Siding Contractors: Six Steps to Siding With the Right Contractor
Six steps to follow when seeking siding contractors to guide you to the best value for your money
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Home siding is widely considered one of the best investments in a home. It’s the first aspect of a house that buyers see and shapes their initial opinion of the home. Statistics show it can lead to a return on investment of as much as 100 percent when selling a home. Unfortunately, it’s a costly endeavour, ranging from $5,000 to as high as $50,000 for the highest quality stone siding.
Siding is a fickle addition to the home. Some materials are susceptible to warping, mold, insects, and other damage and become more vulnerable if its installed incorrectly. Therefore, the least costly installation isn’t always the right move. The highest quality installation for the price is what you should seek. Follow these six steps when hiring siding contractors to be sure you’re paying for a quality installation.
SIX STEPS TO QUALITY SIDING
1. Get Siding Estimates
Experts recommend homeowners seek estimates from a minimum of three siding contractors, but don’t let price be the deciding factor. Instead, shoot for the most value for your dollar. In other words, a project with significant delays from a contractor without a solid reputation is worth far less than a siding project done right.
Use internet services to pair you with local contractors, ask neighbors for recommendations, or just pick a few randomly out of the phone book. Whichever way you choose, get a minimum of three estimates.
2. Check for Permanence
Verify that any siding contractors you’re considering have a permanent address. They should also have a permanent phone number. If you’re not sure the contractor has an established business, you may want to ask for a tax identification number as well.
3. Check for Insurance
This should be among your highest priorities when reviewing siding contractors. If you hire a siding contractor who’s uninsured, any accidents that occur could be the homeowner’s responsibility, transforming a $6,000 roofing project into one that could cost thousands more. Asking contractors whether they’re insured isn’t enough. Ask to see documents that show current general liability and worker’s compensation insurance.
4. Ask for Referrals
Ask siding contractors for phone numbers of former clients. You don’t have to call them all. Just get a handful of phone numbers. Ask about siding contractors’ professionalism, timeliness, and how well the original estimate matched the final price.
5. Check the Schedule
Siding contractors should give you a detailed work schedule, including project start and end dates. These won’t necessarily be set in stone. Inclement weather or other issues could arise, but a schedule gives you a clearly outlined plan.
6. Check the Fine Print
Before you sign on the dotted line, check the contract for any provisions that could lead unexpected costs down the road. The payment schedule should be clearly outlined, including initial deposit and payments to be made later.
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