Hiring someone to work on your home can feel confusing. That's even more true when it comes to siding . Many homeowners don't know where to start or what to ask. With the right steps, though, it can feel simple. This checklist is made to help people in Pittsburgh choose the best professional for their siding job.
You don't need to be an expert. You just need to ask the right questions, check the details, and pay attention to how the contractor communicates. Here's how to do it.
Know What You Want Before Calling Anyone
Start by asking yourself what kind of siding work you need. Do you want a few repairs? Or are you thinking of replacing all your siding ?
Think about these points:
What kind of siding do you want: vinyl, wood, or something else?
How big is the area that needs work?
Do you have a budget in mind?
When do you want the job finished?
You don't need to have all the answers right away. But if you have a general idea, it helps the contractor give you better details. It also saves time and avoids confusion.
Ask People You Trust
Good siding companies often grow by word of mouth. Ask your neighbors, friends, or family who live in the Pittsburgh area. See if anyone has had similar work done.
When someone you trust gives a name, ask:
Was the work done on time?
Were the workers respectful?
Did the job site stay clean?
Were there any surprise costs?
These questions help you spot honest and skilled workers. A personal story tells you more than any online ad.
Read Online Reviews Carefully
Once you have a few names, check what other people say about them. Use websites like Google, Yelp, and the Better Business Bureau. These sites show reviews, ratings, and sometimes photos.
As you read reviews, notice:
If people talk about delays or messes
Whether the company replies to bad reviews
If the same problems come up again and again
Photos of finished jobs can also help. They show the kind of work the company does. That way, you’re not just reading—you're seeing real proof.
Make Sure They’re Legal and Covered
You should always hire a company that has a legal license and proper insurance. These protect you if something goes wrong during the job.
Ask the company to show:
A valid license from the state of Pennsylvania
Proof of general liability insurance
Workers’ compensation coverage
If they hesitate to show these things, move on. This step keeps you safe from extra bills or legal trouble.
Collect More Than One Estimate
Don’t pick the first contractor you talk to. Get quotes from at least three different companies. Each one should give you a full breakdown of costs.
Compare:
Labor and materials
How long will the job take
If cleanup is included
If one estimate seems very low, ask why. It might mean they’re using poor materials or skipping steps.
A quote should also include sales tax, haul-away costs, and any extra fees. A clear estimate shows the company is honest and organized.
Read the Contract from Start to Finish
A contract is not just paperwork. It explains what will be done, how long it will take, and how much it will cost.
Check the contract for:
Start and finish dates
Payment rules
Description of materials
Warranty details
Don’t sign anything you don’t fully understand. A real professional won’t rush you. Ask questions, and keep a copy for your records.
Ask How Long They've Been Doing This Work
The more jobs someone has done, the more you can trust their skill. Ask about their past work and what kind of homes they usually work on.
Questions to ask:
How long have you worked in siding?
What kind of homes do you usually handle?
Can I see before-and-after photos?
If they’ve worked on homes like yours before, that’s a good sign. Experience matters.
A skilled team often spots problems early and knows how to avoid mistakes. That saves you time and money.
Ask About Waste and Clean-Up
Siding jobs can leave a lot of waste. There may be old siding, nails, plastic, and more. You don’t want to deal with that on your own.
Make sure you ask:
Who hauls away the old materials?
Will they bring a dumpster?
How will they keep the area clean?
Also, ask how they’ll protect your lawn, driveway, or flower beds. This shows they care about the job and your home.
Learn About Warranties
Most siding materials come with a warranty. But the labor should be covered, too. That's called a workmanship warranty.
Ask for two things:
A manufacturer's warranty for the siding itself
A labor warranty that covers the work
Both should be in writing. Ask how long they last and what's included. For example, does the warranty cover fading or warping? A good company will explain the terms clearly.
Make Sure They Communicate Well
A good contractor is easy to reach and quick to respond. They'll answer your questions and keep you informed during the job.
Good signs:
Quick replies to calls or texts
Clear answers with simple words
No pressure or rushed decisions
If you feel ignored or rushed during your first call, things might not get better later. Trust how they make you feel when you talk to them.
Extra Tips to Make It All Go Smoothly
Once you've chosen someone, here are a few bonus tips to help things stay on track:
Keep a folder with all emails, receipts, and notes.
Take before-and-after photos of the outside of your home.
Let the contractor know right away if something changes.
Being organized keeps stress low. It also helps you get what you paid for without confusion.
Working with siding contractors should not be a gamble. With this checklist, you know what to ask, what to look for, and how to spot red flags.
Related Services Worth Asking About
While you're getting new siding , ask if the company offers other useful services. Some of them can help improve your home's comfort and value.
Ask if they handle
Moisture barriers under siding
Small roof overhang repairs
Gutter replacement or cleaning
Home exterior installation for full upgrades
These extras may be helpful if you're fixing more than one part of your home. It can also save you from needing another team later.
Choose Patience Over Pressure
Some companies may pressure you to sign quickly. But siding work is a big job. You want to feel good about your choice.
Take your time. Review the facts. Trust your gut. A licensed siding company will never make you feel rushed. They'll give you space to think and answer your questions with care. When you work with someone who listens and explains things well, the entire process feels smoother.