Siding & windows guide
Siding & Window Replacement: Costs, Materials, and How to Hire
New siding and windows are among the highest-ROI home improvements. Know your material options, what to budget, and how to find a contractor who won't cut corners.
Siding Materials & Typical Costs
Siding protects your home from weather and defines its curb appeal. Here's how the main materials compare.
Vinyl Siding
$3–$8/sq ft installed
Lifespan: 20–40 years
Pros: Low maintenance, affordable, wide color range
Cons: Can crack in extreme cold, less premium look
Energy rating: Moderate
Fibre Cement (HardiePlank)
$6–$13/sq ft installed
Lifespan: 30–50 years
Pros: Fire-resistant, rot-proof, looks like wood
Cons: Heavier, requires professional install
Energy rating: Good
Wood Siding
$7–$15/sq ft installed
Lifespan: 20–40 years
Pros: Classic look, paintable, natural insulator
Cons: Requires regular painting/staining, susceptible to rot
Energy rating: Good
Engineered Wood
$4–$10/sq ft installed
Lifespan: 20–30 years
Pros: More durable than natural wood, lower maintenance
Cons: Can swell if moisture gets in
Energy rating: Good
Metal (Steel/Aluminium)
$4–$12/sq ft installed
Lifespan: 40–70 years
Pros: Extremely durable, fire-resistant, low maintenance
Cons: Can dent, conducts heat/cold
Energy rating: Moderate
Window Types & Typical Costs
Window replacement improves energy efficiency, comfort, and curb appeal. Here's what to know before you buy.
Double-Hung
$300–$800 per window installed
Most rooms — easy to clean, classic look
Casement
$400–$900 per window installed
Side-by-side openings, excellent ventilation and seal
Sliding
$300–$700 per window installed
Wide openings, contemporary homes
Bay/Bow
$1,200–$3,500 per unit installed
Living rooms, adds space and light
Picture/Fixed
$200–$600 per window installed
Views and light where ventilation isn't needed
Always specify double-pane or triple-pane Low-E glass for energy efficiency. Look for ENERGY STAR certification and a U-factor below 0.30 for cold climates.
Signs It's Time to Replace
Siding
Warping, buckling, or rotting panels
Replace soon — moisture is getting in
Fading or peeling paint that won't hold
Surface failure — consider replacement over repainting
High heating/cooling bills
Old siding may lack adequate insulation
Mold or mildew growth
Moisture intrusion — inspect for underlying damage
Windows
Condensation between panes
Seal failure — the insulating gas has escaped
Drafts around frames
Weatherstripping or frame failure — replace or reseal
Difficulty opening or closing
Frame warping — may indicate moisture damage
Visible rot or damage to frames
Replace immediately to prevent further water intrusion
DIY vs Hiring a Pro
DIY
Suitable for:
- Replacing a single window in good condition
- Painting or caulking existing siding
Not suitable for:
- Full siding replacement
- Multiple window replacements
- Any job involving flashing, moisture barriers, or structural framing
- Homes with lead paint (pre-1978)
Hire a Pro
Why hire a pro:
- Improper installation voids manufacturer warranties
- Flashing and moisture barriers require expertise to install correctly
- Structural issues behind old siding need professional assessment
- Energy efficiency ratings depend on correct installation
Frequently Asked Questions
Siding and window costs vary by material, home size, and regional labor rates. Figures reflect typical US market rates as of 2026 and are for budgeting purposes only.
Ready to upgrade your home's exterior?
Find a verified siding and window contractor near you — free, no commitment.