You’re getting ready to replace both the windows and siding on your house, but you’re unsure of which project should come first. You could probably do them both, but there could be budget limitations, structural issues, and other unforeseen problems that could prevent you from going ahead with both projects at the same time. So, what do the experts suggest in doing the two jobs. Should the jobs occur simultaneously or should they occur at different times? Here are some ideas concerning what should happen.
Finished Look
If you want a finished look, you’ll go with doing both the windows and siding at the same time. Coordinating both projects allows you to improve the different details with the windows and siding. You’ll want the style, trim work and colors to coordinate for the complete look. With older windows doing the siding first won’t accomplish the look you want to achieve. The same is true with the windows. When you have new windows and the siding looks old and worn out, you’ll likely not gain a harmonized appearance.
Windows Should be First
Installing the windows first allows whoever is doing the work the time it takes to place the windows precisely and cap them for protection. With windows requiring a moisture barrier, you wouldn’t want the siding done first as everything around the window, including the capping, would have to be removed. The capping process is a protective aluminum covering that’s included in a window installation. It covers the exposed frames. Removing the siding damages the capping with windows. With that in mind, it’s more practical to install the windows first and then place the siding around the windows.
Siding Should be Second
It’s practical to complete siding installation after the windows have been installed. If you do the siding first, there is always the chance that the siding can be scratched or damaged when you remove the windows and install them. The problem is when you do the siding first and remove it; the window capping aspect is damage that is waiting to happen and the windows will have to be capped again. Later on, if you put in new windows, you’ll have to pay for them to be capped. Whatever the number of windows to be finished, it could get expensive. If you go with installing the siding first, ask the contractor if it’s possible to complete the window capping for free when the time comes for the window installation.
One other problem that occurs with completing the siding first is when you install windows there is a moisture barrier that goes along with the installation and that barrier has to go behind the siding. What that translates to is any new siding will face being removed and installed again. This entire process could add significantly to your overall costs.
Find the Right Contractor
It’s much more efficient to use the same contractors to replace your windows and siding simultaneously. You’ll be saving money while getting the projects taken care of by the same people who understand the ins and outs of your home and how the process should flow, plus if you have any problems with the work, you have little worries as to finding out what went wrong in the installation process. Also, if you carefully choose a contractor, you can usually receive the benefits of a warranty that covers both parts and labor. It shouldn’t be difficult to find a contractor to do both the windows and siding consecutively, but the overall project will probably entail the windows being installed first.
Project Preparation
You’re thinking about hiring someone to complete your window and siding projects but before you do that, you’ll want to consult with at least three different contractors who know what they are doing and have good reputations along with the proper licensing, liability insurance and workmen’s compensation coverage. Once you have that information in hand, ask them the best and least expensive way to put your plans into action and if there are any particular rules for window and siding installations where you live. Also, don’t forget to ask your contractor about any tax advantages and credits for installations.
Most contractors will tell you that tackling a window and siding project involves putting in the windows first before going on to the siding. They’ll also probably tell you that once the windows are in place, you can finish off the window capping that goes around the window and not have to worry about it interfering at all with the installation of the siding.
What do you need the most and what can you afford? If your windows can withstand a year or more without replacement, it would probably be in your best interest to go with a siding installment. Maybe both projects are beyond your budget and you could postpone them until you are in a better place financially. You’re better off waiting to do both at the same time. You don’t want to pay for two different projects that are spaced that far apart. Whatever you decide to do, complete the online contact form and a representative will get back to you with answers to any of your questions. You’ll want to make an informed decision about window and siding installations and the right time to do them.
