This is not another “the chicken or the egg” thing, there’s actually a right answer here
Installing windows before siding prevents extra trim and siding work, whether you're adding new construction windows or upgrading your existing replacement windows.
Window capping costs several hundred dollars or more, so installing windows first helps you avoid recapping old windows and then capping new ones.
You need to remove siding to install new construction windows, but replacement windows fit from the interior without removing your existing siding.
Hiring a local siding professional provides expert guidance on installation order and ensures your moisture barrier, capping, and trim work stay properly sealed.
If you’re planning an upgrade of your home’s exteriors, you’re likely reviewing options to revamp your windows and siding. Before you dive into the project, be sure to determine whether to install new windows or siding first. In most cases, professionals recommend installing windows before siding to avoid extra trim and siding work. Let’s review the pros, cons, and factors to consider when installing windows first.
In almost all cases, it’s better to install your windows before your siding so you won’t have to redo trim and siding work. Here's a full breakdown based on the type of new windows you’re installing.
New construction windows means adding a completely new window (frames, window panes, trim, and more) where there originally wasn’t one. These are usually installed from the exterior of the house. You may have to remove trim or siding to put them in, so always do them before siding if possible. You may also need to put in a new moisture barrier, capping, or repair the framing. The project often includes waterproofing the exterior, which is best left to a professional.
Replacement windows simply means upgrading your existing windows. Because replacement windows are installed from the interior, you could put them in before or after your siding. You won't need to remove siding to install them, but check with your contractor to see if your framing, capping, or moisture barrier needs repair (more on this below). Replacement windows tend to be easier to install and can be a project for moderate DIYers.
Think of your siding as the finishing touch to your project. Leave siding installation for last if possible, so you won't have to rip out and redo any of your work.
As already mentioned, the golden rule is windows before siding. There are several components to a window aside from just the frame and glass to keep in mind during installation.
If you’re installing new windows, you’ll likely need new capping around your windows, which is better to install before your siding. Capping is a protective covering, usually made of aluminum, that surrounds your window frames. It seals the gap between your windows and wall, protecting your home from leaks and water damage.
If you were to tackle siding first, the capping on your old windows could get damaged while removing the siding. You’ll need to recap the existing windows, then cap your new windows when you install them—doubling the expense. Depending on the number of windows, it could cost you several hundred dollars or more to cap and recap them.
Beyond capping, your windows have a moisture barrier that sits behind the siding. If you replace your siding first, you may have to tear off some of the new siding to install your moisture barrier, then reinstall your siding, which could add to the cost.
If you’re hiring the same contractor to do your windows and siding and you choose to do your siding first, ask about free window capping for when they install your new windows.
If you’re adding a window where there originally wasn’t one (in the case of new construction windows), you’ll have to carefully remove your siding to install them. You don’t have to remove siding to replace windows if you use replacement windows and your framing and moisture barrier are in good condition.
If your budget is forcing you to make an either-or decision, windows are almost always the better investment. Not only are new windows aesthetically pleasing, new windows can help insulate your home, save you money on energy bills, and increase the comfort of your home. When you replace your windows, you may also want to reinsulate any gaps between the window and your wall.
While new siding can look nice and offers your home protection, you can always budget for new siding down the road. Local siding contractors can help estimate how much new siding for your home costs.
New windows and siding have the power to do more than boost your curb appeal. They can increase your home’s energy efficiency, which in turn decreases your energy consumption and—more importantly—decreases your energy bill. Siding offers extra layers of insulation to your home, but should you go a step further with insulated siding?
As a homeowner, you have tons of house siding options to make your home look good and protect it from the elements. Keeping factors like budget, climate, and maintenance in mind, you can choose between some of the more popular styles, including:
Vinyl siding
Stucco siding
Wood siding
Fiber cement siding
Metal siding
Stone siding
Brick siding
If you decide to go the insulated route, you’ll have to stick to vinyl siding. Insulated vinyl siding is one of the more expensive types of vinyl siding. It’s an upgrade from the norm where rigid foam insulation is attached to the back of the siding to fill and block air gaps. Not only does this increase energy efficiency, but it can also soundproof your home from outside noise. Insulated vinyl siding has more material than typical vinyl siding, making it heavier and more expensive to ship and install. The cost of materials and installation will give your siding project a higher budget, but insulated vinyl siding is guaranteed to last longer than most other siding options.
