Windows and Siding

[MIKE IN lINO III]

This is kind of like the chicken and egg debate...

I need to install new windows and siding. I may not be able to do them at the same time so.... which one do I install first? Or does it matter?

Thx,

Mike

[polarsusd81]

Windows first would be best. Energy improvements before cosmetics. It will also open up your options a bit as far as the type of windows you go with.

[eurolarva]

Windows first. If you do new windows instead of replacement windows they have a 4 inch nailing flange that needs to go under the siding. So if you replace the windows you will need to remove the siding.

[Tom7227]

Care needs to be taken with the windows. I wanted to do it about 15 years ago and the contractor told me that if I replaced the frames I would have to alter openings to comply with current codes. Size of openings were a big factor. I realized that if I changed the size of the openings I would probably end up having to redo the interior of the home as well. We ended up just replacing the sashes and then having the frames wraped when the siding went on.

I think there's a component in the stimulus package for energy improvements so check that end out as well as it may help pay for more than you think you can afford right now.

[Black_Bay]

Mike have you checked on prices yet? It might be cheaper to buy a new house than reside and get new windows, especially at the same time. Windows are actually pretty easy to install especially if they use the same rough in size. If you're at all handy you should consider doing at least the lower level windows yourself.

[MIKE IN lINO III]

Black Bay, I'd be hard pressed to move from my current location.

I could and probably will install the windows myself along with the help of my brother in law that does siding.

Thanks for the replys.

I was just wondering if there was a preference in work order.

Mike

[bryguy247]

For sure do the windows first. In part of the Stimulus package, if you install windows that have a U-Factor of .30 or less and a Solar Heat Gain Coeficient of .30 or less, you are able to recieve up to $1500 back on your taxes. $1500 is the max. and they will only pay 30% of the cost of the materials (not labor) up to the $1500. So when you buy windows they will have a sticker on them with the two factors on them, so that you know what your getting. It is important to pay attention to both numbers on each style of window even if it is the same manufacture because the numbers will vary from double hungs to casments to gliders etc.

[crothmeier]

I just did 5 replacement windows in my house. Had i been able to afford siding i would have done full-frames with the nail-fin, as thats the best way to get the best install.

Since i could only do some windows i put in the replacement ones, and i'm impressed with them. I used to sell 3 major brands working for a lumberyard, i put in Thermo-Techs made out of St cloud, an all vinyl window, as long as you measure correctly, they go in easy and quickly. My dad and i got about 45min per window. And yes, KEEP THE RECIEPT and claim them on your taxes next year.

Have your local lumberyard guy come out, they will measusure for you, that way if they come in wrong your not liable! hehe. but be there when they do so you and him/her are on the same page with sizing.

[onlydrakes4me]

definately windows first. If you can find windows close to the same size as you already have I would sugest getting new construstion windows verses replacments. As a contractor I have installed both, but i prefer new construction windows (complete nail flange around window) vs replacments.

[hunter101]

yeah windows first, if you are going with replacement windows or any for that matter make sure to fur out your trim to allow for extra insulation under the new siding. it will be worth it. I didnt and was only able to put 1/4" insulation under the siding. I think the old wood siding was warmer then the new vinyl