Replacing your windows or siding is a great way to upgrade your home’s appearance and energy efficiency. But which should you do first?
Contractors recommend replacing windows and siding simultaneously, if possible. That prevents damage to the capping of your window frames during siding removal and gives contractors the opportunity to install a moisture barrier before the new window installation.
Costs
One of the top reasons homeowners choose to install new siding is to increase their home’s resale value. Engineered wood or vinyl siding offers a beautiful look that buyers will notice, and it requires far less maintenance than other options like brick or stucco.
In fact, the only upkeep required for these types of materials is the occasional wash with soap and water window replacement. A full siding replacement also offers several practical benefits that lower your energy costs and improve the overall structure of your house.
Window installation is a more complicated process than siding, and it can cost more depending on your home’s size and style. Symmetrical colonials and ranch homes take less time to side than Victorian-style houses with multiple turrets and dormers. Additionally, the choice to wrap your windows in a moisture barrier adds to the total price of the job. However, installing both windows and siding at the same time is more affordable than doing them separately.
Energy Efficiency
Siding and windows are great options to improve a home’s energy efficiency. They provide a good amount of insulation, which helps reduce heating and cooling costs. They also offer a variety of low-maintenance options to keep up with. Window and siding replacements are also considered some of the best investments homeowners can make for resale value. According to Remodeling’s 2018 Cost Vs. Value Report, homeowners will recoup 63.7% and 74% of the costs of a window or siding replacement, respectively.
Many homeowners choose to have both their windows and siding replaced at the same time, which saves on installation costs. It can be challenging to deal with contractors two times over the course of a renovation, but working with one company will simplify the process. It will also be easier to address any issues that may arise with the project, as you’ll have just one company to deal with. The installers will need easy access to the capping of the old windows during the installation of new ones to properly re-capping them.
Maintenance
If your windows are old and worn, then you should consider replacing them before having new siding installed. That way, you can avoid the costs of having both done at different times.
Siding is vulnerable to moisture, wind, and salt. Over time, sand and snow can damage it and leave stains. Replacing your siding helps protect the interior of your home, improve resale value, and cut energy costs.
Windows require a protective capping that goes around them to prevent moisture leaks. This capping is damaged if the siding crew removes it to install the windows, so you’ll have to pay extra to have it re-capped.
Replacing your windows and siding at the same time also ensures that the color and style of both will match well. That’s more attractive and adds to the curb appeal of your home. You’ll also be more likely to get a discount if you get both projects done at the same time.
Curb Appeal
Curb appeal is an important concept for homeowners because it adds to the value of a home. It’s the first impression a potential buyer will have and it can make them or break their interest in a property.
A nice yard, a fresh coat of paint and well-maintained windows all increase the curb appeal of a home. Adding flowers to the yard, putting up a mailbox and new address numbers or replacing an old doorbell can also help.
Replacing both the siding and windows at once is an excellent way to add curb appeal because it will allow you to match the color of the window trim to that of the siding. The addition of shutters is another great way to boost curb appeal as it will add more character and a more traditional feel to the home. It will also draw the eye to the windows and highlight them. In turn, that can help sell the home faster and for more money.