Should You Replace Windows or Siding First?

September 26, 2024

siding in thorndale Additional curb appeal is always a benefit for homeowners considering a remodel. But, how do you know what projects to tackle and which will yield the biggest return on investment? In the last few years, people have been staying home more (whether because of the cost of going out or just the desire to spend more time relaxing in their comfort zones). This means more people are noticing things they’d like to make better. According to the National Association of Realtors (NAR) Magazine, over half of surveyed homeowners in the United States reported wanting to remodel their homes in 2022, with 84% of those reporting a greater sense of happiness at home after their projects were complete.

So – which project- windows or siding – will not only add curb appeal, but also increase your home value, and give you some added happiness for your time at home? We’re glad you asked.

A Beautiful Exterior Upgrade

vinyl siding

Photo credit: Today’s Homeowner

No matter which you choose, windows and siding are both great investments in terms of exterior home projects. According to a report from Today’s Homeowner in 2023, here are some of these returns break down:

  • Wood Windows – 95.5% ROI
  • Vinyl Windows – 90.1% ROI
  • Vinyl Siding – 91% ROI
  • Fiber-Cement Siding – 92.7%

So, based on these amazing ROI numbers, maybe the question shouldn’t be which is worth the investment, but maybe which you should tackle first. The answer is simple: do both at the same time! When you replace your windows, your siding may be damaged in the process. If you replace your siding first, a window may get broken. For both cost and efficiency purposes, tackling these two jobs simultaneously makes the most sense. Below, we have broken down the top 3 reasons to replace windows and siding together.

Top 3 Reasons to Replace Windows & Siding Together

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  • Cost. For most homeowners, the decision for which project to complete comes down to your budget. Whether you are hiring an independent contractor or doing it yourself, the cost for materials and labor will be cheaper overall if you bundle these two together. Not only will you save on the cost of labor because your contractor will not have to come back to your home and will only have to demo one time, but many stores will offer package discounts for siding and windows. Do your research, and you can get the best deal.
  • Mold Prevention. When you remove the siding of your home, you run the risk of letting in moisture. Moisture then produces mold. When not prevented or removed, mold can become a significant health hazard. Removing your siding and windows at the same time allows the contractor the ability to wrap your home in Tyvek and install insulation properly, so no gaps are left to let in mother nature. Removing these items separately can damage the insulation and home wrap, leaving small, exposed areas where mold can grow.
  • Aesthetics. When you replace your siding and windows at the same time, you give your home a pleasing and refreshing update that will look amazing. If you decide to replace your windows first but leave cracked or dented siding, it can be aesthetically disappointing. In addition, combining these two jobs allows the designers (most likely the homeowner) the ability to test, in real-time, how the window color, trim, and siding will look together.

Save on Your Heating Bill This Winter

frost on a windowOver time, connections begin to loosen. Heat escapes out of the frames of your windows, while cold air seeps in. Meanwhile, your siding is the last line of defense to keep warm in and cold out, but its ability to do this can decline as the years go by.

People often get their windows replaced to improve their home’s energy profile, but energy-efficient siding can also go a long way. And if you neglect your siding for too long, it can become a serious issue that costs you money. If you are considering remodeling, you may also want to think about replacing your roof.

Get Started on Your Exterior Remodeling Project

If you are on a budget or unsure how to handle this specific house project, we encourage you to reach out to our team at Milanese Remodeling. We are experienced contractors who know how to help you complete your home renovations efficiently, timely, and within budget. We would love to work with you. So, schedule a consultation with us before your neighbor does.