What Were the Top Roofing & Exterior Renovations in 2025—and What’s Coming in 2026?

If you own a home in New England and you’re considering exterior renovations in 2026, now is the time to take note. The patterns and preferences from 2025 reflect homeowners’ growing focus on durability, energy efficiency, low maintenance, and timeless curb appeal. Rising costs for materials and labor, combined with harsh weather, are prompting many to invest wisely.

This article combines market insights and renovation trends with concrete numbers from the 2025 Journal of Light Construction (Cost vs. Value) report — giving you a realistic, region-specific roadmap for planning your 2026 exterior upgrades.

ROOFING

In 2025, New England homeowners faced rising roofing costs (6–10% material increase), driven by inflation, supply chain delays, and steady demand. The region’s harsh climate — heavy snow loads, ice dams, wind-driven rain, and freeze-thaw cycles — pushed many homeowners to act sooner rather than later to avoid escalating repair bills. As failures from aging roofs became more common, homeowners increasingly invested in durable, long-lasting solutions such as metal, slate, architectural shingles, and premium synthetic products designed specifically for cold-weather performance. Basic replacements typically fell within the $9,000–$30,000+ range, depending on size, roof pitch, layers removed, and materials.

Key Roofing Trends in 2025

Higher Roofing Material Costs: Material prices rose 6–10% year-over-year, especially for asphalt shingles and underlayments. Contractors reported that early-season projects (late winter/early spring) were often more affordable than summer or fall work, as manufacturers adjusted pricing.

Extreme Weather Impact: Persistent issues — ice dams, high winds, and moisture-driven rot — made roofing not just a cosmetic upgrade but a structural priority. Many homeowners saw early signs of water intrusion, soffit damage, or attic mold, increasing urgency.

Focus on Durability: Metal roofing, high-impact shingles, and synthetic materials grew in popularity as homeowners looked for long-term solutions that stand up to New England weather for 40–70+ years.

Cost Snapshot (Approximate Ranges)

• Basic Asphalt Roof: $9,000–$30,000+ (typical 1,700–2,000 sq ft house — cost varies with complexity and layers removed)

• Metal Roof: $30,000–$60,000+ for premium materials, steep pitches, or complex roofs

Resale Value

According to the 2025 Cost vs. Value report in New England:

• A full asphalt-shingle roof replacement recoups about 62.6%–67.5% of costs upon resale.

• A metal roof replacement — though more durable — recoups only about 38.9%–50.1% of the cost.

What it means for homeowners: Think of roofing as essential to your home's entire infrastructure and energy/weather protection rather than a resale-value play alone. This roofing guide can help you make the right choice for your home.

WINDOWS

It's no surprise that many homeowners shifted toward energy-efficient, comfort-focused window upgrades in 2025 as heating and cooling costs continued to rise. Cold winters and humid summers made draft reduction, better insulation, and reduced heat loss top priorities. Larger windows, black frames, and expanded glass areas stayed popular aesthetically — but performance mattered more than style alone. Most full-home window replacement projects fell between $15,000–$35,000+, depending on the number of units, material type, and installation complexity.

Key Window Replacement Trends

Energy Efficiency Priority: Requests for Low-E coatings, multi-pane glazing, and gas-filled insulated units increased as homeowners looked to improve comfort and reduce heating bills. ProVia was our most popular brand in 2025.

Bigger Glass, Slimmer Frames: Modern aesthetics favored larger windows and minimalistic frames, though homeowners had to balance style with heat-loss concerns in older homes.

Better Installation = Better Results: Improper flashing and insulation can cause condensation and air leaks; in cold climates like New England, professional installation is essential.

Cost Snapshot

• Standard Vinyl Window Replacement: $600–$1,200 per window

• Wood or Composite Windows: $900–$2,500+ per window

• Whole-Home Replacement Project: Typically $15,000–$35,000+, depending on scope and materials.

  
  

Resale Value (2025 New England Data)

• Vinyl window replacement typically recoups 71.2%–75.5% of job cost.

• Wood window replacement usually recoups 69.7%–70.1%.

What it means for homeowners: Windows offer solid ROI while delivering immediate comfort improvements. In a home with cold winters, upgraded windows can pay off in energy savings and enhanced livability — often more important than full cost recoup at resale.

SIDING

With rising moisture issues, harsh winters, and demand for low-maintenance materials, fiber cement and engineered wood surged in popularity. Mixed-material combinations — like vertical board-and-batten paired with horizontal lap siding, stone accents, and darker trim — were commonly used to modernize older homes while maintaining regional character. Full siding replacement typically runs $15,000–$35,000+, depending on material, home size, and layout complexity.

Key Siding Trends

Moisture & Weather Resistance: Rot, peeling paint, and wind damage made premium siding materials extremely appealing in this region, where freeze-thaw cycles and salt-laden air are common.

Mixed Textures & Vertical Accents: Bold architectural styles featuring mixed siding textures, stone or composite accents, and vertical lines emerged as a hallmark of 2025–2026 exteriors.

Dark and Light Palettes: Homeowners gravitated toward exterior color palettes featuring charcoal, deep blues, white, warm wood tones, and contrasting trim — balancing classic look with modern updates.

Cost Snapshot

• Vinyl Siding: $12,000–$25,000, depending on house size

• Fiber-Cement Siding: $18,000–$35,000,+ depending on complexity

• Engineered Wood / Composite Cladding: Similar to fiber cement; sometimes slightly lower labor costs

Resale Value

• Fiber-cement siding often recoups 113.7%–144.9% of cost at resale — meaning you may get back more than you spent.

