What to Look for in a Siding Replacement Contractor: Qualifications and Reviews

When it’s time to replace the siding of your home, you can’t trust just anybody. Anyone who works on your home should be well-qualified and trustworthy. Choosing the right siding contractor can help you make sure that the job is done right and that you don’t overpay.

But if you’re not familiar with contractors, it can be hard to know who to trust. After all, we’ve all heard horror stories about contractors who left homes in disrepair.

The following tips can help you choose the right siding contractor with confidence.

Check the Contractor’s Qualifications

Any contractor you choose should be fully licensed and insured in your state. The insurance protects your family and home in the case of an accident. After all, even the most skilled professionals can mess up sometimes. Professional insurance covers you in the event that someone is hurt or your home incurs more damage. You can ask a contractor for proof of their insurance policy before signing a contract.

Licensure through the state proves that the contractor is a legitimate business and not a scam. It’s important to verify a contractor’s license for yourself. You can do this through your state government. New Jersey residents can visit the New Jersey Division of Consumer Affairs to verify a license.

Read Reviews from Real Customers

Siding replacement in New Jersey is a large purchase. As you would with any big investment, it’s important to read reviews before making a decision. Sometimes reviews can be inaccurate or one-sided. However, reading many reviews of the same company can give you a pretty good picture of what it’s like to work with them.

It’s important to really read the reviews, rather than look at only the aggregate rating. Reviewers will often give you details that can help you decide if this is the right siding contractor for you.

Consider the Contractor’s Experience

Many reputable siding contractors in New Jersey have portfolios of previous projects that you can look through. These project galleries can give you a good sense of the work they do. Ideally, you can see before and after photos, as well as learn about the types of siding used in each project. The photos can help you decide what might look best on your home as well.

You may also look at their overall experience in the community. Consider how long the company has been in business. Do the owners and workers live in your area? Think about the company’s reputation amongst other contractors as well. Some of the best contractors hold certifications from organizations like the National Association of the Remodeling Industry or the National Roofing Contractors Association.

Get Several Quotes Before Committing

Finding a contractor to do siding repair can be a difficult process. It can be tempting to get one quote and choose that contractor. However, doing that could end up costing you thousands of dollars. It’s worth the time it takes to contact several reputable contractors and get quotes from each of them.

When comparing quotes, be careful to compare apples to apples. Consider the bottom line, but go deeper. What does each quote include? What’s left out? Don’t be afraid to ask questions and get clarification.

Check for Warranties

Great siding contractors stand by their work by offering warranties. A warranty means that if something goes wrong within the timeframe, the company will come fix it for no additional cost. For example, if it’s been a few years since you’ve gotten your siding replaced and suddenly a piece falls off, the contractor would come replace it.

If you might sell your home within the next 15 years or so, it’s important to look for transferable warranties. These are attractive to home buyers, who can feel secure knowing that their siding is covered.

Home Makeover LLC invites you to look into all of our credentials, reviews, experience, and more. We’re proud of the work we do. If you’re looking for trustworthy siding contractors in New Jersey, contact us today for a free quote.