Frequently Asked Questions
How long have you been in business?
May I have a list of references from similar projects?
Do you give free estimates? How long do they take? Do I need to be home?
How do your prices compare with your competitors?
Do you offer a guarantee on your workmanship?
Do you have insurance? Do you provide proof of this insurance?
How do James Hardie products compare in price with other types of siding?
Should I replace windows with the siding?
What are benefits of having my roof replaced by the same company who does my siding?
If you replace my siding now can I use a different roofer later?
What is the difference between Hand Painting and Spray painting?
Is Hand Painting more expensive? If so, is it worth the difference?
Why Should I use the manufacturer’s “preferred or certified” contractor?
Q: How long have you been in business?
A: 19 years with the same phone number and Better Business Bureau.
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Q: May I have a list of references from similar projects?
A: As much of the work we perform is similar in scope, we are able to provide (hundreds) of references on similar projects, of various ages, in your vicinity.
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Q: Do you give free estimates? How long do they take? Do I need to be home?
A: Yes, our owner or an experienced member of our management team performs our estimates by scheduled appointment. Depending on scope and complexity, this process typically takes 60-90 minutes. All proposals are specific to the needs of the home and preferences of the homeowner, and benefit greatly from mutual involvement.
Q: Are your estimates accurate?
A: Extremely. Our estimates are intended to reflect the final cost of project and options selected. Clients may choose to add certain services (such as window or door replacement) but the base estimate includes all reasonably foreseeable costs of the work including stated allowances for “behind the scenes” repairs. As our estimates are performed by our owner (or key member of management), you can be comfortable knowing your project has been quoted with the intent to deliver a finished, quality product for the price quoted. We never “low-ball” estimates in order to generate customer interest.
Q: How do your prices compare with your competitors?
A: Hundreds of past clients have decided our pricing is reasonable for the value we provide. Our pricing is very competitive with reputable, experienced competitors with similar track records and credentials. Unfortunately, that is a small group and scope recommendations tend to vary from company to company which can make comparing estimates difficult. We are generally not competitive (in up front price) with inexperienced, unreputable companies or individuals who just want to “make a quick buck”.
Q: Do you offer a guarantee on your workmanship?
A: Yes. Our five-year warranty on newly installed systems supplements any manufacturers’ warranties. Our painting and repair projects carry a two year limited warranty. Our warranty coverage and annual follow-up inspection process are unique benefits available to our renovation clients.
Q: Do you have insurance? Do you provide proof of this insurance?
A: We have a two million-dollar liability insurance policy and full workman’s compensation coverage. Insurance Certificates should always be provided DIRECTLY from the insurance carrier.
Q: How do James Hardie products compare in price with other types of siding?
A: Although prices vary, we have found on average that installed James Hardie products are:
- Slightly more expensive than vinyl and hardboard composites
- Less expensive than brick
- Less expensive than properly applied stucco
- Less expensive or comparable to seamless, steel or aluminum
Q: Should I replace windows with the siding?
A: If you intend to replace your windows within 1-2 years of your siding project it is generally best to combine the activities for maximum economy and best performance.
Q: What are the benefits of having my roof replaced by the same company who does my siding?
A: Aside from the obvious convenience and not so obvious economy of using the same company there are many “common areas” where the roof and siding/trim systems “interact”. A company who is familiar and proficient in both activities can plan a “perfect integration” of such areas which results in a much more effective final product. It is difficult to achieve these objectives (and manage missed expectations) using different contractors.
Q: If you replace my siding now can I use a different roofer later?
A: Yes, but they (and their staff***) need to be familiar with the challenges of cement based siding systems, particularly in “common areas” where the siding intersects the roof. Roofing staff who is unfamiliar with cement based siding systems might damage the system (or not install adequate flashing systems in order to avoid damaging it).
Q: If another roofing company damages the siding you installed (or vice versa) is that covered by your warranties?
A: No. We will inspect our system before (if given notice) and after, but any damages caused by other contractors are not our responsibility.
Q: What is the difference between Hand Painting and Spray painting?
A: Hand Painting involves applying paint by a brush and roller. The paint is being “physically applied” to the substrate which creates an immediate “physical bond” as well as filling voids and edges in porous substrates. Spray Painting refers to applying paint with a paint sprayer which, although faster, does not penetrate or seal porous substrates. In many cases, these unsealed edges and voids are the most vulnerable areas of the siding and trim system.
Q: Is Hand Painting more expensive? If so, is it worth the difference?
A: In the short run it is more expensive because it is much more labor intense. If the substrate is new (or still in good condition) hand painting pays huge dividends in extended maintenance cycles and the preservation of building materials.
Q: Why Should I use the manufacturer’s “preferred or certified” contractor?
A: Many manufacturer’s recognize reputable installers through “certified” or “preferred” status. As many product warranties are contingent on proper installation, using a contractor with solid manufacturer relationships (and training) helps ensure these guidelines are followed. In some cases, clients of “preferred” or “certified” contractors are eligible for enhanced warranty coverage and manufacture support. At minimum, such status indicates that your contractor at least made the effort to acquire “a basic level of education and training” in the products they install. If your contractor uses a product on a frequent basis, they should be accredited by that manufacturer. If they are not that could be a “red flag” as to the contractor’s commitment to that product (or their installation and business practices).
