Windows that are in bad shape allow conditioned air to escape your home and cause moisture leaks. Replacing your old window frames and casing protects your home from weather damage and can improve its curb appeal.
Most professional siding and vinyl windows installation contractors recommend replacing your windows before your siding if you can’t afford to do both projects at the same time. However, there are some exceptions to this rule.
Cost of Materials
Just like your fourth-grade teacher told you while you were working on that big science fair project, “Tackle one thing at a time.” While it’s generally a good idea to do that, there are some home renovation projects that make more sense to multitask.
Siding is an important protective layer for your home that keeps moisture and other debris from penetrating wood areas. If you have rotten or damaged siding, the moisture that results can lead to structural damage that grows worse over time.
New windows will also improve your home’s curb appeal, making it look more modern and inviting. It’s a quick and affordable way to dramatically increase your home’s value.
During window replacement, contractors install capping—a protective covering that seals the gap between your home’s window frames and exterior wall. Putting in new siding before the windows can result in marring the capping during installation, which can add several hundred dollars to your costs. Replacing both windows and siding at the same time ensures that moisture barriers and capping are installed only once, saving you money.
Cost of Installation
Getting new windows and siding at the same time reduces installation costs. It also lets you upgrade to energy-efficient windows, which improve your home’s overall insulation value and lowers your utility bills.
When your contractor installs your replacement windows, they’ll need to put a moisture barrier around the frames. This may require them to cut into or remove your existing siding and can add several hundred dollars to the cost of your project.
On the other hand, if you get your window replacement first, the process of installing new siding will likely damage the capping around your windows. You’ll then need to replace the damaged capping, which can cost even more than replacing your siding itself. It’s best to avoid this hassle and get your window replacement done first.
Energy Efficiency
When you upgrade to energy efficient windows, you can enjoy a 15% to 30% savings on your energy bill. These windows also help reduce the noise level in your home, making it a more relaxing place to be. Plus, some newer windows have safety features like laminated glass to help protect you and your family in the event of a break-in.
Many home improvement experts recommend tackling window and siding replacement at the same time. This allows contractors to properly install a moisture barrier with your windows and prevents damage to the metal caps on your window frames. It also helps ensure a consistent look that will complement your exterior walls and boost curb appeal.
The only exception is if your windows are in bad shape and need to be replaced sooner rather than later. This is because leaving damaged windows can lead to rotting boards and other costly structural issues down the line. So, if your windows are in bad shape, focus on them first to avoid expensive damage to the rest of your home.
Curb Appeal
Many real estate agents and appraisers agree that curb appeal is a critical factor when it comes to selling a home. Buyers tend to pay more attention to homes with a good amount of curb appeal, which can include things like a nice front lawn, well-maintained shrubbery and flowers, and an attractive walkway leading up to the house.
Boosting curb appeal is not difficult, and it doesn’t have to be expensive. Small things such as mowing the lawn regularly, removing weeds and dead plants, and hanging a new mailbox can make all the difference in your home’s first impression.
Replacing windows and siding at the same time can give your home a whole new look and improve its curb appeal. It’s also a good idea to replace your windows as soon as they begin to show signs of wear, so you can avoid water damage and other problems. This will allow you to enjoy the benefits of a fresh and updated exterior for a longer period of time.
