What to Know Before Hiring Roofing and Siding Contractors

Rain finding its way into your attic? Siding starting to crack or fade? When your home’s exterior needs attention, you face decisions that impact both protection and curb appeal. At LKS Constructions, with years of experience we’ve noticed many homeowners feel overwhelmed when trying to choose between roofing and siding contractors. 

The stakes are high – mistakes can lead to leaks, energy loss, and thousands in avoidable damage. This guide breaks down what you really need to know before signing any contracts.

The Real Difference In Materials

Walk through any Massachusetts neighborhood and you’ll spot various roofing materials – from standard asphalt shingles to slate, wood, and metal options. Each comes with tradeoffs. Asphalt shingles dominate the market because they’re reasonably priced and last about 15-30 years. Metal roofing costs more upfront but can outlast asphalt by decades while standing strong against notorious weather patterns.

Siding choices are equally varied. While vinyl remains popular for its low cost, metal board and batten has caught many homeowners’ attention. This distinctive style uses vertical metal panels with raised seams (the battens) that create bold shadow lines and architectural interest. Beyond looks, metal siding withstands moisture, insects, and fire better than traditional options – a real advantage in our region’s variable climate. The metal’s reflective properties can also help with energy efficiency in summer months. Contractors provide durable solutions for homes, ensuring long-lasting protection and aesthetic appeal

Your material choices matter more in Massachusetts than in many other locations. Our freeze-thaw cycles, coastal storms, and temperature swings demand materials that can handle extreme conditions year after year.

How do you choose a reliable roofing and siding contractor?

Choose a roofing and siding contractor with a valid license and insurance, a good reputation, and experience in the type of work you need. Ask for references and ensure they provide written estimates and contracts. Communication and transparency are key factors in selecting a reliable contractor.

Vinyl Siding

Vinyl siding is a popular choice among roofing and siding contractors for its durability, versatility, and low maintenance requirements. This type can withstand harsh weather conditions, such as extreme heat or cold, without warping or fading. Additionally, vinyl siding comes in a wide range of colors and styles to complement any home’s aesthetic. Its easy installation process makes it a cost-effective option for homeowners looking to enhance the curb appeal and value of their property.

Gutters

Gutters play a crucial role in the overall health and longevity of your roofing and siding. Properly functioning gutters help to direct water away from your home, preventing water damage to your roof, siding, and foundation. Regular gutter maintenance is essential to ensure they remain clear of debris and clogs, allowing for proper drainage during rainfall or snowmelt. Investing in quality gutters and keeping them well-maintained can save you money on potential repairs down the line.

Why Installation Quality Makes Or Breaks Your Project

You could purchase top-of-the-line materials, but without proper installation, you’re setting yourself up for problems. Professional roofing and siding contractors don’t just nail materials to your house – they create integrated systems that manage water, air, and temperature.

We’ve seen countless homes where improper flashing around chimneys, windows or roof valleys led to extensive water damage that remained hidden until major repairs were needed. These details aren’t exciting, but they’re absolutely critical to protecting your investment.

The energy implications are substantial too. Proper installation techniques create a tight building envelope that keeps heated or cooled air where it belongs – inside your home. The resulting utility savings add up significantly over time, sometimes offsetting a considerable portion of your project cost.

Hiring Smart: What Actually Matters

The roofing industry includes contractors of wildly varying quality. When researching roofing companies, start with verification basics. Massachusetts law requires registration with the state for home improvement contractors. Ask for proof of insurance that covers both liability and workers’ compensation – this protects you from potential lawsuits if someone gets injured on your property.

Experience speaks volumes in this field. Reputable roofing and siding contractors should readily share photos of completed projects similar to yours. Don’t just admire the pictures – ask for references from homeowners with installations that have weathered at least one full year of Massachusetts seasons.

Pay attention to how contractors communicate. Do they rush through explanations? Dodge specific questions? The best siding roofing contractors take time to explain options, potential complications, and realistic timelines. Their estimates should clearly break down costs for materials, labor, and potential additional work that might become necessary once existing materials are removed.

Timing It Right

Project timing affects results more than most homeowners realize. While you might think summer is perfect for exterior projects, the reality is more nuanced. Spring and fall typically offer milder temperatures that are kinder to both materials and workers. Extreme heat can warp siding and make shingles more vulnerable to damage during installation.

Most quality roofing and siding projects need consecutive days without rain or extreme temperatures. This weather-dependency makes scheduling tricky – another reason to plan well ahead. The best contractors often book months in advance, especially for the optimal weather windows.

Conclusion:

Your home deserves exterior protection that blends performance, appearance, and durability. Finding the right roofing and siding contractors requires looking beyond basic price comparisons to understand what you’re truly getting. LKS Constructions believes informed homeowners make better decisions that lead to lasting satisfaction with their exterior renovations. 

Hiring professional contractors can provide peace of mind knowing that your home is in good hands and will be protected from the elements for years to come. By understanding materials, installation techniques, contractor qualifications, and timing considerations, you set yourself up for success. The difference shows not just in how your home looks today, but in how it performs through years of challenging weather conditions.