12 | 26, 24 |
| AG-Panel | 36 | 36 | 9 | 29, 26 |
| Standing Seam (snap) | 16 | 15.75 | — | 26, 24 |
| Corrugated 2.5" | 26 | 24 | 2.67 | 29, 26 |
Fastener Density & Waste Guidance
Approximate ranges—verify with wind maps, specs, and local officials.
| Exposure / Condition | Screws per sqft | Waste allowance | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Low exposure (inland) | 0.8–1.0 | 5–7% | Straight walls, few penetrations |
| Moderate exposure | 1.0–1.3 | 7–12% | Mixed openings and trims |
| Coastal / high wind | 1.3–1.8 | 10–15% | Closer spacing; consult engineering |
| Complex geometry | 1.2–1.6 | 12–18% | Short runs, angles, dormers |
FAQs
It’s the net width each sheet covers after side laps. Manufacturer datasheets list this value. Enter it in inches to ensure correct panel counts.
Complex layouts, color matching, and end-laps often require additional allowance. Many projects use 7–12% waste; adjust per profile and installer preference.
Screws are approximated by a density per square foot. Change the value to match your pattern, rib spacing, and substrate requirements.
Yes. Provide a maximum stock length and end-lap allowance. The tool estimates extra joints and waste where heights exceed available lengths.
It estimates linear footage for standard accessories. Costs can reflect different gauges or trim profiles by updating the $/lf value.