What should you be carefull about when hiring siding contractors?

The definition of siding according to dictionary.com is, “any of several varieties of weatherproof facing for frame buildings, composed of pieces attached separately as shingles, plain or shaped boards, or of various units of sheet metal or various types of composition materials.”

Given that broad definition, a wide variety of siding contractors are availed to install a large array of siding materials. Stucco, stone veneers, fiber cement, wood clapboard, brick and brick veneers, cedar shingles (also called shakes), engineered wood, or composite wood, seamless steel siding, aluminum, and vinyl are the most common types of siding. While a stucco contractor may also offer the very expensive brick and stone veneer sidings, they rarely offer exterior panel type sidings such as vinyl siding. Generally, the material composition of the siding will determine the type of siding contractor required. Clearly selecting a siding contractor involves a measure of thought and planning.

The first step is to choose a style of siding suitable for your home design. Traditional stucco can be applied over wood or cement block structures. With its vast texture versatility, stucco can be fashioned to match most any home design. Plank or panel style sidings are applied over almost any surface, including stucco. The style or theme desired is the deciding factor concerning this type of siding, budget allowing. For example, seamless steel may not be the best choice for a country style home whereas wood clapboard or stone veneer may enhance the country style. Select at least two types of siding to compare costs.

Once the style has been decided upon, next would be to select a siding contractor. Hire licensed and insured contractors that can provide documentation and references if awarded the job. Ask how long the process will take and when work will begin. Always take three estimates for each type of siding selected. The neither lowest nor highest estimate is necessarily the best siding contractor for the job. Estimates should include the type of materials to be installed, the payment terms, and the warranty period. Ask for these facts to be included in the siding estimate.

The final step is to check references; maybe even visit completed homes to determine if the siding contractor is a skilled tradesman. Verify licenses and insurance with the local building department. Now that all the vital information has been gathered, select a siding contractor.