Every year, Zonda’s Cost vs. Value Report measures the smartest home upgrades, i.e.: which home projects return the most at resale — and this year’s Rochester data makes one thing clear: smart exterior upgrades still hold their value.
From steel entry doors to fiber-cement siding, these aren’t cosmetic splurges; they’re long-term improvements that protect your home and help you recoup a surprising share of what you spend when it’s time to sell.
And if you’re planning on one of these home upgrades, you are right in the territory All Craft Exteriors knows best: roofing, siding, windows, and doors!
In the last paragraph, we’ll reveal this year’s MVP! It might surprise you!
Replacing your entry door doesn’t just freshen your curb appeal — it adds measurable value.
In Rochester, a steel door replacement averages $2,397 and returns about $3,917 at resale, or roughly 163 percent of cost recouped.
(If you’re a real numbers nerd- and we admit, we are- you can see how entry doors have performed over time right here)
That’s the definition of practical impact: better security, better efficiency, and a first impression that pays you back.
All Craft installs ProVia’s steel and fiberglass doors — built for Midwest weather, sealed for efficiency, and finished for everyday elegance. One small upgrade, a big statement that sticks around.
A good roof isn’t just overhead — it’s leverage.
Whether it’s architectural shingles from GAF or Tamco, or long-lasting metal roofing from Central States, quality roofing remains one of Rochester’s most reliable returns.
The reason’s simple: a strong, efficient roof reassures buyers and prevents costly damage. All Craft’s Lifetime Labor Warranty and full in-house crews mean every shingle earns its keep.
[Looking specifically at how Asphalt Shingles have performed in this report over the years, you can see that they peaked back in 2015, BUT- this year is seeing the Cost vs Value equation returning to almost that level! Now could be a great time to get a new roof!]
Replacing tired, drafty windows is a comfort upgrade you can feel — and an investment you’ll see.
The report lists vinyl window replacement at roughly an 82.5 % ROI for Rochester homeowners.
Our ProVia and SoftLite lines pair ENERGY STAR performance with clean design. They tighten your home’s thermal envelope, cut noise, and send a clear message to future buyers: this home’s been cared for.
And yes — they keep those winter gremlins outside where they belong.
Your siding is more than a wrapper; it’s your home’s public face.
Vinyl remains a solid budget-friendly refresh with countless color and profile options (Exterior Portfolio®).
Fiber-cement, from James Hardie, delivers the upscale durability that impresses buyers and inspectors alike. Although it comes with a higher price tag up front, Fiber-cement is the choice for long-lasting, low-maintenance durability for years to come.
All Craft installs both — plus LP SmartSide® engineered wood — giving you flexibility without compromise.
[For those of you interested in how this has changed over time, this graph shows just how much fiber-cement siding has caught on with homebuyers lately.]
![Siding: Your Home’s Outer Reputation Your siding is more than a wrapper; it’s your home’s public face. Vinyl Siding: ≈ 70 % ROI Fiber-Cement Siding (e.g., James Hardie): ≈ 76 % ROI Vinyl remains a solid budget-friendly refresh with countless color and profile options (Exterior Portfolio®). Fiber-cement, from James Hardie, delivers the upscale durability that impresses buyers and inspectors alike. Although it comes with a higher price tag up front, Fiber-cement is the choice for long-lasting, low-maintenance durability for years to come. All Craft installs both — plus LP SmartSide® engineered wood — giving you flexibility without compromise. [For those of you interested in how this has changed over time, this graph shows just how much fiber-cement siding has caught on with homebuyers lately.]](https://allcraftexteriors.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/vinyl-siding-suburban-home-rochester-1024x1024.webp)
And now, as promised, the exterior remodeling MOST VALUABLE PLAYER IS…
MANUFACTURED STONE VENEER!
No contest here: manufactured stone veneer tops Rochester’s list with a 207.9 % cost recouped.
Translation: for every dollar you invest, you could see roughly two in added resale value.
All Craft installs Versetta Stone®, a panelized stone system that delivers the authentic look of hand-laid masonry without the cost or mess of mortar. It’s durable, maintenance-free, and engineered for Minnesota’s freeze-thaw cycles.
Whether you use it to accent an entry, frame a garage, or refresh your entire façade, Versetta combines curb appeal with long-term value- definately one of those upgradges that turns “eh, nice house” into “WOW!”
[In the last few years, manufactured stone veneer has really taken off in terms of value recouped… here is the graph from Zonda as featured in the Journal of Light Construction]
You’ve seen what the 2025 numbers say — now find out what they could mean for your home.
If you’re considering a roofing, siding, window, or door upgrade this year, start with the facts and a free consultation.
At All Craft Exteriors, we promise: No pressure. No jargon. Just clear answers about what will protect and enhance your biggest investment.
507-424-3323 | AllCraftExteriors.com
All Craft Exteriors — Hometown. Homegrown. Home Improvement that’s Built on Trust.
