No matter where you live, you’re going to have quite a few options in siding and exteriors contractors. Some companies are good, some are great, and a few others can seem less qualified. As a homeowner, you have a right to ask as many questions to siding contractors as you want while going through the hiring process. In fact, there are a few questions that you should definitely ask every single company you meet with:
How Long Have You Been in Business?
It’s a simple, straightforward question that can actually tell you a lot about a company. Those who have been in business for quite some time will have built a good reputation; bad businesses don’t normally stay in business for long.
You can even do some detective work by looking the company up on the Better Business Bureau to see if they are registered and if they have had any major complaints.
Are You a Local Business?
It sounds like a strange question, but it’s essential to ask of any company. This is because there are many roofing and siding contractors (known as storm chasers) who quickly move to places where storms have hit, looking for damaged buildings to work on. While they may do a nice job working on your home, if they don’t, there is generally no way to get in touch with them after they have skipped town.
It’s always a good idea to hire a local contractor who not only works in your area, but who also has an established business there, as well.
Can You Show Me Pictures of Homes You Have Worked On?
Any good contractor will have plenty of nice pictures demonstrating the quality of their work. Ask to see their siding portfolio or project gallery. This will not only show you how good their work is, you may also get some great ideas on what type of siding and color you want on your home!
What Types/Brands of Siding Materials Do You Work With?
Not all siding contractors work with all materials. Some only stick with vinyl siding because it is cheap to purchase and easy/quick to install. If you are looking for a particular type of siding, ask if they normally install it.
Note: if a siding contractor doesn’t normally work with the type of siding you want, it may be best not to hire them even if they want the job. Installing different siding types require different sets of skills, and you want to be sure that the contractor has plenty of experience working with and installing the materials you want on your home.
Is There a Warranty on the Materials/Service?
All siding materials come with a standard manufacturer’s warranty that protects you in the event there is a defect in the materials. You should also ask the contractor if they offer a warranty on the service and workmanship they provide. It’s rare that something goes wrong, but you want to be protected in the event that something happens after they finish the job.
How Much Will This Cost?
That’s the big question, is it not? It’s also a question we are happy to answer (along with all the other questions we have mentioned above). Have a few questions to ask us? Need a quote on your siding project? Get in touch with us today.
