by Lindsay Frankel
2/1/2023
When it comes time to replace your siding, you’ll enjoy several benefits — enhanced curb appeal, the opportunity to express your individual style, and strengthened protection for your home and its precious contents. That’s why it’s important to choose an expert siding contractor who has plenty of experience completing exterior remodeling projects in your local community. Proper installation is essential for maintaining the beauty and longevity of your new siding and preventing damage to your home.
8 Tips for Choosing a Siding Contractor
1) Consider Contractors Who Work with Fiber Cement Siding
Before choosing a siding contractor, consider the different types of siding available to you. While vinyl siding may be cheaper in the short run, fiber cement siding is a better long-term value since it offers superior durability and protection against the elements. It’s non-combustible, doesn’t attract pests, and can withstand moisture damage. Plus, homeowners who choose fiber cement siding recoup more of the cost in the resale values of their homes, according to the 2022 Remodeling Cost vs. Value Report.
2) Choose a Local Expert with Years of Experience
Choosing a local siding contractor can help with getting someone that takes pride in their work and wants to establish a good reputation in their community. You should also avoid hiring a general contractor or handyman who doesn’t specialize in siding. Instead, choose an expert with years of siding projects under their belt.
3) Check That The Siding Contractor Is Licensed and Insured
To avoid contractor scams or legal issues, check to make sure the siding contractor you choose is licensed to perform exterior remodeling work in your area. Ask if they’ll obtain the proper local building permits required for a re-siding job.
You should also get proof of general liability insurance, property damage insurance, and workers’ compensation insurance, if required by law in your state. This will protect you from incurring costs if any accidents happen during the project. You should verify with the insurer that the policy is active.
If you choose a contractor recognized as Preferred or Elite Preferred through the James Hardie Contractor Alliance® Program, you can trust that they are both licensed and insured. Requesting a quote from JamesHardie.com will get you quotes from three different contractors that you can evaluate.
4) Evaluate Customer Reviews and Testimonials of the Siding Contractor
Begin by asking your family, friends, neighbors, homeowners association, or real estate agent if they know an all-star siding contractor who can deliver quality workmanship. You can also check online reviews on third-party websites like Google, Facebook, HomeAdvisor, Angi, and Trustpilot.
While one or two negative reviews aren’t necessarily a deal-breaker, you should check to make sure there aren’t recurring problems that are common among reviewers. Good siding contractors may also have testimonials or case studies published on their website that you can review. You may also ask for references from previous customers.
5) Ask About Warranties for Materials and Workmanship
Every brand of siding comes with a different warranty, and you should understand what’s covered with each one before choosing the right product for your home. You should also work with a siding contractor who offers a workmanship warranty. A guarantee from your contractor can provide peace of mind that you won’t run into issues down the road.
6) Make Sure the Contractor Understands Your Vision
Choosing new siding is a little like giving your house a haircut—you can choose to just get a simple trim or go for an entirely new style and color. It allows you to achieve a brand-new look for your home. Whether you’re aiming for a board-and-batten beach house or something more traditional, our inspiration guide will show you what’s possible with Hardie® siding. You may want to share your favorite images with your contractor and confirm they can capture your desired aesthetic.
7) Compare the Projected Cost for the Siding Project
To get the best value from your contractor, you may want to compare quotes from more than one siding contractor. When you request a quote through James Hardie, we’ll connect you with up to three siding installers in your local area who can provide estimates for your exterior remodeling project and you can decide the best value based on workmanship, communication, and professionalism.
8) Read and Sign a Written Contract
Your contract should indicate who is responsible for obtaining the necessary permits for the work, along with other job duties. It should also establish a timeline for completion and detail the payment schedule. You should only agree to work with a contractor who provides a clear and detailed contract, and you should read it thoroughly before signing.
Replace Your Siding with Confidence
Finding the right siding contractor can feel daunting. If you’re not sure where to start, you can request a quote through James Hardie to find siding installers in our Contractor® Alliance Program who are already vetted, licensed, and insured. With the right siding contractor on your side, you can maintain your home’s beauty — and its resilience — for years to come.
Does My Home Need New Siding?
While it’s possible to repair only portions of your siding, if you notice that your siding is requiring more regular maintenance, you might get more value out of replacing your current siding with a more durable product. Some signs that your siding needs to be replaced include:
• Fading color
• Damage from pests or rot
• Bubbling or blistering
• Cracked or warped siding
• Loose or missing siding
Additionally, you may consider replacing your siding if you live in an area that is prone to natural disasters. For example, if there’s a high risk of wildfires in your part of the country, installing non-combustible Hardie® fiber cement siding products could help prevent your home from being destroyed in the event of a fire. A fresh look and design update is another reason you may want to consider replacing your siding.
