Alright, let's talk siding. You're probably thinking about getting your house re-sided, maybe because the old stuff is just worn out, or you're tired of patching up hail damage from our crazy spring storms. Good siding isn't just about curb appeal; it's about protecting your biggest investment. But finding the right contractor? That can feel like a minefield. I've been doing this for years, and I've seen it all. Here's what you need to know to hire smart.
Questions to Ask Every Siding Contractor
Don't just get a price and shake hands. You need to dig a little deeper. Here are the non-negotiables:
- Are you licensed and insured in Utah? This isn't optional. They need a current Utah contractor's license (check the DOPL website) and proper liability and worker's comp insurance. If they can't show you proof, walk away. Period.
- How long have you been in business? Experience matters. Someone who's been around for a while, especially in our local Sandy climate, knows what they're doing.
- Can you provide local references? Ask for at least three recent customers you can call. And actually call them! Ask about the contractor's communication, timeliness, cleanup, and if they'd hire them again.
- What kind of siding do you specialize in? Some guys only do vinyl, others only fiber cement. Make sure they're experts in the material you want for your home.
- Who will be doing the work? Your employees or subcontractors? This is a big one. If they're using subs, ask about their vetting process. You want skilled, reliable people on your property.
- What's your warranty on labor? Materials come with their own warranty, but what about the installation? A good contractor stands by their work for years.
- How do you handle unexpected issues? Sometimes you pull off old siding and find rot or other problems. How will they communicate this, and what's their process for addressing it?
What to Look For in a Siding Quote
A quote isn't just a number. It's a detailed breakdown of the work. If it's just a single line item, that's a red flag right there.
- Detailed Scope of Work: It should clearly state what's included. Removal of old siding? What kind of house wrap? What type and brand of new siding? Trim, soffit, fascia? Painting? Cleanup? Every detail should be there.
- Material Specifications: Don't just accept