Siding and windows are key elements in a home’s exterior that boost its look, longevity, and energy efficiency. They are also strategic upgrades that pay for themselves in multiple ways.
When it comes to window and siding replacement, homeowners often wonder whether they should do one project before the other. The right contractor can address both simultaneously to avoid mismatched aesthetics.
Curb Appeal
Your home’s exterior is the first impression that potential buyers or passersby get. Having a well-maintained, clean appearance will leave them with the positive feeling of a house they’re eager to explore. This is the essence of curb appeal, and it can be achieved by a combination of several elements. Siding and windows play a significant role in this aspect of your home.
Siding transforms your home, adding color and texture to its facade. From modern metal to vinyl, your choice of siding material impacts your home’s architectural style and visual appeal. When properly paired with window replacements, it establishes a cohesive canvas that improves your home’s curb appeal.
The right color, window design, and other details can make your home feel eye-catching and welcoming to those who visit. Additionally, a fresh coat of paint or power washing can instantly boost your curb appeal. You can also experiment with contrasting trim colors and window styles to add focal points and depth to your facade. Just be sure that the contrasting features blend seamlessly and create a coherent aesthetic rather than detracting from it.
New windows and siding have a high resale value, helping you recoup a large portion of your initial investment. They provide long-term benefits such as improved energy efficiency and comfort, making your home a more pleasant place to live for you and your family.
Energy Efficiency
When paired with insulated windows, energy-efficient siding can provide a boost to your home’s energy efficiency. This is because it helps to reduce the workload of your heating and cooling systems, contributing to energy savings. Energy-efficient windows are also designed to keep your home comfortable year-round while reducing external noise.
To achieve this, the best window materials will come with thermal breaks and low-emissivity coatings. This prevents heat and UV rays from escaping the house while keeping warm or cool air in the house depending on the weather conditions.
In addition, a layer of foam insulation can be added to the wall, providing a higher R-value and improving your home’s energy performance. This is because it minimizes the flow of air and reduces moisture penetration, which can damage the walls. The R-value can also help to protect the integrity of the wall, which will be important if you are considering adding more siding in the future or even just repainting your existing exterior.
When choosing new windows and siding, be sure to work with a reputable NJ contractor who understands energy efficiency and can provide the right solutions for your home’s needs. Look for products with a high R-value and a track record of durability, as well as those that meet energy-efficiency standards suited to your climate. This will help to maximize your savings and make your home a more sustainable living environment.
Durability
The upfront costs of a window or siding replacement can be prohibitive for some homeowners, but this renovation is actually a smart investment that improves the home’s energy efficiency and curb appeal. These features boost the property’s market value, which can make it easier to sell the home in the future.
Modern windows and siding offer a range of durability options to suit any taste, style, and budget. LP Smartside and CertainTeed siding, for example, provide fire resistance, termite protection, and insulating layers that help reduce energy costs and make homes more comfortable year-round.
Wood siding offers a classic, natural aesthetic prized by many homeowners, but it requires high levels of upkeep to avoid moisture and rot problems. It is prone to insect damage, and if it’s not painted regularly can become susceptible to mold, mildew, and termites. It can last 20-30 years if properly maintained, but is typically a more costly option than other siding materials.
Vinyl is another affordable, low-maintenance choice, with a lifespan of up to 50 years. The advancements made in vinyl have increased its performance, offering UV protection and a wider variety of colors and styles to complement any architecture. Other durable options include fiber cement and brick, with a lifespan of 30-50 years. Fiber cement is resistant to fire, rot, and termite damage and comes in a number of versatile aesthetically appealing options.
Maintenance
Keeping windows and siding clean, addressing damage promptly, and performing routine inspections can help you enjoy a home that is both energy-efficient and visually appealing for years to come. Just as with your roof, landscaping, and appliances, your exterior materials require regular maintenance to function and look their best.
Repainting your siding every 5-10 years can protect the material from sun and weather, and keep it looking vibrant. It is important to choose a quality paint, such as HardiePaint, and to follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for cleaning. It is also important to sand the surface before applying new paint to ensure it adheres properly. Additionally, regularly examine your siding for warped or loose boards that can cause moisture damage, which gets worse over time.
When it comes to window and siding replacement, many homeowners find it easier to work with a contractor who can handle both projects at the same time. They can install the proper moisture barriers and capping, and they can also trim trees and replace any damaged wood before installing the new windows. This way, the entire exterior is protected from moisture and wind damage, which may cause additional expenses in the future. In addition, bundling the two projects can save you money, as you are paying for only one installation process instead of multiple.