Siding and Windows

Ok - so I got three quotes so far to have my roof, siding and windows redone. All quotes were totally different prices and all recommended different approaches and different products leaving us thoroughly confused. The only thing they kind of agree on is roofing.

Does anyone know the best way to find factual information/comparisons on different brands of siding and windows from an independent source? (We have gone to all mfg websites and gathered info on quality..but looking more for independent reviews.) Or anyone in the business care to give their opinions. (Of course all our friends and family have given their opinions but I want facts!)

For those that have done similar work on LI - what contractor did you use and do you recommend them? Also, if you had siding put on over asbestos shingles did you have the shingles removed or did you just go over them and what was your reasoning?

We just replaced our front windows and go similiarly out of whack estimates.

The difference between guy A and guy C was over $1K difference! We ended up going with the 'cheaper' windows (which werent that cheap to begin with). They look just like the more expensive ones and based on the fact sheets, I could not tell a single difference.

So as far as windows go, I would suggest you asking why X is more than Y and really check the fact sheets. In many cases, they told me X was more than Y because it had some feature that both had anyway!

Cira - you following me? lol. No, no decisions yet. I am thinking about going over the roof and siding like I had told you and think that the one guys ideas were just doing too much. I actually have made 2 more appointments with 2 new contractors this week and next - so let's see what they say. We went to a couple of showrooms and learned some more neat stuff on Sunday. Especially about comparing windows and their different ratings.

I think we kind of did decide on the brand on siding we want to use..based on Consumer reports and some of our research and what we saw and got to actually touch in the showrooms - we really like Certainteed - of course it was one of the most expensive ones we saw but we seem to like their shaakes the best as far as design as well.

Hopefully by mid-Sept we can make up our minds!

friends of ours used King Quality too, and was happy with them

Hi Niecey-we are in the business. Maybe I can give you some opinions on window quality are you doing replacements or new construction style(andersen, pella)? As far as siding goes, certainteed is a top brand-but perhaps more important is the type of shelter wrap or 'outsulation' that is used. As we say in the business 'vinyl is final', meaning it basically lasts the life of your home.
As far as roofing goes-you should only re-roof(over what you have) if it's two layers or less with no water damage. You should make sure your roof price is inclusive of proper roof/attic/gable venting as needed & flashing around all chimney's. Remember to compare Apples to Apples-make sure all the prices you compare are from licensed & insured(workers comp & liabilty) established companies. Comparing handymen or friends of a friend to real companies is never fair. You should also go with the company you trust, because they will be inside your home to trim out your windows.
I'd be happy to answer any questions you have if I can

Denise ... just checking in to see how you are doing and to see if you need anything else! I know you guys are doing a lot of research!

Kel is awesome ... thanks for posting!