I realize this is an old thread, but I wanted to chime in, for others searching this topic -- definitely get price estimates. I was about to go ahead with a ThermaTru door installation and after reading so many comments on Houzz about quality concerns I got an estimate from the preferred Provia installer in my area. The ProVia estimate was nearly 1/2 of the ThermaTru estimate! To say I was pleasantly surprised is a huge understatement!! Obviously the TT estimate was inflated, from a large installation company with probably high overheads, vs the small family business installing ProVia in my area. Lesson learned: don't assume anything, always ask!

You could lime wash it to lighten it up. That's what I plan to do to a dark red brick fireplace. romabio.com

Deanna - for stuff like this there's a specific ebay seller I follow ( https://www.ebay.com/usr/nexthomedesign). They have open box stuff at significant discounts and carry a lot of high quality kitchen faucets. I got my Brizo faucet for around $200 (marked down from over $600) and it was flawless. They have free returns for 30 days and were awesome to deal with if there was an issue. Since we're renovating an older house I've purchased kitchen and bathroom faucets, shower trim, a kitchen sink, several light fixtures and I'm sure other things I can't even remember. I've been super satisfied with their quality and customer service.

Brand name isn't as important as doing it now and doing it right with any high quality caulk. Exterior caulks are generally rated by years, just make CERTAIN it says PAINTABLE on tube. Millman is probably right about it being man made in serious stages of failure. I hear you when you say money prevents replacement. I have thoughts on extending usable life of the old siding but judging by your questions they might be above your paygrade. Contrary to popular belief carpentry is like the Paso Doble , it can't be explained and understood with 25 words on the web.