So, you're thinking about new siding for your house. Maybe your old stuff is looking tired, or you've got some storm damage from one of our notorious Red River Valley blizzards. Whatever the reason, hiring a siding contractor can feel like a big deal. And it is! You're investing a lot of money into your home, and you want it done right. I've been in this business a long time, and I've seen it all. Here’s my no-nonsense guide to finding a good, honest contractor in Fargo.
Questions to Ask Every Siding Contractor
Don't be shy. This is your home and your money. You need to get answers to these:
- Are you licensed and insured in North Dakota? This is non-negotiable. They should have general liability insurance and workers' compensation. Ask for proof, not just a verbal 'yes.'
- How long have you been in business under this name? A company that's been around for a while, especially in one place like Fargo, usually means they're doing something right.
- Can you provide local references? Ask for three, and actually call them. Ask about the contractor's communication, timeliness, and if they cleaned up properly.
- What kind of warranty do you offer on your work? Not just the material warranty from the manufacturer, but their own labor warranty. A good contractor stands behind their installation.
- Who will be doing the actual work? Your employees or subcontractors? It's not necessarily a deal-breaker if they use subs, but you need to know who's responsible and if they're properly vetted and insured.
- What's your typical project timeline? From start to finish, including material delivery. Delays happen, but they should have a realistic plan.
- How do you handle unforeseen issues? Sometimes you pull off old siding and find rotten sheathing or other surprises. How do they communicate that, and what's their process for addressing it and the cost?
What to Look For in a Quote
You'll get quotes that look completely different. Here’s what a good one should include:
- Detailed breakdown: It shouldn't just say 'siding: $20,000.' It needs to itemize materials (type, brand, color, quantity), labor, tear-off and disposal, trim work, flashing, house wrap, and any other components.
- Scope of work: What exactly are they doing? Are they replacing all trim? Just siding? Are they wrapping your house with a good quality house wrap like Tyvek or something similar, which is crucial for our Fargo winters?
- Payment schedule: A reasonable down payment (often 10-30%) is normal, with progress payments and a final payment upon completion and your satisfaction. Be wary of anyone asking for 50% or more upfront.
- Cleanup plan: How will they manage debris? Will they use a dumpster? How often will they clean the site? You don't want nails all over your lawn.
- Permits: In Fargo, you'll need a permit for most siding jobs. Who is responsible for pulling it? It should be the contractor.
Red Flags to Watch Out For
These are big warning signs. If you see them, walk away.
- High-pressure sales tactics: