Top 9 Questions to Ask Your Potential Siding Contractor

A siding replacement project is a major investment. As with any homeowner, you will want to do it right the first time. To ensure you end up with a quality installation, you need to hire a reputable and experienced contractor. However, not all contractors follow the same code of standards that ensure top workmanship. 

Finding the right contractor for your siding project may be challenging but not impossible. All you need to do is ask the right questions during a consultation. In this post, Shine Construction Inc. provides nine questions to ask a prospective contractor for your siding project. 

1. Where Is Your Office Located?

If they have an office in your area, this is a sign you’re not dealing with a scammer. Many so-called “storm chasers” go door to door after a big storm. They may recommend a new siding material and claim they’ve just set up shop in your town. These storm chasers either don’t finish their work, or it’s of poor quality. If you think you’re dealing with a storm chaser, it’s best to look for another contractor. 

2. Do You Have Referrals I Can See?

A reputable siding contractor can provide you with a list of referrals and testimonials from their completed work. References are extremely valuable for giving you a picture of the company’s professionalism and workmanship. They also provide you an option to investigate the contractor with other homeowners. Try contacting three previous clients to get their feedback. You can also check the company’s official website and read online reviews. 

3. Are You a Licensed Contractor in My State?

It’s important to bring up this question during the initial meeting, especially if your state requires a contractor to be licensed. If you’re unsure about your local and state building codes, look them up online before the meeting. This way, you have plenty of knowledge about siding installation in your state. If the contractor answers yes to this question, don’t forget to ask for certifications. 

4. Do You Have Liability Insurance and Workers’ Compensation?

As with any home improvement project, from window replacement to siding installation, you need a contractor that has both liability and workers’ compensation insurance. Otherwise, you may be liable for any accidents that happen during the installation. For instance, if a worker suffers an injury on your property and your contractor does not carry the right insurance, you may be legally responsible for covering the medical bills as the accident occurred on your property. 

5. What Kind of Warranties or Guarantees Do You Offer?

Even though siding manufacturers generally offer warranties and guarantees on their products, it’s helpful to ask a contractor whether they offer extra coverage. A reputable contractor usually can extend the coverage on your siding, which can be beneficial in the long run. In addition to the products, your contractor should also offer a warranty on their workmanship. Ideally, a workmanship warranty lasts one year and includes any installation mistakes your contractor might make. It’s worth noting that a warranty does not cover damage you cause. Instead, it covers issues such as sealant problems within the time frame. 

6. What Siding Color Choices Are Available?

These days, almost all siding materials have many available color options. If you don’t like the color choices that your siding contractor provides, there are many solutions to this problem. First, ask the contractor if they can paint the material during installation. You can also contact the manufacturer of the siding product and ask them about the price of a customized color. If the color is a big factor, you may want to consider asking another contractor if they have the color you want. 

7. How Big Is Your Crew?

Installing new siding to your home is not a one-person job. For this reason, you need to ask the contractor about his crew size. The ideal siding company should have a crew that could cover all facets of the job from start to finish. 

8. How Long Will the Project Take?

A siding replacement is a significant home improvement project. This means your daily routine will be disrupted during the project. Thus, you need to ask the contractor how long the project may take. It’s challenging for your contractor to be totally accurate. After all, many unforeseen setbacks such as weather events may alter the timeline. Nevertheless, you can still ask for a general plan. 

9. What Does Your Cleanup Process Look Like?

Replacing your siding can get messy. Therefore, it’s a good idea to ask the contractor about cleanup and trash removal. You don’t want to see nails and other debris cluttering your driveway. Remember, a professional contractor will keep your lawn as clean as possible. You should also ask about the dumpster they’ll be using. If they’re going to use a heavy waste container, don’t let them place it on your driveway or lawn as it can damage your property.

Count on Shine Construction Inc. to Get the Job Done

From siding and window replacement to everything in between, the team of experts at Shine Construction Inc. is here to improve your property. Your home is in good hands because we are a licensed and insured company serving residents all over New England. Reach out today and let us get to work customizing an effective solution for your home. Call (508) 278-3300, or fill out our online contact form to request a quote.