Should You Replace Windows or Siding First?

Joseph Justice
Sep 17
3 min read

When tackling major exterior upgrades, many homeowners face the common question: should you replace your windows or siding first? Both are significant investments that greatly affect energy efficiency, curb appeal, and long-term home value. Deciding on the right order isn’t always simple, but understanding the benefits and challenges of each option will help you make the best choice for your home. By exploring factors like structural needs, budget, and long-term goals, you can ensure your project runs smoothly and delivers maximum benefits.

Why Order Matters

The sequence of replacing windows and siding matters because each installation impacts the other. For example, replacing siding first and then windows could mean redoing trim work or damaging newly installed siding when windows are replaced. On the other hand, replacing windows first may require careful planning to ensure siding adjustments are seamless. By evaluating the condition of both elements, homeowners can prioritize what needs immediate attention while aligning with long-term goals.

Benefits of Replacing Windows First

For many homeowners, replacing windows before siding makes sense. Windows are a critical part of your home’s insulation system. Old or failing windows can allow drafts, increase energy costs, and reduce comfort inside your home. Upgrading windows first means you’ll address any gaps, flashing issues, or frame repairs before installing new siding. This ensures your siding contractor can create a tight, finished seal around each window. If your windows are in poor shape, prioritizing them will improve energy efficiency right away and protect your investment in siding down the road.

Benefits of Replacing Siding First

There are situations where replacing siding before windows is the better option. If your siding is severely damaged, rotting, or no longer protecting your home from moisture, it may pose risks to your property’s structure. By addressing siding first, you’re securing the home’s envelope and preventing further deterioration. Additionally, new siding can help reveal hidden issues, such as water damage around windows, which can then be corrected during the next stage of upgrades. For homeowners seeking an immediate boost to curb appeal, replacing siding first may also deliver faster visible results.

Key Factors to Consider

When deciding whether to replace windows or siding first, consider:

Age and Condition: Are your windows drafty or your siding warped? The element in the worst condition should often take priority.
Budget: Spreading projects across phases might make financial sense, but replacing both at once can save money on labor and materials.
Efficiency Goals: If your primary goal is lowering energy bills, starting with windows may bring faster results.
Timeline: Consider how quickly you want results and whether you can handle multiple disruptions if projects are staggered.

Ideal Scenario: Replace Both Together

While not always possible, replacing windows and siding together is the most efficient approach. Doing both simultaneously allows contractors to perfectly integrate flashing, insulation, and trim, reducing the risk of gaps or inefficiencies. It also minimizes labor costs, as contractors only need to prepare your home once, and ensures a cohesive, polished appearance. Homeowners who choose this route often enjoy long-term performance and savings.

Expert Guidance for Your Project

At Pro Siding Systems, founded in 2016 with one goal in mind: specialize. Our certificate: GAF Master Elite. We work with trusted brands including Mastic, Norandex, Vortex, James Hardie, Plygem, Platinum Metals, Certainteed, and GAF. Our business is built on a foundation of integrity, transparency, and honesty, which means we’ll help you determine the best order for your unique project. For homeowners in Fort Wayne, IN, where weather conditions vary, we guide you to make a decision that protects your home and delivers maximum return on investment.

Why Professional Advice Matters

Choosing between siding and windows first isn’t a one-size-fits-all decision. Each home is unique, and a professional contractor can help assess hidden damage, insulation needs, and budget concerns. Working with a qualified installer ensures that your investment aligns with your long-term goals and provides lasting performance.

Final Thoughts

Ultimately, the decision to replace windows or siding first depends on your home’s current condition, priorities, and budget. While replacing both at the same time is often ideal, focusing on the most pressing issue will protect your home and improve comfort. With the right guidance, you can plan a smooth, cost-effective project that enhances both efficiency and curb appeal.