When choosing a James Hardie contractor, simply asking contractors questions about timing and cost such as āWhen can you start? When will the project be completed?Ā How much will it cost me?,ā is not enough for a successful project.Ā Instead homeowners, should focus on the right questions concerning contractor trust and quality.
Here is a short list of questions recommended from the National Association of Remodeling Industry that we field from homeowners and suggest you should ask when choosing a James Hardie contractor.
Questions to Ask A James Hardie Contractor
Start out interviewing a contractor about their experience in a similar project of your own.
How long have you been in business?
How many years a contracting company has been in business will give you a better idea of their past experience.
Who will be assigned as our projectās supervisor?
The project supervisor is the one you will work most closely with during your home project.Ā This will include daily conversations and progress recaps so forming a good relationship is key.
Do you hire subcontractors?
Know who makes up the rest of the project team, whether they are company employees or subcontractors.
Do you have workers compensation and liability insurance?
If the answer is yes, always verify the insurance by confirming it with the agency.
Are you licensed by the state or a trade organization?
Not all states require a license, but check with your local government agencies for your specific area.Ā If licensing is required by law, ask the contractor for a copy of the license and call to verify.
What would your project approach be?
Consult with the contractor about their approach to your specific project.Ā
What has been your past experience with similar projects?
Discuss the contractorās past experience on projects similar to your own.Ā How many similar projects have they completed in the past year?Ā What was the process?Ā Were they successful? Etc.
Request a list of references.
Request a list of references from the contractor, specifically from homeowners that had similar projects.Ā Follow up and personal reach out to the references to get a better idea on their encounter with the contractor, good or bad.
Are you a member of any national trade associations?
Compile a list of local or national trade associations the contractor belongs to.
Have you been certified in remodeling or had any special training or education?
Certificates may include Certified Remodeler (CR), Certified Remodeler Specialist (CRS) or Certified Lead Carpenter (CLC).
What percentage of your business is repeat or referral business?
This will give homeowners a good idea of the contractorās reputation.Ā
What is your experience using James HardieĀ® products?
Experienced James Hardie contractors should have experience using James Hardie siding with ColorPlusĀ® Technology, HardieTrimĀ® Boards, HardieSoffitĀ® and HardieWrapĀ® Weather Barrier.Ā Also, check if they are part of the James Hardie Contractor Allianceā¢ program.
Conclusion
The contractor you choose to do work on your project will be at your home for the length of the construction, so it is important for you and your family to feel comfortable with them.Ā Use the above questions as a guide to begin making the important decision about choosing a James Hardie siding contractor.
EMA Construction has over 20 years of experience with contracting and has built itself on its reputation and customer satisfaction.Ā View our client testimonials or contact us to schedule a free estimate.