So, you're thinking about new cement siding? That's a really smart move for homes here in Lehi, especially with our wild temperature swings and the hailstorms that seem to pop up out of nowhere. But before you dive in, let me tell you, I've watched plenty of folks stumble into some pretty common—and honestly, expensive—mistakes when they're planning these kinds of projects or trying to hire someone. Let's make sure that doesn't happen to you.
Mistake #1: Just Chasing the Lowest Bid
This one's probably the biggest. Look, I get it, everyone wants to save a buck. But when it comes to cement siding, the cheapest price almost never means the best job. Cement siding, like James Hardie, is a top-notch product. It's tough, looks fantastic, and adds real value to your home. But here's the thing: it's also heavier and needs special installation techniques. If a bid comes in way lower than everyone else's, there's usually a reason. Maybe they're skimping on materials, or skipping critical steps like proper flashing around windows and doors, or perhaps they're using workers who don't really know what they're doing. You'll end up paying for it later, either with early failures, warranty headaches, or having to get the whole thing redone. Always ask for a detailed breakdown of what's included, not just one big number.
Mistake #2: Not Checking Licenses and Insurance
This isn't just a good idea; it's absolutely essential. Any contractor working on your home in Utah has to be licensed by the state. You can actually look up their license number on the DOPL website. And they absolutely, positively must have general liability insurance and workers' compensation insurance. If they don't have these, and someone gets hurt on your property or your house gets damaged, guess who could be on the hook? You. It's a massive risk to take just to save a few dollars. Don't just take their word for it, either; ask for current certificates of insurance sent directly from their insurance company.
Mistake #3: Glossing Over Contract Details
A handshake is nice, sure, but it won't protect you when you're talking about tens of thousands of dollars. Your contract needs to be crystal clear. I'm talking about specific details like:
- The exact type and brand of siding (for instance, James Hardie Plank, Smooth, CedarMill)
- All the color choices, including trim and soffit colors
- What the work actually covers: Does it include taking off the old siding? What about getting rid of it?
- Specifics on flashing, house wrap, and any necessary repairs to the wall underneath
- The payment schedule (and seriously, never pay the full amount upfront!)
- Start and finish dates (with some wiggle room for weather, naturally)
- Warranty info for both the materials and the labor
- Who's responsible for getting permits (your contractor should handle this, by the way)
If it's not written down, assume it's not happening. At Classic Siding Inc, we make sure everything is clear as day because we want you to know exactly what you're getting.
Mistake #4: Ignoring Proper Prep and What's Underneath
Cement siding is only as good as the wall it's attached to. I've seen homeowners, and even some less-than-honest contractors, try to cut corners by not properly dealing with issues in the existing wall sheathing or framing. If you've got rot, water damage, or an uneven surface, just slapping new siding over it is asking for trouble. You'll trap moisture, speed up decay, and mess with how well your new siding holds up. A good contractor will thoroughly check the existing structure and include any needed repairs in their bid. This might bump up the initial cost, but it's absolutely crucial for your new siding to last and perform as it should.
Mistake #5: Not Checking References or Past Work
It's easy to get swayed by a pretty website, but that doesn't really tell you much about how a contractor actually performs on the job. Ask for references from recent clients and actually give them a call. Ask about how they communicated, if they were on time, how clean they kept the job site, and if they'd hire them again. Even better, ask if you can drive by some of their completed projects. You want to see how their work holds up, especially around tricky spots like window trim, corners, and where the siding meets the foundation. Look for straight lines, tight seams, and consistent finishes. Here in Lehi, with our particular soil conditions and how houses settle, getting those lines perfect really takes skill.
Mistake #6: Not Understanding the Warranty
Cement siding products come with fantastic manufacturer warranties, often lasting 30-50 years. But that warranty is only good if the product is installed correctly, following the manufacturer's exact instructions. If your contractor cuts corners, your warranty could be void. You also need to understand the contractor's labor warranty. What happens if something goes wrong with the installation in a year or two? Get it in writing. A reputable contractor will always stand behind their work.
Look, getting new cement siding is a big investment, but it really pays off big time when it's done right. Take your time, do your homework, and don't be afraid to ask a ton of questions. Your home deserves that, don't you think?