It’s that time of the year, a nice renovation is lurking just around the corner, and you’ve been on your toes figuring out how to fit all the adjustments with the budget you have. One investment that may be causing you distress is siding. When it comes to home siding installation, it comes at a price, but fear not, because a reliable siding contractor is crucial to ensuring that the job is done correctly and your home is protected for years to come. This is easier said than done, so we decided to give you a little step-by-step guide on the matter. Read on!
Step 1: Check for Licenses and Insurance
Before hiring a siding contractor, ensure they are licensed and insured. Check with your state’s licensing board to confirm the contractor’s license status. You can also request proof of insurance from the contractor. The insurance should cover both liability and worker’s compensation. You can see how hiring a contractor without proper licenses and insurance can put you at risk in case of accidents or damages during the project.
Step 2: Do Your Research
You’ve probably heard this one before, and for good reason. Start by looking for local siding contractors in your area. You can find them through online searches, directories, or recommendations from friends and family. Once you have a list of potential contractors, research each one by checking their website, reading reviews, and checking their credentials. You can always check and look for a siding contractor in Bellevue if you happen to live there, which makes the whole matter a bit easier, or you can ask around and make sure they have reliable credentials. Also, make sure to look for contractors with experience, good reviews, and a portfolio of work that matches your needs.
Step 3: Ask for References
Ask the contractor for references from previous clients. A reliable contractor will be happy to provide references and showcase their previous work, and why shouldn’t they, as their work speaks for itself? Feel free to ask about the quality of work, timeliness, communication, and overall satisfaction with the job.
Step 4: Get Multiple Quotes
Contact multiple siding contractors to compare quotes. Be sure to provide each contractor with the exact project specifications and materials to ensure that the quotes are accurate and comparable. While we’re on the topic, avoid contractors with significantly lower bids as they may use inferior materials or take shortcuts to reduce costs. Yes, there is a reason why they are cheaper than the competition! So if you want to risk it all, go ahead, but we recommend not to.
Step 5: Communication and Contracts
Communication is key when working with a siding contractor. When we say communication, we generally mean someone who is more than capable of listening to your concerns and has the ability to adapt to your wishes and requests. Also, someone who is more than open to telling their part of the story and what they feel would be the best solution in the particular situation due to their experience and knowledge. Before signing any contract, ensure that it includes all project specifications, timelines, costs, and warranties. Review the contract thoroughly before signing it and ensure that you understand all the terms and conditions.
Step 6: Payment Terms
Agree on payment terms before the project begins. A reliable contractor will typically require a deposit before starting the project and will have a payment schedule outlined in the contract. Avoid contractors who demand a full payment upfront or have vague payment terms.
Yep, it seems like a lot of work, but believe us when we say that following these steps will give you the best possible experience with your contractor, and you’ll avoid a lot of stress and unnecessary complications down the road.