Siding repair is an excellent home investment. Proper siding insulates your home so you remain comfortable year-round while boosting curb appeal. However, finding the right contractor may be harder than Googling “siding contractors near me” because you want to ensure you select an experienced professional who respects their work. Here’s more information on how to find the best residential siding contractors in your area.
What to Consider When Hiring Siding Contractors
1. Do Your Research
Take your time finding a local siding contractor you can trust. It’s important to ensure the company is licensed and insured for liability coverage, property damage coverage, and workers compensation insurance. These measures guarantee you’re protected if a work-related accident takes place on your property.
Additionally, read customer reviews on websites such as Angie’s List, BBB, Google Reviews, Guild Quality, and HomeAdvisor to gauge customer satisfaction.
2. Flip Through Online Portfolios
Search each company’s service listings and online portfolio to see the type of work they offer. A good contractor can explain the function, benefits, and cost estimate for each type of material so you’re aware of your options. If you have a certain siding option in mind for your home such as vinyl or fiber cement, the vinyl siding contractor or the fiber cement contractor you choose should have ample experience working with your home’s specific design.
For instance, Preferred Home Improvement specializes in James Hardie® Siding, which requires certain standards for certification to perform installations. America’s preferred siding option, James Hardie® fiber cement siding is attractive, durable, and versatile.
3. Ask for Referrals
If you know anyone who has recently replaced their home’s siding, ask them who they hired and if they feel satisfied by that company’s work. Questions to ask can include:
- Would you recommend them?
- How long did the project take?
- What did the job cost? Did they stick to the estimate?
- Were they professional and communicative?
- Did they execute quality, long-lasting work?
- Did they clean up the site post-construction?
- Were there any obstacles? How did they handle them?
4. Request References
Ask contractors for contact information of their previous customers so you can gauge customer satisfaction. Like job interviews, three is a sufficient number of references. Ask similar questions you would pose for referrals.
5. Find Out About Permits & Warranties
While many contractors will apply for the required permits to complete construction projects, it’s the homeowner’s legal responsibility to make sure the contractor obtains them before starting repairs. Consult your contractor beforehand to make certain your bases are covered.
Also, different siding brands may come with different warranties. Ask about the durability of your preferred siding material and what is covered by warranty.
6. Inquire About Cleanup
House siding contractors are responsible for cleaning waste and debris, so inquire about their waste removal process when searching for a reliable company. Reputable contractors will bring their own bins to park on the side of your property to dispose of waste and remove it from the area. They should also meticulously search for any remaining debris with a rolling magnet to ensure the homeowner’s safety.
7. Get Several Estimates
Get at least three written estimates from different local companies before selecting a contractor. Meet with each contractor in person so they can assess your home and your goals. A written estimate should detail itemized products and services associated with the job, including materials, labor costs, and fees for items such as permits. As a part of the sales process, they may offer a free estimate.
Also, you shouldn’t be required to pay the full price of materials and installation. Respected siding companies will ask for a down payment. Additionally, each contractor should be able to answer any questions you have about final bids so you’re not surprised by any additional fees post-construction
8. Obtain a Written Contract
Don’t hire a contractor without a written contract that includes all details, terms, fees, customer guarantees, and exceptions. Details about the job should outline the project timeline, materials used, how challenges will be handled, work permits, and site clean-up. Make sure to read the entire contract, ask questions, and clear up any misunderstandings before signing.
When you need a reliable James Hardie Preferred Company, turn to Preferred Home Improvement in Willow, PA. For over 35 years, this family-owned home improvement company has served high-quality renovation services to the local region. Specialized in roofing, siding, windows, and doors, they provide superior, affordable services to each client. They also provide home additions to complete your remodeling vision such as adding decks or expanding the living space for entertainment purposes. Call (215) 366-5813 or visit their website to view their services.
