How is the required square footage for exterior siding typically calculated?

The required square footage for exterior siding is typically calculated using area estimates based on wall dimensions. This method involves measuring the height and width of the walls that will be covered with siding to determine the total area. The calculations are straightforward: multiply the height by the width for each wall section and then sum these areas to determine the total square footage needed for the siding.

This approach is efficient as it provides a comprehensive view of the surface area that needs to be covered, allowing for accurate material estimates.

Using only linear measurements would not take into account the full area that needs siding, ignoring height and potentially leading to underestimation. Counting individual siding pieces is labor-intensive and impractical for large projects, as it does not provide an overall area calculation. Volume estimates are irrelevant in this context, as siding is typically assessed based on surface area rather than three-dimensional volume.