• Vinyl siding generally recoups 92.7%–96.5%.

What it means for homeowners: Siding is one of the best-value exterior upgrades for New England homes. Fiber-cement (or other premium claddings) offers strong ROI and long-term durability, making it a smart investment if you plan to stay in your home for many years — or even resell.

ENTRY & EXTERIOR DOORS

In 2025, New England homeowners increasingly replaced outdated entry doors to boost insulation, improve curb appeal, and eliminate drafts. Given the region’s cold winters, drafty doors often contributed to heating inefficiency and discomfort. Modern fiberglass or insulated steel doors remained top picks. Typical cost ranged $1,500–$5,000+, depending on design, sidelights, glass inserts, and hardware.

Key Door Trends

Energy Efficiency: Fiberglass and insulated steel doors offer much better thermal performance than older wood or hollow-core doors, reducing heat loss and improving home comfort during cold snaps.

Bold Colors & Warm Finishes: Deep blues, blacks, dark greens, and rich wood-stain finishes became popular for front doors — adding contrast and curb appeal.

Security & Smart Features: Homeowners often combine new doors with upgraded locks, smart security systems, and impact-resistant glass to improve safety and long-term durability.

Cost Snapshot

• Standard Steel Entry Door: $1,500–$2,500

• Fiberglass Door with Decorative Glass or Sidelights: $3,000–$5,000+

Resale Door Value

• A steel entry door replacement returned 182.9%–216.4% of the cost, one of the highest ROI numbers in the Cost vs. Value Report.

What it means for homeowners: Entry doors deliver standout value! A modest investment can dramatically improve curb appeal, reduce drafts, and pay off more than many larger renovation projects. For New England homes, a door upgrade is high on the list of “smart first projects."

DECKS & OUTDOOR LIVING SPACES

In 2025, outdoor living continued to grow across New England as homeowners looked for ways to expand usable living space without building expensive additions. Composite decking became a clear favorite thanks to its low maintenance and resistance to moisture, mold, and freeze-thaw damage. Many went for multi-level decks, privacy features, or covered spaces to handle changing seasons. Typical deck upgrades ranged from $12,000–$40,000+, depending on size and material quality.

Key Deck Trends

Composite Materials Dominate: Because of New England’s wet, cold winters and humid summers, composite decking (resistant to rot, mold, and warping) overtook traditional wood for longevity and low maintenance.

Outdoor Rooms & All-Season Use: Homeowners added pergolas, privacy screens, built-in seating, lighting, and even small outdoor kitchens — transforming decks from simple platforms into livable outdoor rooms.

Lifestyle & Entertainment Value: Decks are now seen as extensions of indoor living — spaces for entertaining, relaxing, grilling, or enjoying nature — rather than add-ons or luxury extras.

Cost Snapshot

• Wood Deck Addition: $10,000–$20,000+ (basic height, no extras)

• Composite Deck: $18,000–$35,000+ (larger size, higher-end materials, railings, maybe stairs)

Deck Resale Value

• Composite deck addition recoups 88.5%–95.8% of cost.

• Wood deck addition recoups 79.1%–94.9%.

What it means for homeowners: Decks remain a high-value lifestyle upgrade — delivering near-complete recoup of cost while expanding usable living space and appealing to buyers. For homeowners who enjoy outdoor time, entertain, or just want more living flexibility, a deck is a smart investment.

STYLE, COLORS & MATERIAL DIRECTION

Across siding, windows, doors, and decks, 2025–2026 exteriors leaned toward natural materials, earthy tones, and contrast-forward design. Expect to see:

• Warm wood-look finishes, charcoal siding or trim, deep greens or barn-reds.

• Mixed-material exteriors (e.g., vertical siding paired with horizontal boards; stone or fiber-cement plus wood accents).

• Matte or low-gloss finishes that age nicely and hide dirt or weathering.

• Contrasting trim, window frames, or door colors to make design elements “pop." This aesthetic aligns especially well with New England architecture, balancing classic charm with modern appeal.

2026 Exterior Renovation Planning Checklist

• Use 2025 Cost vs. Value data as realistic benchmarks when budgeting: roofing, siding, windows, doors, and deck projects carry widely varying ROI.

• Get multiple detailed quotes — ask for a line-item breakdown (materials vs labor, extras, disposal, permits).

• Prioritize durability and low maintenance: fiber-cement siding, composite decks, insulated windows/doors, and quality roofing pay off long-term, especially in harsh climates.

• Book early: Because of demand and supply chain volatility, lead times may be long — especially for premium materials and skilled installers.

• Think long-term comfort and efficiency: It’s not always about resale; energy savings, lower maintenance, and improved weather protection matter too.

• Match materials and style to region and climate: Darker tones, mixed textures, and resilient materials tend to last and look better through New England’s seasons.

For homeowners in New England, the trends and data from 2025 show a clear path forward: invest in high-quality, durable, weather-resistant exterior upgrades and plan for both long-term livability and a reasonable resale value. While not all improvements pay back 100% of their cost, many — especially siding, doors, and decks — come close or exceed cost recoup at resale.

If you stay in your home for many years, prioritizing lifetime warranties for roofing materials and considering exterior renovations with composite siding, energy-efficient windows, modern decking, and premium doors often makes more sense than chasing short-term ROI. For more information, contact Refined Home Services to get a free consultation and estimate.