When it comes to home improvement, one of the most impactful upgrades you can make is updating your home's exterior, particularly your windows and siding. Both elements play a crucial role in not only the aesthetic appeal of your home but also its overall functionality.

From keeping your energy costs low to protecting your home from harsh weather, the exterior of your home is its first line of defense. Some local experts spoke with House & Home to explain exactly why updating your windows and siding is essential, how they work together, and why replacing both at the same time can be a smart investment.

Energy Efficiency and Cost Savings
Old, drafty windows are one of the biggest culprits of energy loss in homes. Over time, window seals can wear out, frames can warp and glass can lose its insulating properties.

"According to Energy.gov, 30% of home heating energy is lost through the windows themselves, so choosing a window with a good solar heat gain percentage can dramatically decrease or increase that number," explains Eric Rosenello from Rosenello's Windows Siding & Roofing.

The solution is new, energy-efficient windows that can dramatically reduce heat transfer year-round. Double or triple-pane glass with gas fills and Low-E (low emissivity) coatings can prevent heat from escaping during the winter and block UV rays during the summer.

"When we're working with a client, we typically suggest Anderson windows, either the 200 or 400 series products, as they're extremely efficient and have an outstanding reputation for longevity and warranties. Installing this type of window leads to a reduction in your heating and cooling costs, potentially saving you hundreds of dollars annually," says Vic Fiore, Magnolia Home Remodeling Group's co-owner.

While siding may not seem like an energy-related improvement to some, it plays a big role when it comes to insulation. Modern siding options like vinyl, fiber cement or insulated siding can provide an additional layer of thermal resistance, keeping your home warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer. Insulated siding also helps to prevent air infiltration, which can contribute to energy loss. When combined with energy-efficient windows, these exterior upgrades can significantly reduce your energy bills.

Protection from the Elements
Windows serve as one of your home's barriers against the outside world. High-quality windows protect a structure from moisture, wind and temperature fluctuations; even more advanced windows are designed to handle severe weather conditions, including high winds, heavy rain and snow. Properly installed windows with high-quality frames prevent water from entering your home, which can otherwise lead to mold, rot and structural damage.

"Of course, windows and siding play an integral part in your home's energy efficiency and the prevention of air infiltration. But having your windows properly flashed will not only prevent air from getting inside your home, it also prevents any water damage during severe bouts of weather, a complication that homeowners don't always consider," shares Adam Parnes, VP marketing at Global Home Improvement.

Likewise, siding acts as a shield for your home's exterior. It protects the underlying structure from moisture, pests and the effects of extreme weather. For example, fiber cement siding is highly resistant to water damage, pests and fire, while vinyl siding is durable and can withstand high winds. Both materials ensure that the home's framework remains dry and protected from external factors that could cause long-term damage; a third option is composite siding.

"ASCEND composite siding is also an excellent option for homeowners," Fiore notes. "It's super durable, fire-rated, and comes in a wide assortment of colors."

Boosting Curb Appeal and Home Value
Aesthetic appeal is another major factor when it comes to replacing windows. Updated windows can enhance the overall look of your home, giving it a fresh, modern appearance. Stylish window designs, such as bay windows or large picture windows, can create a focal point that elevates your home's curb appeal. This visual improvement can have a direct impact on your home's resale value, as prospective buyers are often drawn to homes with new, energy-efficient windows.

Just like windows, new siding can also transform the look of your house. Whether you choose the timeless look of fiber cement or the clean lines of modern vinyl, new siding can update and modernize your home's aesthetic, making it look newer and more attractive. A well-maintained and visually appealing exterior is crucial for increasing your home's value, especially if you're planning to sell in the near future.

"When it comes to boosting value and curb appeal, siding replacement currently lists at the top of the list on ROI for homeowners, with a return on investment of 94.7%," Rosenello begins. "Not only can you design the home of your dreams using different accents and types of materials in certain areas, but you are essentially boosting the value and curb appeal of your home."

Replacing Windows and Siding Together
While installing new windows or siding individually has its own benefits, doing both at the same time offers several distinct advantages that include a seamless installation, enhanced energy efficiency, cost savings and a unified aesthetic.

Replacing windows and siding at the same time also allows for better coordination between contractors, ensuring that both installations are done with precision. This avoids any misalignments or gaps between the window frames and siding, which can lead to air and water infiltration.

"The biggest benefit to replacing both is being able to properly flash windows when replacing windows and siding at the same time," Rosenello points out. "Most flashing requirements require you to remove or alter the siding to get your flashing onto the sheathing of the home. When doing the siding and windows at the same time, you can get down to the base layer of the house and ensure you are properly flashing the windows and doors."

When done simultaneously, contractors can ensure that insulation, flashing, and sealing around the windows and siding are completed without interference. This leads to better overall energy efficiency, reducing heat loss or air leakage more effectively than if each upgrade was done separately.

Lastly, scheduling both projects together can save you on labor costs, as contractors will only need to visit your home once for the installation and help to create a unified aesthetic. Many home improvement companies offer package deals or discounts for homeowners who opt to replace both windows and siding at the same time.

"By upgrading both windows and siding simultaneously, you can create a cohesive, updated look for your home. Everything fits perfectly together like a puzzle," says Fiore. "Matching window trims and siding styles can create a more thoughtful exterior that boosts curb appeal and increases your home's value."

The experts agree: Updating your home's exterior, particularly your windows and siding, is an investment that pays off in a multitude of ways. It not only enhances the look of your home, but also improves its energy efficiency, provides better protection from the elements and increases the overall value of your property. Replacing both windows and siding at the same time maximizes these benefits, ensuring that your home is both beautiful and functional for years to come. Whether you're planning to stay in your home long-term or preparing to sell, these upgrades are a smart decision that will bring lasting value.

RESOURCES
Global Home Improvement
Serving N.J. and Pa.
(888) 234-2929
GlobalHomeInc.com

Magnolia Home Remodeling Group
Union, N.J.
(855) 624-6655
MagnoliaHome Remodeling.com

Rosenello's Windows Siding & Roofing
Bensalem, Pa.
(215) 244-3993
RosenellosWindows.com

Published (and copyrighted) in Luxury Living Special Edition,
published by House & Home, Volume 24, Issue 10 (August 2024)
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