When Remodeling, What Should Be Done First—Windows, Roof, or Siding?

Deep Dive Into the Big Question

When embarking on a major home exterior renovation, one of the most important—but often overlooked—questions is:

🏠 “When remodeling, what should be done first: windows, roof, or siding?”

The answer affects not just project sequencing, but also protection from weather damage, budget control, long-term durability, warranty validity, and even your home’s curb appeal. In this ultimate guide, we’ll cover:

• The importance of job sequencing
• Why roofing typically comes first
• When siding takes priority
• Optimal timing for window replacement
• Weather and regional insights for Northeast Ohio
• Real-world case studies
• Cost breakdowns and financing options
• Contractor selection and permitting advice
• Frequently asked questions
• Final step-by-step remodeling timeline

Whether you’re renovating in Jefferson, Youngstown, Conneaut, or Geneva, let this guide help you get your remodeling sequence—and results—right.

🔁 Why Sequencing Matters in Exterior Remodeling

Ordering roof, window, and siding replacements correctly is crucial. Otherwise, you risk:

1. Leaks and water damage during partial projects
2. Damaged or misaligned products installed out of sequence
3. Voided warranties due to improper flashing or integration
4. Re-work and increased costs from overlap mistakes
5. Extended project time with crews interfering with each other

A well-planned sequence ensures efficiency, less disruption, and a durable, beautiful final result.

1. Roofing: Why It Often Goes First

Let’s start with the most common first step: roof replacement.

🛡️ Roof Protects the Whole Home

A sound roof is your home’s number one defense against rain, snow, ice, wind—and in Northeast Ohio, that’s no joke. Installing your roof first:

• Shields attic, walls, windows, and siding from inclement weather
• Helps prevent damage to all installed windows and siding later

🔧 Roof Flashing Interactions

Roofing includes installing flashing around vents, dormers, wall junctions, and chimneys—elements that directly affect window and siding installations. Proper flashing ensures integrated waterproofing.

❄️ Seasonal Considerations

Roofing in winter risks ice dams and difficult installation, but can still proceed if weather allows. Once the roof is done, you create a weather-tight shell for the rest of the work.

When Roof Goes First

• You’re dealing with active leaks, missing shingles, or roof age over 20 years
• You’re working with storm damage and insurance claims
• Ice-dam risk is high in cold months
• Your window and siding are in acceptable shape, and weather protection is priority

2. Siding: Why It Often Comes Second

Once the roof is protected, siding replacement is usually the next logical step.

🎨 Aesthetic & Energy Benefits

Replacing siding enhances insulation, stops infiltration, and dramatically improves curb appeal.

🧩 Integration with Windows

Siding must be properly flashed around window openings. It also serves as a moisture barrier, sometimes made optional by upgraded windows with built-in flashing—but most reputable siding jobs rely on flexible housewrap and precise capping.

📏 Measuring & Trim Work

Installing siding afterReplacing the roof ensures accurate measurements for siding, soffit, fascia trim—all dysfunctional details corrected after the new roof.

When Siding Goes Second

• The roof is now secure and weather-tight
• You’re ready to reposition windows or add insulation at sheathing level
• Restoring curb appeal is a priority
• You want flashing installed correctly and clean siding trim lines

3. Windows: Why They Often Come Last

Finally, window replacement is typically scheduled after roofing and siding.

🔄 Correct Flashing Conditions

Windows need a fully shingled roof above and siding around them to ensure step flashing lines up properly.

🪟 Clean Finishing

Installing windows last gives clean, well-fitted trim and caulking, especially with recessed siding profiles.

🔒 Weather-Proofing

Delivering and installing windows after siding ensures wall sheathing is already weather-sealed, reducing risk of interior leaks.

📅 Strategic Timing

• Ideal window replacement time is after siding is installed
• Late spring to early fall offers best installation conditions
• Aligns with manufacturer technical requirements for humidity and temperature

4. Alternative Sequences & Their Use Cases

While the roof → siding → windows order is standard, there are exceptions:

A. Windows Before Siding

• When you’re installing high-end windows first due to interior renovation
• If siding brand includes window-compatible flashings (like James Hardie Weather Barrier)
• Coordination between window and siding crews ensures proper head flashing

B. Roofing and Windows Together

• For large homes with multiple dormers and complex rooflines
• When roof-mounted skylights or roof-windows are installed
• Work takes priority over siding, but windows are installed before siding is completed

C. Siding and Windows Together

• When using integrated panels (like cedar shake) that encase the window
• When all exterior layers are removed and rebuilt from scratch (tear-off remodels)

These exceptions require expert coordination; without it, you risk water damage, warranty issues, and increased labor.

5. Northeast Ohio Weather & Seasonal Insights

Your local climate—particularly Jefferson, Youngstown, Ashtabula—matters hugely:

• Roofing: Best April–November; freezing may slow installation but possible with proper techniques
• Vinyl Siding: Needs 40°F+; full dry window and siding integration
• Windows: Must avoid freezing temps during install and caulk curing
• Rain & Snow Considerations: Plan roofing ahead of substantial precipitation, followed immediately by siding for sealed protection

Client Tip: Building can escalate quickly if roof is delayed ahead of a rainstorm. Plan wisely.

