11 Tips for Hiring the Best Siding Contractor

When you see signs it’s time to install new siding, educate yourself on your options. Siding makes up the bulk of your home’s curb appeal and provides protection from the elements. Its looks, makeup, and durability all impact your home for decades. Understand that vinyl siding can last 20-40 years when installed and cared for properly, and popular James Hardie fiber cement siding, installed by American Way Exteriors, lasts up to 50 years.

How to Get the Best Siding Installation Experience Possible

Here are some tips on how to find the top contractor for your siding installation:

1. Research the company

Take time to look online for reviews from your potential contractor’s past customers. Look the company up to learn about their ratings on the BBB, Yelp, Angie’s List, and HomeAdvisor.

2. Talk with others

Check with your friends and family members about who they used to install their siding and find out if they would be willing to make a recommendation. Take a look at any recently completed siding installation in your neighborhood, and inquire about which company was hired for the job.

3. Interview three companies

It’s always advisable to get more than one bid on your siding project. Get free estimates from three different companies to determine the best fit for your needs. Beware of any bids that are extremely low or unusually high.

4. Ask for references

Ask the contractor for three references from recent customers. Check references for important information such as:

• Did they complete the work on the timeline they outlined?
• Were you satisfied with the installation process and final outcome?
• Did they stick to the initial budget they presented in the estimate?
• How would you rate their customer service?

5. Learn about the contractor

Ask basic questions to understand more about the company you desire to hire.

• What siding material do you specialize in installing? Choose the material you desire, and find a contractor who is trained and experienced in that type of siding installation.
• How long have you been installing siding? From start to finish, when it comes to siding installation, you’re sure to appreciate an experienced contractor.
• Where is your office located? Avoid scams by finding out if there is a physical address for the contractor you choose.

6. Find out about warranties

Siding your home exterior is an investment that will pay off for decades. Learn about the warranties offered for your siding installation, and make sure you understand the terms.

7. Ask about insurance and bonding

Ask the contractor for proof of insurance and bonding. If they can’t provide proof of these, don’t hire them. You need to be sure you’re covered in case an accident happens on your property so you aren’t liable.

8. Find out about permits

Many contractors acquire necessary permits to do home repairs. Be sure to cover your bases and make sure the contractor will get necessary permits.

9. Ask about cleanup

When your siding is installed, your contractor should leave your property looking excellent. They should gather any scraps and debris as well as your old siding, and remove it from the area. For your safety, the contractor should use a rolling magnet on your lawn to verify nails and metal are cleaned up thoroughly.

10. Look for a professional sales approach

When you contact a potential siding contractor, take note regarding their approach to the sale. If they are pushy, that’s a red flag…keep looking!

11. Know the payment plan

Reputable siding contractors don’t ask for the full price of materials and installation upfront. Beware of scammers. If a potential contractor wants full price for the job upfront, don’t hire them.

Why It’s Important to Hire a Siding Replacement Contractor Who Specializes in Installing the Siding Material You Choose

Contractors typically specialize in installing a particular siding material type, and it’s best to find the expert in your area who regularly installs your top choice of siding. For example, James Hardie fiber cement siding installation is only done by contractors trained by the James Hardie Company themselves, ensuring you get the best installation possible.

James Hardie Preferred Contractors and Elite Preferred Contractors are trained in the best practices of the James Hardie Company, and they are committed to installing this durable siding with precision. When you hire a James Hardie Preferred Contractor, you can rest at ease, knowing that your fiber cement siding will perform as it was designed to—for decades! And your warranty will be honored by the James Hardie Company because you had one of their Preferred Contractors install your new siding.Want to know more about James Hardie Siding? Check out our James Hardie Siding Guide to answer all of your questions about America's favorite siding product!

Why Homeowners Trust American Way Exteriors for Siding Installation

When homeowners hire an inferior contractor to install their siding, it can cost them in the long run. It’s vital that you choose a reputable, experienced siding contractor in order to get the high performance and long-term results you desire. American Way Exteriors is the only James Hardie Elite Preferred Contractor in the area. Our thorough training by the James Hardie company ensures your siding will be installed properly the first time, and your warranty will be honored. We protect your warranty by going above and beyond the manufacturer’s guidelines. In fact, manufacturers even send us referrals.

While some contractors cut corners, we go the extra mile to caulk all the seams in your new siding. We seal up seams thoroughly so pests don’t make their way into your siding and home. Avoid the hassles of infestation from ants, stink bugs and other pests by having your siding installed by American Home Exteriors.

We’re here to answer any questions you may have before, during, and after your siding replacement. We’ll give you guidelines on best practices for your new siding’s maintenance so you can enjoy your beautiful siding for decades. Contact us for a free estimate.