Looking for and hiring a contractor for your home improvement projects may take time just to ensure you’re working the right one to get the job effectively done. Although most customer-written reviews are helpful when it comes to assessing every company’s workmanship, experts suggest you’ll certainly get the best recommendations from manufacturers.
When you’re working with a second-rate siding contractor, you’ll most likely end up with poor results or workmanship because they lack proper training, attention to detail, and access to top-tier products. So, to ensure your project’s success, we’ll share a comprehensive list of benefits when you’re working with a manufacturer-certified builder.
Understanding Manufacturer-Certified Contractors
It is certain that manufacturer certification programs can be a source of confusion. Oftentimes, it stems from using words like “certified,” “approved,” “authorized,” and “qualified” interchangeably. Given that they may mean the same thing to architects and building owners, those terms often mean completely different things to manufacturers.
Why Is It Ideal To Work With Them?
Working with a manufacturer-certified contractor for your James Hardie® or fiber cement siding system offers the following advantages:
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Complete Product Range. It can be noted that manufacturer-certified contractors usually have the privilege of offering their customers a full range of products. This assures you of having adequate options and finding the best products for your home. This is because manufacturers trust certified contractors like to be their brand representatives.
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Knowledge and Expertise. A manufacturer-approved contractor can take you all of your concerns about different top-quality materials. This makes sense as they have undergone intensive training under the guidance of the manufacturers’ experts to learn effective and up-to-date techniques for installing, replacing, and repairing. Moreover, they are well aware of the local climate and building codes and regulations.
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Integrity. Licensed companies are competent. They follow the rules and facilitate permit applications. Should you have misunderstandings with an authorized contractor, you can easily benefit from the state’s dispute resolution program and tap into available funds for your compensation.
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Superior Workmanship. When you are working with a certified siding installation contractor, you can expect nothing but the best customer service, workmanship, and warranties from them. This is because these professionals have gone through rigorous training and guidance from the manufacturers’ top experts. This is an assurance that they exactly know how to install your desired products on your property, without cutting any corners. With that said, many certification programs don’t just stop with initial training.
Certified contractors require continuous education and training to help qualified companies stay ahead of the competition by learning the latest installation methods, best industry practices, and the new product lineups provided by the manufacturer. This also helps the client in so many ways since they can help recommend products and services for your different needs, depending on your budget, location, and local climate.
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Strong Warranties. Understand that your property is a major investment, and that’s why you’ll want to protect it with industry-leading warranties. Most certifications allow contractors to offer some of the strongest warranties for their customers. These warranties usually cover workmanship and materials, which can undoubtedly give you peace of mind.
How to Find The Right Contractor For Your Next Project
To guarantee you’re yet to hire the right contractor for your siding installation, listed here are questions that can help you choose what’s best.
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Will the contractor handle all of the work? Ask the contractor if they plan to subcontract any part of the project. If there is a subcontractor involved, will the contractor take responsibility for work completed by the sub? Who will be responsible for follow-up in the case of any problems?
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Do they offer a warranty on their work? Although labor and installation are usually not covered in a manufacturer’s warranty, keep in mind that warranties protect homeowners against defective and damaged materials.
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Do they provide written contracts? An agreement serves as a protection for you and the contractor. It helps settle any disagreements that may arise in the future. Before you sign on the dotted line, thoroughly check the terms and conditions stated in the contract and do not hesitate to clarify any concerns you may have.
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Does the company obtain the necessary permits before beginning work? A local siding contractor is expected to be knowledgeable about local building codes and regulations in your area. These contractors are also licensed and insured. They will help you obtain the permits necessary to execute your project properly.
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What are the contractor’s certifications and licenses? Reputable siding contractors care enough to become certified and licensed professionals, showing their expert status in installing various materials. Most manufacturers have a list of certified contractors for each geographic area.
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Does the company have insurance? You don’t want to be responsible for any accidents that happen on your property during the installation. Make sure the company is insured and that it is stated in your contract.
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How is their customer service? Even your initial phone call can give clues as to the quality of the company as a whole. Are the employees you’re dealing with courteous and professional? Furthermore, one thing to keep in mind is that truly good contractors are in high demand. They are busy for a reason. So be patient. It may be the case that you’ll have to wait several weeks before your project can begin.
Always verify the quality of service they provide by researching about them. Make it a habit to ask for references and because it’s likely for them to provide their usual clients, you are urged to check reviews on their website. This way, you are able to carefully determine how they work.
Peninsula Siding Company is here to make the gorgeous home of your dreams a reality. No matter what your exterior siding choice, our expert installers will ensure your home is not only beautiful but well-protected from the elements. We will thoroughly and accurately assess your specific needs. Call us today at (650) 529-6978 for a James Hardie siding color guide or an estimate.