6. Real-World Case Studies from Northeast Ohio

Case Study A: Jefferson Colonial Exterior Refresh

• Roof swapped in early spring
• Premium vinyl siding and new insulated windows installed in late spring
• Result: 30% lower energy bills, modern curb appeal, and one-stop warranties

Case Study B: Youngstown Upstairs Remodel

• Siding partially replaced to expose framing for new skylights and dormer
• Roofing and window replacements scheduled together—head flashing perfectly integrated
• Outcome: Zero temp fluctuations and leak-free finish

Case Study C: GenevA Ranch with Storm Damage

• Storm damaged windows and roof; siding intact
• Roof replaced first via insurance claim
• New windows installed and clad afterward
• Owner chose to delay siding until following spring to maintain waterproof protection

7. Cost Breakdown by Sequence

Average Costs – Northeast Ohio (2025)

Service	Low-End	Mid-Range	High-End
Roof (2,000 sq ft)	$7,000	$12,000	$20,000+
Siding (vinyl)	$10,000	$15,000	$25,000+
Windows (15 units)	$6,000	$10,500	$18,000+

Total Project Cost

Standard sequence: $27,000–$45,000
Window-first complex: Potential reinstallation cost from flashing errors adds $1,500–$3,000
Bundled contract: May reduce combined cost 5–15% with labor efficiencies

Financing tip: Bundling all three projects can qualify for energy-efficiency rebates and 0% contractor financing plans—available through companies like S&K Construction.

8. Financing, Rebates, & Insurance

1. Rebates & Tax Credits

• Energy Star window rebate: up to $200–$600
• State incentives for high-efficiency remodeling

2. Contractor Financing

• 0% interest for 6–18 months on bundled projects
• Low monthly payment plans ($199–$349/mo) with credit approval

3. Insurance Coverage

• For storm damage, replace roof and windows under claim
• Siding may not be covered—bundle afterwards to minimize labor cost

9. Choosing the Right Contractor

Coordinate all three parts with one trusted team to avoid miscommunication and extra costs.

✅ Ask for proof of:

• Ohio license & insurance
• Manufacturer certifications (Owens Corning, James Hardie, Marvin Windows)
• Project portfolio showing full exterior remodels
• References from Northeast Ohio clients

✅ Confirm they:

• Provide bundled quotes with clear line items per scope
• Handle all permitting
• Manage sequencing and installation schedules
• Provide single warranties and warranty coordination

S&K Construction and Remodeling LLC is a prime example—fully certified in roofing (Owens Corning Preferred), siding (James Hardie installer), and window installation—making them a one-stop seamless solution.

10. Permits and Inspections

Permitting for roofing, siding, and windows varies by municipality:

• Roof: Usually requires a $150–$350 permit
• Siding: $200–$500, may include energy rating documentation
• Windows: $100–$300, depending on energy performance reporting

Choose a contractor that handles all permits—it keeps costs down and avoids job interruptions.

11. Step-by-Step Exterior Remodel Timeline

Week 0 – Design & quote phase (2–4 quotes, version comparisons)
Week 1 – Sign contract, secure materials, pull permits
Week 2–3 – Roof replacement (tear-off, underlayment, flashing, shingles)
Week 4–5 – Siding removal, house wrap, siding install, soffit/fascia/gutter fit
Week 6 – Window installation, interior trim, exterior caulking
Week 7 – Final inspection, warranty docs, cleanup, walkthrough

This 7‑week timeframe minimizes exposure and maximizes quality coordination.

12. FAQ – Your Top Questions Answered

Q: What if my roof is fine but siding and windows are worn?
A: You can start with siding and windows—provided roofing is under 10 years old and flashings are intact.

Q: Will installers tarp over unfinished siding areas?
A: Reputable crews use tarps and plywood to shield against rain during transitions.

Q: Can I install siding before the roof?
A: Only if the roof is new or sound, and you understand the flashing integration risk.

Q: Do bundled warranties save money?
A: Yes—bundle pricing can include labor coverage across all systems for 5–10 years.

Q: Should I segment all into separate contracts?
A: It’s possible, but disjointed crews may miss overlaps—bundling ensures accountability.

13. Final Thoughts: Your Winning Strategy

For nearly all major exterior remodels, the optimal formula is:

1. Roof first – to protect your investment and entire home
2. Siding second – for insulation, aesthetics, and structural envelope
3. Windows last – for clean finishing and seal integrity

This sequence ensures:

• Maximum weather protection
• Accurate flashing and trim work
• Single cleanup phase
• One cohesive team for warranty and support

If you want all three done right—on time, on budget, and with minimal hassle—consider working with a fully trained, certified contractor like S&K Construction and Remodeling LLC in Jefferson, Youngstown, Ashtabula, and across Northeast Ohio.

👉 Ready to Get Started?

📍 Serving: Jefferson • Youngstown • Ashtabula • Mentor • Painesville • Geneva • Conneaut • and beyond
🏗️ Fully licensed, insured, and manufacturer‑certified
⭐ Hundreds of 5-star reviews
💰 Financing with 0% options, energy rebates, insurance coordination

Call S&K Construction today or click to schedule your free in-home consultation. We’ll help you choose the right sequence of exterior projects and bring your remodel to life—from the shingle up to the final window caulk.

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