Key Takeaways:
- Refreshing or adding new siding to your home is a major investment of time and money. This is why it pays to do your research before hiring a contractor.
- Dynamic Roof Tech offers a list of specific questions to ask potential contractors so you can feel good about your decision.
- We recommend getting several estimates before making a decision.
From refreshing your home’s look to installing completely new siding, hiring the right professional for the job can seem intimidating. How do you know what to ask? How do you find the best person for the job?
Before beginning your search for the best siding contractor, Dynamic Roof Tech provides a hiring guide to help simplify the process.
Siding Contractor Hiring Guide
Home renovations are often a major investment of a homeowner’s time and money. Hiring the best contractor can make all the difference for your peace of mind and job satisfaction.
Here’s what to look for, with specific questions to ask potential contractors before you sign anything.
Qualifications
Anyone can claim to be able to install or replace your home’s siding. A true professional will have proof of their qualifications and experience. This means they understand the process from start to finish, know how to address potential issues that may arise, and can back up their claims with up-to-date records and certifications.
Questions to ask:
- Can I see your license and proof of insurance?
- Have you worked with this type of siding before?
- How long have you worked in this area?
- What type of quality control do you have in place?
Warranties
Good contractors stand by their work, including materials and labor. A warranty is their way of letting you know that they’re willing to fix things that may go wrong after they’re done.
There are two main types of warranties: a manufacturer’s warranty for the materials used and a labor warranty for the work done. A contractor who takes pride in their work should offer both.
Questions to ask:
- Can I see your warranty?
- How long does the warranty last?
- What does the warranty cover?
- How do I contact you if I have an issue within the warranty period?
Reviews
One of the best ways to find a worthwhile siding contractor is by looking at reviews from your neighbors. Beyond stars and ratings, read what people have to say. Are the same complaints brought up by multiple people? If so, how does the contractor handle them? What do the positive reviews have in common?
Questions to ask:
- Can I see some of your previous work?
- Do you have specific client references?
Material Options
Your siding contractor should be familiar with the climate and weather events in your area and be able to recommend appropriate material options. For example, vinyl siding is different than synthetic wood, which is different than cedar shingles. Your contractor should understand how each material stands up to the weather, how long it should last under normal wear and tear, and how to properly install this type of siding.
Questions to ask:
- What types of siding do you offer?
- What type of siding do you recommend for my home’s needs and budget?
- Can I see examples of this type of siding on your previous projects?
- What other options should I consider?
Installation Process
Before you hire a contractor, ask them to walk you through their installation process from start to finish. This helps you understand what to expect and gives you a rough idea of the timeline.
Questions to ask:
- Who will be on-site every day to supervise the project?
- What’s your estimated timeline?
- What’s the process for unexpected problems?
- What happens if the weather is bad?
- How and when will you contact me if there’s a delay?
- Who’s responsible for permits?
- What happens if one of your workers gets hurt on the job?
- What do you need from me before you get started?
- What does your clean-up process include?
Long-Term Siding Care
Once the project is finished, it’s up to you to take care of your new siding. Your contractor should be happy to provide you with specific instructions.
Questions to ask:
- Do you offer cleaning or maintenance services?
- What can I do to maintain my new siding?
- What products or tools should I not use on my new siding?
Whether you interview two contractors or ten, you should feel confident about asking questions so that you can enjoy peace of mind with your choice.
FAQs: Siding Contractors
Q: What should I expect during an estimate from a siding contractor?
A: When a siding contractor shows up for your estimate appointment, expect a conversation. This is your chance to discuss your needs, preferences, and budget. A trustworthy, experienced contractor will be patient and thorough when answering your questions, explain their process to you in plain language you can understand, and give you a realistic timeline and cost estimate for the project.
Red flags include:
- Feeling rushed to sign a contract on the spot
- Treating your questions as unimportant
- Getting a timeline or estimate that seems unrealistic, especially compared to other estimates
- Ignoring your preferences or budget, or pushing you to go way beyond your budget
Q: What happens if there’s a disagreement during the installation process?
A: More often than not, the contractor you hire will do the work as promised, for the agreed-upon cost, and you’ll be satisfied with the work. Unfortunately, on rare occasions, things don’t go as smoothly as planned.
If you’re unhappy during or after the installation process, follow these steps:
- Address the problem with the contractor or foreman as soon as you can.
- Document the issue.
- Check your contract.
- Try to work together to figure out a solution.
A good contractor will strive to make you happy with quality work and positive customer service.
Siding Experts You Can Trust
Don’t trust your home’s renovations to just anyone. At Dynamic Roof Technologies, we offer years of siding experience along with outstanding customer service.
Take a look at some of our siding projects, or contact us for a free on-site, no-obligation quote on our siding installation services.
