As a homeowner, it’s important to realize that a siding estimate becomes a contract once you sign it—so knowing exactly what’s included really matters. A good estimate should leave you feeling confident, with every question answered and all the details clearly written out.
Wondering what a professional siding quote should include? You’re in the right place! We’ll walk you through the must-have details and the red flags Philadelphia area homeowners should watch for when comparing estimates. Be sure to get at least 3 quotes so you can choose the one that fits your needs best. Let’s dive in!
Your Siding Estimate: 8 Essential Elements
1. Your Contractor’s Physical Address
This basic element should be on your estimate. If it’s not, you may be dealing with a storm chaser, so proceed with caution.
2. Proof of Licensure
Your estimate should include proof that the contractor is licensed.
3. Your Project’s Scope
- Your home’s size and complexity – The amount of architectural complexity of your house will impact your siding replacement cost. These elements should be included on your estimate.
- Needed repairs – While the siding contractor won’t know about some repairs that may be needed (until they remove your current siding), if there are obvious signs that repairs are necessary—like pest infiltration, moisture intrusion, or other damage—then the estimated cost of repairs should be included in your project’s scope.
- Itemization (pricing transparency) – A detailed breakdown of costs is essential. Ensure each facet of your project is listed separately with clear pricing. Look for an itemized list of labor, materials, and disposal fees. This will help you understand the cost and help you avoid any surprises.
- Contingencies – If there are any potential additional expenses, ensure they are included in the estimate, as well as under what circumstances these might arise.
4. Siding Materials
Whether you’ve selected affordable and versatile vinyl siding, rustic chic board and batten style siding, contemporary vertical siding like Hardie® Panel, or classic horizontal cladding such as Hardie® Plank, your estimate should detail which siding manufacturer you’ve chosen, the material type, and siding style.
5. Warranty Information
It’s important to have the workmanship warranty and manufacturer’s warranty in writing on the estimate. Also, ensure you understand clearly anything that can void your manufacturer’s warranty, warranty length, and the details about what it does and doesn’t cover.
6. Financing and Payment Schedule
The expectations for a payment schedule should be outlined clearly on your estimate. It’s customary to pay a deposit of 50% and the remainder of the project cost upon its completion. If financing is offered by the company, it should be outlined on the estimate.
7. Insurance Coverage
Although it can be done verbally, verifying your contractor’s liability insurance coverage by asking that it is noted on the estimate can give you peace of mind.
8. Siding Options
A professional estimate should outline more than one option, from cost-effective to premium materials, allowing you to custom fit to your desires and needs.
Red Flags to Look for on Your Siding Estimate
No Physical Address
No matter how good the price looks, if a contractor doesn’t have a physical address, keep looking.
Full Payment for Your Project Upfront
If a business requires full payment before a project starts, that’s a red flag. Keep looking until you find a siding expert that has a fair and feasible payment arrangement.
Lack of Detail in the Estimate
A detailed quote in writing is vital to a seamless and successful siding upgrade. From the scope of work, cost, and material and color selections, your estimate should cover all the details that give you confidence before launching the project. So, if you get an estimate without detail, consider it a red flag that this company probably isn’t the best fit for your long-term needs.
Transform Your Home with Beautiful, Durable Siding
Don’t settle for worn-out siding that leaves your home vulnerable to moisture damage and pests. Get gorgeous new siding installed by the experts so you can enjoy its protection and beauty.
Since 1976, Porter Family Exteriors has renovated thousands of homes in the Philadelphia area, and we’re here for you! We install popular James Hardie fiber cement siding and cost-effective vinyl. We also offer stucco remediation if your home needs repairs from water infiltration due to stucco siding. Take a moment to learn more about siding replacement and how you can get a free quote on your siding project.
