Siding plays a vital role in your home’s curb appeal. It also acts as a barrier between your home and the elements. As an important component of your house, you will want to do your best to perform any necessary repairs promptly. As this is generally not a do-it-yourself job, you will want to hire a professional siding repair contractor to complete the project according to local laws and regulations. When shopping around for a qualified Northern Virginia siding repair contractor, be on the lookout for certain qualities and qualifications. To ensure that you choose the right contractor for the job, follow these simple steps.
Choose a Siding Material
One of the first questions you will be asked by a siding repair contractor is the type of siding you want. There are several different materials available, each with vastly different aesthetics, energy efficiencies, durability, and price. Vinyl siding is one of the most popular siding choices due to its strength and range of color options. It is also quite affordable. However, while vinyl siding is water-resistant, it is not waterproof and is also susceptible to damage caused by branches, hail, and similar environmental factors.
Another siding option is fiber cement. Fiber cement is a mixture of sand, wood, and cement which creates a look and feel like natural wood but with more advantages. It is not only versatile in its texture and finish, it is also not prone to decay or rot. Another siding option is brick. Brick can last over a century with minimal maintenance, is fire-resistance and termite-proof, and does not need to be finished or repainted. However, it is one of the most expensive siding options. Other siding options to consider include metal and wood. Metal siding is popular as it does not rot, mold, or fade, and is highly fire-resistant. Wood siding is eco-friendly, can be custom painted or stained, and has a high R-value and energy-efficiency.
Consult with Multiple Siding Contractors
Depending on where you live, you will likely find numerous contractors willing to provide siding repair services. However, not all will provide the quality work that you are looking for at an affordable price. Start by making a list of possible candidates of contractors in your area. It can be beneficial to call and perform a quick phone interview to narrow down your options. Settle on three of the best siding repair contractors by considering important qualities and qualifications.
Look for Important Qualities
A siding repair contractor should possess a range of qualities that help ensure his or her professionalism, experience, and reputation. You must also check to see if the contractor possesses the proper licensure and insurance which protects both yours and the company’s best interests in the event of an injury or accident on the job. If possible, check online for reviews and references, or ask friends or family about their experience working with the contractor. You can also ask the contractor directly for references or visit the company’s social media pages to read reviews from past clients.
In addition to providing quality workmanship, you will want to ensure that the siding repair contractor you choose also uses premium products. Freezing temperatures, snow, ice, hail, and other dangerous elements can be hard on your home. Using quality materials can help extend the lifespan of your siding and keep your home looking its best for a lengthier period of time. Also choose a contractor who stands behind his or her work. This means offering you a guarantee on all services. This guarantee can provide homeowners with peace of mind in the months and years following the project.
Obtain a Written Estimate
The average homeowner will pay between $5,000 and $14,000 to have siding installed on the exterior of their home. As siding is such a major investment, you will want to be sure that you are not overpaying for services. Before signing a contract, ask your siding repair contractor for a written estimate. The estimate should include information such as a project summary and plan, costs of labor and supplies, and the removal cost of old materials. Most contractors will add extra expenses in the estimate to account for the unexpected. If you have any questions or concerns about what is written in the estimate, be sure to express yourself before signing a contract.
Select the Best Contractor
Know that the best siding repair contractor is not the cheapest, nor is he or she the most expensive you can find. Also know that a contractor who your friend or family membered favored may not be right for you. Take the time to choose a candidate who fits your unique list of must-have qualities and qualifications. The contractor you choose should be friendly, honest, and open to communication throughout the repair process. You should feel comfortable asking questions and the contractor should be able to provide detailed answers to put your concerns to rest.
Ask for a Detailed Contract
A good siding repair contractor should have more than a good sales pitch before you become willing to sign a contract. Once you have chosen a contractor, he or she should provide the terms of your agreement in writing. The contract should include details of the work to be completed, as well as a guarantee on that work. A contract should also include the business’s personal information, a complete scope of the project, a written payment schedule, a note regarding necessary permits, and any relating warranty information. It may also include details regarding project cleanup and waste removal. The contract should be signed by both parties before the project begins.
Contact a Reputable Siding Contractor
The key to a successful home siding project is choosing the right contractor for the job. If you have a repair job that needs to be completed, do not hurry through the process. Do your research to determine what exactly you want completed and interview reputable siding contractors. The right contractor will get the job done properly on time and within budget.