Quick Answer
Okay, so here's the quick version. Finding a good siding guy ain't rocket science, but you gotta do your homework. Too many yahoos with a pickup truck and a ladder out there. My quick advice? Get at least three written quotes, actually call their past customers, and make sure you see a physical copy of their insurance—both liability and worker's comp. Don't just take their word for it. This isn't about finding the cheapest price; it's about finding the guy who won't make you call ME in a year to fix his mess.
Common Symptoms
Possible Causes
Step-by-Step Diagnosis
Step 1
Assess and document the damage. Go outside, take clear photos of the problem area, measure its size, and identify your siding material (e.g., vinyl, fiber cement, wood).
Step 2
Begin your research by asking for personal referrals from neighbors, friends, or local hardware store pro desks before turning to online sources like the BBB or local community forums.
Step 3
Verify credentials for any potential contractor. Ask for and receive a physical copy of their General Liability and Worker's Compensation insurance certificates, then call the agency to confirm they are active.
Step 4
Inquire about specific experience. Ask the contractor directly about their experience with your particular type of siding and request photos of recently completed, similar jobs.
Step 5
Follow up on references. Ask for at least one reference from a job completed over a year ago to check for long-term quality, and ask detailed questions about timeliness, cleanliness, and budget adherence.
Step 6
Gather and compare at least three detailed, itemized estimates. Scrutinize the scope of work, specified materials (brand, thickness), and warranty terms, not just the final price.
DIY vs Professional Costs
| Repair Type | DIY Cost | Professional Cost | Time Required |
|---|---|---|---|
Cleaning / Minor touch-up paint | $20-50 | $250-500 | 2-4 hours |
Replace a single, cracked vinyl panel (mid-wall) | $30-70 | $300-600 | 1-2 hours |
Fixing a section of loose siding (multiple panels) | $30-70 | $450-900 | 2-3 hours |
Repairing wood or fiber cement siding | $100-300 | $600-2,500+ | 1-2 days |
When to Call a Professional Siding
- The damage is extensive, covering an area larger than a couple of square feet.
- The repair is on a second story or requires working from a tall extension ladder.
- You remove a piece of damaged siding and find the wood sheathing underneath is soft, dark, or shows any sign of rot.
- The damage was caused by a storm and you plan to file an insurance claim.
- Your home has specialized siding like fiber cement (James Hardie), cedar shakes, or engineered wood.
- You want a perfect color match or are concerned about the cosmetic appearance of the final repair.
Prevention Tips
- Perform a visual inspection of your home's exterior at least twice a year to catch small issues before they escalate.
- Regularly clean your gutters and downspouts to prevent water overflow, which is a leading cause of siding and trim rot.
- Keep landscaping, such as shrubs and trees, trimmed at least one foot away from the house to allow for air circulation and prevent moisture buildup.
- Address minor issues like a single loose panel or a nail pop immediately to prevent water intrusion and more significant damage.
- Understand the maintenance requirements outlined in your siding's manufacturer warranty to ensure you don't inadvertently void it.
Frequently Asked Questions
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