Doors and Windows - siding and window capping

Due to scheduling issues, my remodeling contractor asked me if they could replace my siding before replacing my windows. I always heard that windows should be done first.

Just two questions:
1) Is putting the siding on first (before the windows) a bad idea?

2) Do all replacement windows require capping?

Thanks,

1. A competent contractor can do it in either order. Makes no difference as far as the finished product.

2. Depends on exactly what you mean when you say "capping". If you are talking about the exterior trim, MOST replacement windows need some sort of exterior trim used with them to achieve a good seal. In the case of a vinyl window, that can be a trim that is molded on the frame at the factory, or one that is installed on the job site by the installer. Or it might be one that the installer creates himself, using 1X or 2X lumber and aluminum trim coil, or just an exterior wood trim that will get painted. It is just dependent on the particular job and what the customer might request.

I always prefer to do the windows first. When capping the existing exterior wood on your windows to blend in with the replacements and seal them, it's much easier and neater to be able to hide the nails on the sides of your existing mouldings, then side up to that.

If you side first, you will just about always have more nails exposed as the J channel won't allow you to now get to the sides.

It "can" be done either way, but if I were doing both jobs, the windows would definitely go in first on my job. There's plenty of work already availiable in the world, one doesn't need to go around creating more :)