When looking for the right siding contractor it can be a difficult choice. There's no lack of siding companies, but are they right for you? We've got some tips and things to watch out for to help you make your decision with confidence.
Insurance
Any contractor you allow to work on your property should be fully insured. No question. That includes full liability insurance and WCB (Workers' Compensation Board) compliancy. Your siding contractor should be providing you with proof without you having to ask for it. You'll find both our current proof of insurance and a letter from the WCB in your welcome package provided by your Estimator.
Years in business, no "one truck" companies
Check when they first went into business and how many years of experience they have in construction. If you can't find it on their website, ask them! There's no need to exclude a business just because they are new or are smaller scale. Use the other criteria given here as well. For example, if a new/small company is asking you to pay upfront before any work is taking place, has no insurance, no reviews or referrals, and/or there's no written contract in place... this may be cause for some concern.
A written contract
A written contract means receiving their offer in writing. Either by email or on paper. They should have a general outline of what you can expect from the siding company and what your potential cost will be. Trust and good communication leads to stress-free projects. Unexpected expenses and problems may arise but you should always be confident that you're in good hands. Always read your contract and ask any questions you may have before signing.
Warranties on labor and materials
Going to specialized training courses provided by suppliers and establishing working relationships with them increases and secures the warranties we provide. By proving our skills as installation specialists we are able to provide some of the best siding installers in HRM. We are pleased to offer a 15 year labor warranty on roofs when IKO products are used. Up to 7 years labor on eaves and siding, and a 1 year labor warranty on repairs.
Locally owned and operated
We mentioned new and small operations. Now let's talk the "big guys" from out-of-province that have no physical presence here in Nova Scotia. They offer under cut bids on jobs and take on other companies to fill the work orders. There's a lack of oversight and no one personally following up on your project. You email and call only to get the run around. Don't let the big guys fool you into thinking you'll have a full crew flown in from a big city for your siding replacement. Trust and support the local businesses that have operated here for years.
Reviews and referrals
Reviews and referrals have always been an important part of how any business operates. In construction, this couldn't be more true. We depend on reviews and referrals to convey what we can't. How happy our customers are! That's also why reputation and word-of-mouth is equally as valuable to a siding contractor in Nova Scotia. Speaking with your friends and family and getting their point of view is a huge determining factor to many Nova Scotian homeowners. Reading reviews will help you find the right company. If they aren't even listed on Google, Facebook, BBB, Yelp, etc. and your family and friends have never heard of them - they likely don't have anything good to report back from their customers. You can check our Google reviews by clicking here.
Projected costs and payment options
You should be made aware of any potential costs before work begins and advised along the way if anything comes up. Although a deposit is a reasonable ask, asking for more than 25% is generally thought of as too much to ask before work has begun. When it comes to payment. You should have more options than "all at once and in cash" type of offers. Discussing payment plans and payment methods should take place before a contract is agreed to.
Brands and products you know and trust
Selecting the right products to make your home look it's best is a personal point of pride for Classic. We offer several different suppliers with a wide range of products to find the right design application for your budget. Mitten, Gentek and Royal are our best and most commonly used suppliers. Having used their products over our 30+ years in business we know they work and hold up well in our climate. With vertical siding, horizontal siding, stone veneer, faux shingle and shakes, aluminum, wood grain and so much more available. We truly feel these suppliers have products we can stand by.
You want a company you know you can trust and is still going to be there for you as the years pass. A company with a good reputation and has the reviews to back it up. Don't go with the lowest price, unless they can also back up their work. Well done siding installs should make you feel proud of the stunning curb appeal of your home. Look for a company that not only meets your expectations but exceeds them.
Classic Roofing & Siding Ltd. provides Roofing, Fascia, Soffit, Siding, Windows, Cladding, Doors, Trim, Decks, Home Exterior Renovations, in Halifax, Bedford, Dartmouth and the surrounding communities of Nova Scotia.
Phone: 1-902-465-5360
Email: classicsiding@eastlink.ca