6 Questions to Ask a Siding Contractor

By Scott & Karen Dillman | August 25, 2023

A siding contractor can help you repair or replace the siding on your home. However, according to IBISWorld, there are 128,012 roofing and siding contractor businesses currently operating in the US in 2023. So, how do you choose the right company for you? Keep reading to discover the questions you should ask prior to hiring the right siding contractor for your needs.

1. Are You Licensed to Do Siding Work in This City or State?

It's always important to ask a contractor if they're licensed. But when it comes to siding you should also ensure that that license is good in the county, city, or state that you reside in. Siding laws can vary, as can the permits you need. Ensuring they are licensed in the city or state you need the work is important to ensure they know the laws and building codes for that area.

2. Do You Specialize in Certain Types of Siding?

With so many different types of siding that can be used, you should not expect every contractor to work with every type of material. Some contractors are certified and work primarily with one manufacturer's product or one type of siding. Other companies work with a wide array of materials. Always ask a professional if they specialize in a certain type of material, and what type of training or experience they may have with specific types of siding.

3. What Condition Is My Siding In?

A great siding contractor can inspect your siding and let you know what condition they think the material is in. They can let you know if repairs are needed or if yours is reaching the end of its lifespan and should be replaced. The professional should always be able to point out the type of damage that is present, explain why the damage is present, and detail what your options are as far as potential repairs, warranties, or replacement.

4. What Types of Siding Options Do You Recommend for My Home?

If you're looking to replace the siding on your home, ask the contractor what type of siding they recommend and why. One siding may be better for the weather conditions in your area or one may help enhance the curb appeal of your home. Siding contractors have unique insight into different siding options because they see how different materials last in your region. They see which can withstand temperature extremes in your area. This type of insight is more valuable than reading the pros and cons of material online or in a magazine.

5. Do You Warranty Your Work?

Anytime you're hiring a siding contractor, always ask if they warranty their work. A warranty helps to cover the investment you made in repairs or installation in case mistakes are made or something doesn't go as planned. It's important to note that many siding manufacturers also warranty the siding itself. Do not confuse the manufacturer's warranty with a contractor's warranty. They are two different things and cover different types of issues. One may cover issues in the material itself, while the other can cover the way in which the installation holds up over time.

6. Can I Talk to Some of Your Past Clients?

Finally, always ask if they have references you can talk to. If possible, look at the siding work they have completed on other homes in your area. Then, talk to the owners of the home and ask how reliable the siding contractor was, if they had any issues, if they're satisfied with the work, if the project came in at the budgeted price, and if they would recommend the professional to you. This is a great way to get an honest review of a contractor before hiring them.

Siding is more than an aesthetic thing. It helps to protect the interior of your home as well. This includes the structural wood beams, insulating, plumbing pipes, and electrical wiring which is often found behind your home's siding. If you need your siding repaired or replaced, a siding contractor can help. When you need to find a contractor who can help you with all things siding, you're in luck. Reach out to Dillman Brothers today to discuss your needs and how we can help.

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