Choosing the right siding contractor will impact your home for decades. You will want to find someone who is experienced, has a good reputation, and will be fair with you.
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A siding contractor’s reputation is a major factor in hiring them. Ask friends, neighbors, and other members of your homeowners’ association about their experiences with siding contractors, then check online reviews on third-party websites like Google, Facebook, HomeAdvisor, AngiesList, and Trustpilot. Look for reviews from satisfied customers who are happy with the work done, as well as any recurring problems or complaints that may indicate poor workmanship.
A quality siding installation is more than just a cosmetic improvement to your house; it also protects and insulates it from the elements, boosting curb appeal while increasing your home’s value. Choose a local contractor with a good reputation for customer satisfaction and the ability to deliver on their promises.
Qualifications for a siding contractor usually include a high school diploma or equivalent, and some vocational training in carpentry or general construction. Experience working on exterior home renovation projects is also important, as are certifications from professional organizations that demonstrate expertise in specific areas of the industry.
Siding contractors whose reputations are built on customer-centric service and a willingness to go above and beyond the call of duty will always be in business longer than those who don’t. Look for a contractor that will provide you with a clear breakdown of the cost of materials and labor before beginning the project, and be sure to ask about any additional charges, such as dumpster rental or building permits.
Ask a potential siding contractor about their insurance policies. Ideally, they will have workers’ compensation and liability coverage for your home while they’re doing the job. If not, this should be a red flag; if something goes wrong and they don’t have insurance, you could end up paying for damages.
A local contractor that’s dedicated to the community will have longstanding ties with neighborhood residents and businesses. This means that they’re familiar with the area’s architecture and all of those little quirks that might trip up an outsider. They’ll understand your concerns, explain all aspects of the project in detail, and make you feel comfortable with moving forward.
Experience
The most experienced home siding contractors should be able to provide you with a wide range of options for your exterior cladding. They should be able to explain the pros and cons of each type of material, as well as the installation process. This will help you make a more informed decision about the type of siding that is right for your home.
A good way to gauge a contractor’s experience is by asking for referrals and reviews. Checking out a company’s online reputation will also give you an idea of what to expect. You can find out if customers have been pleased with their work, and if any problems arose during the project.
When choosing a siding contractor, look for one who has been in business for at least five years. This will ensure that they have a solid track record and are familiar with local building codes. It is also important to find out whether they have the proper permits for siding projects.
During the interview, ask the contractor to provide a detailed description of the project and its estimated cost. You should also ask them to provide a sample contract that includes all the details of the project. The contract should be clearly written and include a full breakdown of products and services with their prices. Be wary of any contractors who try to low-ball their estimates and then tack on extras after you sign the contract.
Another important question to ask is how they would handle unforeseen issues that may arise during the project. For instance, if they discover rot behind your walls, it is essential to know how they will handle the situation.
If they are unable to address the issue, you might have to hire another company to do so, which will delay the completion of your siding project. It is best to choose a siding contractor who will stick with the job until it is complete and has met your expectations.
You should also find out how long the crew will be working on your project. Some companies have multiple crews that rotate in and out of projects, which can lead to a less-than-stellar installation. It is best to choose a company that will have one crew for your siding project so you can get to know the members of the team and develop a rapport with them.
Insurance
As you shop for a siding contractor, look for a company that has liability insurance. This type of insurance limits your risk when a client’s property is damaged while you work on their home. It also covers legal fees, settlements or damages awarded against you.
Ask your prospective contractor if they have a current general liability insurance policy and workers’ compensation insurance. These policies pay for medical bills and other expenses for your employees who are injured on the job. The cost of these policies varies depending on the number of employees and industry-specific risks.
A reputable company will also have commercial auto insurance, which pays for damage caused by trucks and other business vehicles owned or leased by your siding installation business. Some states require this type of insurance for businesses with a certain number of employees or vehicles. Look for a company that offers hired and non-owned auto insurance as well, which can cover damage to personal or rental vehicles used for work purposes.
If you choose a contractor that says they have a lifetime warranty, be sure to find out what is covered by that. It should include the actual product, labor and installation, and all parts of the siding including trim and flashing. It should also specify who manages and resolves any warranty issues that may arise.
You should also ask about their licensing and insurance. If a company can’t provide proof of these policies, avoid working with them. They may be scamming you. Reputable contractors will not ask for payment in full upfront.
Choosing a reputable siding contractor can save you money and headaches in the future. Look for one with a good reputation, experience, reliable team and competitive rates. It’s important to compare your options before you sign a contract, especially since the outcome of your project can impact your home for decades. The more research you do, the better decision you’ll make. To start your search, fill out a quick and free online application for a siding contractor insurance quote and explore custom quotes from top-rated insurers in minutes.
Warranty
When looking for a siding contractor, it’s important to ask about their warranty. It’s a sign of a reputable company that stands behind their work. A good warranty should cover both the material and installation. It should also include a money-back guarantee on any defective work that happens during the project.
When choosing a siding contractor, read reviews of their previous jobs. Look for reviews that focus on their timeliness, contract terms, pricing, and communication. Talk to friends and neighbors about the contractors they worked with and what their experiences were like. You should also look at photos of previous projects the contractor has completed. This will give you an idea of their skills and craftsmanship.
The manufacturer’s warranty will offer protection on the product, but you also want to find a home siding contractor that offers a workmanship/installation warranty. This will ensure that any issues caused during the installation process are fixed. A good warranty will provide peace of mind and protect your investment.
It’s essential to read the warranty carefully to make sure you understand what it covers. Some warranties have confusing terms, so it’s best to review them with a trusted siding contractor. They can answer your questions and explain any language you don’t understand.
In addition to the product and installation warranty, it’s also a good idea to find out if the siding contractor provides a labor warranty. This will help protect you in the event of any problems that occur after the project is complete.
A great example of a siding company that stands by their work is James Hardie, which offers a 30-year non-pro-rated warranty on their products. They also offer a transferable warranty to the next owner, which is an excellent feature for homeowners who plan to sell their home.
The siding contractor you choose will play a major role in the appearance and functionality of your home. Taking the time to find a reputable, experienced company will pay off in the long run. Be sure to ask about their reputation, insurance policies, licenses, and warranty. Then, you can feel confident that your home siding project will be a success.