Replacement siding is a significant investment in your home. When the right siding materials are correctly installed, it protects your home’s exterior and adds beauty and value. But getting the desired results means choosing a siding contractor that will do the job properly, caring for your property as if it were their own. James Hardie siding installation requires extensive training and experience.
Unfortunately, not all siding companies produce the same results, so research is necessary before hiring someone to install your James Hardie siding. Hardie products are one of the best siding solutions available, and a knowledgeable contractor must install them. Because Hardie products are an investment in your home, you want to ensure that you choose a contractor that will give you the best outcome for your home.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Contractor
1. A History of Successful Hardie Siding Projects
Before scheduling an appointment with a siding contractor, ensure they have experience with Hardie siding products. Researching contractors online and reading genuine client reviews is an excellent way to begin your search. As you talk to contractors, learning about recent projects they have completed and their installation processes are two of the most important things to discuss.
2. Knowledge of What Makes a High-Quality Installation
The contractor you choose should detail the elements included in a siding installation. This includes the substrate, flashing, trim, soffit, fascia, and products and tools used for the installation. Knowing what type of nails, caulk, and paint they will use is essential. Ask if a contractor doesn’t discuss their installation process and the products and materials they plan to use. For Hardie siding products, the warranty is void if the installation is not done correctly.
3. Extensive Knowledge of Hardie Products
Any siding contractor that offers Hardie products should have extensive knowledge of the company and its products. A reliable contractor will share this information with you willingly. If getting information from a contractor is difficult, that’s a red flag.
4. Hardie Best Practices
A high-quality siding contractor that carries Hardie products will be able to detail James Hardie best practices and answer any questions you may have about them. James Hardie provides a manual with over 130 pages of detailed instructions for DIYers, proving that it’s not an easy installation process, even for an experienced contractor. A contractor working under Hardie’s best practices should tell you what training they have completed on Hardie installation techniques and requirements.
5. Proof of Proper Insurance and Licensing
Before anyone works on your property, verify that they are licensed and insured. The contractor should provide you with proof of liability coverage, property damage coverage, and worker’s compensation insurance. This protects you in the event of a work-related accident on your property.
6. A Written Estimate
Before selecting a contractor, get several detailed, written estimates. Most experts recommend obtaining at least three estimates from different companies before selecting a contractor for a significant project like a siding replacement. The estimate should include material costs, fees for permits, and labor costs. Reputable contractors will ask for a down payment. Never pay 100% of the project costs upfront. Anyone who asks you to do so is likely a scammer.
7. A Detailed, Written Contract
After you select a contractor, you should receive a written contract that you and the contractor sign. The contract should be specific, indicating start and end dates, the materials to be used, what to do if problems arise, how to handle changes in the scope of the work, who will obtain necessary permits, who takes care of site cleanup, and more.
Contact the St. Louis James Hardie Siding Expert
Banner Construction is proud to be a James Hardie Elite Preferred Contractor. This distinction is awarded to contractors with specialized training and a proven track record of high-quality workmanship. Hiring us to install your fiber cement siding will ensure that it will last for many years to come, and the warranty will be in effect if you ever need to use it.
We’ve been in business since 1993, beautifying homes throughout St. Louis and St. Charles Counties. We provide exterior restoration and replacement services, including James Hardie fiber cement siding, premium window replacements, and low-maintenance PVC decks. Banner Construction is proud of our outstanding reputation for customer service and excellent workmanship. We have received the Guidemaster Award for Excellence several years in a row. This award is for reliable service and on-time and on-budget performance. 94% of our clients say they are likely to recommend us. Contact us online or call 314-356-9861 to schedule a free consultation.