So, you’re thinking about getting new siding for your house. Good for you! It’s a big investment, and it can really change the look and protection of your home. But picking the right contractor? That’s where a lot of folks get tripped up. I’ve seen it all in my years working on homes around here, from North Lawrence to the west side. Here's what you need to know to make sure you hire someone good, not a headache.
Questions to Ask Every Siding Contractor
You wouldn’t buy a car without asking questions, right? Same goes for your house. Don't be shy. These are some must-ask questions:
- Are you licensed and insured? This is non-negotiable. They need to be licensed to work in Lawrence and Douglas County, and they absolutely need liability and workers' compensation insurance. Ask for proof. I carry ours with me, and any reputable contractor should too.
- How long have you been in business? Experience matters. Someone who just popped up last week might be cheap, but they might not be around if something goes wrong later.
- Can you provide references? Ask for three recent customers you can call. And actually call them! Ask about communication, cleanup, and if they’d hire them again.
- What kind of warranty do you offer on your work? Not just the material warranty, but their labor warranty. A good contractor stands behind their installation.
- Who will be doing the actual work? Your employees or subcontractors? It's fine if they use subs, but you want to know they’re vetted and supervised.
- How do you handle unexpected issues? Sometimes you pull off old siding and find rot or other damage. How do they communicate that, and what’s their process for addressing it?
What to Look For in a Siding Quote
Getting a quote isn't just about the bottom line. You need to understand what you’re paying for. A good quote should be detailed, not just a single number.
- Material specifics: It should clearly state the type of siding (e.g., James Hardie fiber cement, specific vinyl brand), color, profile, and any accessories like trim, soffit, fascia, and gutters.
- Scope of work: What exactly are they doing? Removing old siding? Hauling it away? Installing new house wrap? What about window and door trim? Don't assume anything.
- Payment schedule: How much up front? When are other payments due? A small deposit is normal, but paying half or more upfront for materials that aren't even delivered yet is a red flag.
- Start and completion dates: A realistic timeline is important. Weather in Kansas can be unpredictable, especially with our wild spring storms, so they should account for that.
- Cleanup plan: How will they protect your landscaping? What’s their plan for daily cleanup and final debris removal?
Red Flags to Watch Out For
Trust your gut. If something feels off, it probably is.
- High-pressure sales tactics: