Alright, you've decided it's time for new siding on your house. Good call, really. It's a big investment, sure, but it can totally change how your home looks and how well it's protected here in Lawrence. But now comes the tricky part: finding the right contractor. It's not always easy to tell the good ones from the... well, the not-so-good ones. I've been doing this for a long time, over two decades, and believe me, I've seen it all. So, let me give you some straight talk on what you need to look for and what questions to ask before you sign on the dotted line.
What to Ask Potential Siding Contractors
When you've got a few companies lined up, don't be shy about asking direct questions. A good contractor won't mind; in fact, they'll probably appreciate you being thorough. Here's what I'd want to know if I were hiring someone:
- How long have you been in business under this name? This isn't just about years of experience, but stability. A company that's been around for a while, especially through a few tough economic times, shows they're doing something right.
- Can you provide references from recent jobs? And I don't mean just one or two. Ask for three to five, and actually call them. Ask those homeowners about communication, timeliness, cleanup, and if they'd hire them again.
- What kind of warranty do you offer on your workmanship? Materials usually come with their own warranty, but you want to know if the contractor stands behind their installation. A good warranty shows confidence in their work.
- Are you licensed and insured? This is non-negotiable. They need general liability insurance to protect your property and workers' compensation for their crew. Ask for proof, not just a verbal 'yes.' If they don't have it, you could be on the hook if someone gets hurt or something goes wrong.
- Who will be doing the actual work? Your employees or subcontractors? There's nothing inherently wrong with subs, but you need to know who's responsible. If it's subs, ask how they vet them and what their relationship is.
- How do you handle unforeseen issues or change orders? Sometimes you pull off old siding and find rotten sheathing or other surprises. A clear process for these situations prevents delays and budget blowouts.
Deciphering a Siding Quote
Getting a quote isn't just about the bottom line. You need to understand what you're actually paying for. I've seen quotes that are two lines long and others that are ten pages. Here's what a good quote should include:
- Detailed Scope of Work: It should clearly list every item. What type of siding? What brand? What color? Trim details? Soffit and fascia work? Window and door wraps? Any demolition and disposal? Don't assume anything.
- Material Breakdown: While you might not get every nail listed, it should specify the main materials. For instance, if you're getting fiber cement, it should say James Hardie or LP SmartSide, not just