Ready to replace the siding on your home? Have you been researching siding material options to find the right fit? Once you have an idea of where you want to go with your next siding project, or if you don’t even know where to begin, it’s time to choose a siding contractor to complete the job. Siding contractors are a dime a dozen and having so many options can make it difficult to choose a company that you can trust. Need to know what to look for in a siding company? Here are a few things the ideal company should have.
A Local Presence
Does the company you are working with have a location in or near your area, or even in the same state? Do they have a history of working in your area? Beware of “storm chasers” who move about the country looking for homes that need siding repair or replacement. These can be untrustworthy companies that are looking to take advantage of insurance payouts and homeowners in need. Local companies are invested in your community and have a longstanding presence in your area. If you are looking for a siding company, seek out a business that knows your neighborhood and area well.
Licensing and Accreditation
Is the company you are researching licensed to perform exterior work in your state? Are they insured and bonded in the event that something goes wrong during the project? Make sure to research the company you are working with to see if they are a legitimate business. You can always ask for their license number and if they are a part of any associations in your state.
A Portfolio
Does the company you are researching have a portfolio of prior work? Will they let you see some of the projects they have worked on in the past? Looking at a siding company’s previous work is a good way to get an idea of the types of homes they have worked on and the materials they have worked with. If the business is unwilling or unable to show you evidence of any prior work, there’s a good chance they either lack the requisite experience for the job or are trying to hide something from you.
An Open and Honest Quoting Process
Is the company you are working with pushing too hard for insurance to cover your renovation? Are they pushing you into investing in a more expensive siding material? Are they only pushing one type of material and refusing to show you pricing and examples of other siding options? Good siding companies are open and honest with you as to which type of siding is best for your home and your budget. They will also never try to push you into filing a claim with your insurance company unless there is clear evidence that a claim should be made.
Find yourself a company that not only does great work but is also looking out for your best interests. You want to work with a company that will give you a fair and honest quote on what this is going to cost you, without overcharging for what they deem to be “necessary” repairs or service.
