Home improvements, such as roofing or siding replacement, can involve significant costs. These exterior components are vital to your humble abode’s weather protection, safety and comfort. To ensure your investment lasts long, carefully choose the contractor you will hire for your project. Experts strongly encourage working with local professionals and researching before signing anything.
Avoid unreliable companies by looking out for these eight red flags.
1. Lack of License or Insurance
Reputable roofing and siding contractors will not think twice before showing you proof of their license and insurance. Many homeowners find it tempting to hire unlicensed contractors because they offer lower prices. However, hiring a company without proper documentation can have severe consequences.
If you choose an unlicensed installer, you could be responsible for the things that could go wrong during construction. For example, if a worker gets injured, you could end up paying for hospital expenses if your contractor doesn’t carry a license and insurance. Meanwhile, if other parts of your home develop damage while installing your siding, you’ll have to cover repair costs yourself.
2. High-Pressure Sales Tactics
Keep in mind that a reliable siding or roofing contractor will not ask you to make a decision on the spot. They will give you enough time to consider your options. Some companies might use high-pressure sales tactics to get you to sign a contract immediately. They might also claim they have a limited limited-time offer on their siding replacement services.
Regardless of the home improvement project you’re planning, you must always run background checks before hiring a contractor. Aside from verifying licenses and insurance, check your prospective installer’s portfolio. Read customer feedback online and ask for references.
3. Unrealistically Low Quotes
While everyone loves a good deal, extremely low contractor quotes are a red flag. When someone offers you a price that’s too good to be true, it likely is. Unrealistically low pricing could indicate that the contractor plans to cut corners or use subpar materials. It’s also possible that they have inexperienced or undertrained workers.
You can get an idea about the cost of replacing your siding by obtaining multiple quotes from at least three companies. Estimates could vary by contractor, but they should not have substantial differences. If a contractor offers a significantly lower bid than others, take it as a warning sign.
Moreover, price isn’t the only thing you should consider when comparing siding or roofing contractor quotes. Factor each of your candidate’s experience and expertise. You want to hire a siding company that specializes in your preferred material and works with reputable manufacturers.
4. Poor Communication
Clear and consistent communication is vital to successful siding replacement projects. If your prospective contractor isn’t answering your queries, returning your calls, or providing updates, it’s best to move forward with your next candidate. Choosing a responsive and transparent contractor will save you from stress and frustration, especially when the work begins. It will also give you peace of mind that if issues occur during or after your project, you can easily reach your installer.
5. Negative Reviews or No Online Presence
Today, many roofers and siding installers have websites and social media accounts. An online presence does more than create brand awareness and reach more customers. It also makes it easier for people to ask questions and provide feedback.
You can get more information about your prospective contractor by checking their online platforms. On the internet, you can also usually find reviews from previous clients. Their feedback will give you a better picture of what it’s like to work with your potential siding installer. Beware of contractors with multiple complaints because these could mean they don’t deliver quality products and services.
6. Refusing to Provide References
A contractor who’s confident about their work will not hesitate to provide references. Ask their previous clients if they were satisfied with the outcome of their projects. How did the workers protect other areas of their property? Was the work completed on time? Did they clean up following the construction? Will they hire the contractor again in the future?
If your prospective installer refuses to provide contact information of their past clients, it’s possible that they are hiding something from you. Since siding replacement is a significant investment, you only want to hire a trustworthy company for your project.
7. Asking for a Huge Deposit or Full Payment Upfront
It isn’t uncommon for siding professionals to ask for a down payment before the actual work starts. However, look out for contractors who require you to pay a large deposit or full payment before the construction begins. It could be a sign that they are financially weak or might skimp on your siding replacement.
Expect your contractor to ask for a down payment upon contract signing, usually around 30% of your total project cost. They will use this amount to order materials that could take days or weeks to arrive. Ordering materials ahead of time can help you avoid delays during your project. Your contract should also clearly state your payment schedule.
8. Lack of Labor and Material Warranties
It’s crucial that your contractor offers both labor and material warranties. These will protect you against defective materials and improper installation. For instance, if your siding develops issues due to faulty materials or incorrect installation techniques, your warranty will cover repair or replacement costs.
Moreover, warranties also say a lot about the reliability of your prospective contractor. Companies not offering warranties or guarantees might not stand behind their work. They might also not be certain about the quality of the materials they use and their skills.
The look and longevity of your new siding highly depend on how well it is installed. At Lask Exterior Solutions, LLC, we are dedicated to providing superior craftsmanship and exceptional customer service. Whether you need reliable roofers or siding installers, we’re here to help. Call us at (815) 964-2220 or fill out our online form to request a quote. We work with clients in Rockford, IL, and nearby areas.