Above all, your decision depends on what your house needs the most. If your siding is in bad shape but your windows can hold up a little longer, address the most pressing issue first. If both projects can wait, it can make better financial sense to hold off for both to avoid duplicative work and expenses.
Steps to take for successful window and siding installation:
Ask for contractor referrals from family and friends.
Get quotes from at least three local companies and read reviews.
Ask for the contractor’s advice on the best and most affordable way to tackle your projects.
Check to see if there are guidelines for window and siding installation specific to your municipality.
Look into available tax credits. Some energy-efficient windows qualify for a federal credit.
The guys at PaveWay are top notch. From the estimate to the job being completed,all was done in a timely and professional manner. I myself was a DOT Engineer Inspector(know what to look for) and got to talking with Cameron and he himself was a Contract inspector for a few years,same job as...
All Star Paving and SealingI highly recommend KTM construction! I will look no where else for anything that needs to be done, in or out side of our property. The level of craftsmanship is 5 star service across the board! The level of detail, knowledge and professionalism is 5 star service across the board! Ken is a...
KTM Construction, LLCI purchased the "Big Deal": $199.00 for exterior pressure-washing of one- or two-story home up to 2,000 square feet. They cleaned the siding only. I wasn't aware when I bought the Big Deal that they would not do any other surfaces other than the siding (i.e. sides of the gutters or stucco). I...
Complete Home ServicesThis brownstone is historical and the carpentry work is very detailed. I was very happy to secure a company in NY and living in OH to complete the request. Wood work on this brownstone has been existing since approximately 1888 and West side did a GREAT JOB. I will not be able to...
Westside Home ImprovementNice group of workers, very friendly. Day 1 covered everything before starting, seemed very organized. Things seemed to be going great. Day 2 they didn't show up until around 10:00a.m. and work crew was cut in half, was told they had another job. Day 3 they didn't show up until around...
CertaPro Painters of ColumbusThe work went great! Couldn't ask for better. Joel set a work start date. About the time of the storms that may have been associated with Sandy. He was half a day late. They set up on a Thursday. On Friday they had a full crew at work. By Monday they were finishing up. Now, the best...
NJW ConstructionA few months ago, a tree branch fell across my car, leaving a series of dents across the hood and driver's side fender. I took it to Rife's after reading the Angie's List reviews. Rife's did a great job! My car looks like new. And they made the process as easy as possible. When I came in...
Rife's Autobody IncI received an email from Angie's List offering Car Detailing 4 U's services for $99. Coming from Angie's List, I expected this to be a highly dependable and qualified company that was known for doing exceptional work. I set the appointment for them to come to my home. They were arrive at...
We first had Mark fix the back patio and liked his work so much we had him make a brick patio on the side of the house. When we decided to change our concrete walkway to brick, we wanted Mark to do the job because his prices were fair and he did such good work on t he other two projects.
Mark Monnette MasonryI was very pleased with the cost and end result. I truly expected this job to cost me 50% more than it did. When you factor quality and cost, I would highly recommend Mark's services and plan to use him in the future. The best part was, I asked Mark to match the paint color in one section...
Fresh Touch Custom Painting Inc.From average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.
The type of material used and the size of the project will determine metal siding cost. Use this guide to explore all of the factors that affect the cost.
Siding replacement costs around $11,000 on average, but several factors influence what you’ll pay. Our guide breaks down all the siding cost factors.
Love the rustic look of log cabins but want a more durable siding? Use this vinyl log siding cost guide to see if this is a good alternative for your home.
Installing new siding can boost your home’s curb appeal. Learn how long siding takes to install and what can affect your installation timeline.
Discover who to hire for metal siding installation and who to hire to install metal siding. See how the pros work, and get started today.
Understanding wood siding pros and cons will help you decide if this maintenance-heavy but timeless and versatile material is right for you and your home.
