Two vital elements are necessary if you desire new siding that will go the distance: durable siding material, and a qualified contractor to install it. New siding is a significant investment and in order to get the most out of it, you’ll want to ask your prospective contractor some questions. Discover ahead of time how experienced and reliable a company is, so you can forge ahead in your siding replacement with confidence.
Questions for Your Siding Contractor
A quick way to learn if a contractor is a good fit for your siding installation is to ask:
1. How long have you been in business?
A contractor who has been in business for a lengthy period of time in your area has a reputation to uphold. Ask where their office is located to ensure they are local, established, and someone you can contact if you have any issues after your installation.
2. Are you licensed and insured?
Verify the contractor is licensed in your state to ensure they are up-to-date on codes. Make sure they have insurance so you are protected in the unlikely event of an accident on your property.
3. Does your estimate include all costs?
Ensure you know what to expect financially by verifying the estimate includes permits, debris removal, your new siding materials, and labor. Understand that sometimes when your current siding is removed, hidden repair needs can come to light and increase the overall cost of your project. Your estimate should include all costs outside any hidden repair needs.
4. What types of warranties come with my new siding?
Because siding is a significant investment, look for substantial manufacturer warranties (like a 30-year, transferable James Hardie® warranty). Additionally, ask what type of workmanship warranty the contractor offers.
5. What kind of updates should I expect throughout my installation?
It’s important to know who the project manager is and what type of communication you can anticipate during your siding replacement. Knowing where to go with any questions can help things flow smoothly.
6. May I see some of your work?
Ask for references from projects the contractor has completed in your area. Take a drive to view the siding replacement jobs they’ve recently finished. You’ll get a good feel for the type of work they do by seeing it firsthand. Take a look at the company’s website, read online reviews, and look at the Better Business Bureau (BBB) and Angi to obtain additional insight.
7. How much experience do you have installing the type of siding material I’m choosing?
Not every contractor installs siding correctly. Hardie siding and trim products are reliable, durable, beautiful, weather resistant, pest resistant, and more. But they will only deliver the top-notch performance they were designed to if they are installed by a well-trained, experienced crew. At Porter Family Exteriors, we are a James Hardie Elite Preferred contractor, so we’ve been through the manufacturer’s training and stick to their strict guidelines when installing their siding.
8. What does your payment schedule look like?
The estimate and contract should outline a payment schedule so you can be prepared ahead of time and know what to expect. Most companies require a portion upfront, and a final payment after the project is completed. If a contractor asks for the total cost upfront, that’s a red flag (and a sign of a potential scam).
9. When will my project be scheduled, and how long will it take to complete?
Planning ahead for your siding installation will help the process go smoothly. Pinpoint when you should expect the project to begin and end, and realize that sometimes weather can cause unexpected delays.
10. What type of siding materials do you install?
Most companies specialize in a particular siding material. No one company can be an expert in everything, so ask about their experience level working with the siding material you desire.
Make Coming Home Special Again with Brand New Siding
Don’t settle for a home exterior that doesn’t “wow” you. Get beautiful replacement siding that makes you proud of your home again. At Porter Family Exteriors, we offer a 10-year workmanship warranty for siding replacement, giving you peace of mind in your investment.
Choose from durable, stylish James Hardie siding or affordable, versatile vinyl siding for your home. Learn more about how our siding services can boost your home’s curb appeal and overall value.
