Should I Hire a General Contractor for my Exterior Renovation?

Whether you should hire a general contractor depends on the size and complexity of your home improvement project. According to the provided guide, different professionals are suited to different project scopes:

1. General Contractor: This is the best choice for large, multi-trade exterior renovations, such as a whole-home exterior overhaul. They provide full project management and coordinate various subcontractors for siding, windows, roofing, and foundation work.
2. Exterior Remodeling Company (Full-Service): These companies are ideal if you want a single point of contact for most exterior trades, as they typically combine siding, windows, doors, gutters, and some foundation work.
3. Siding & Window Specialists: These professionals are best for projects focused solely on installation (such as James Hardie siding or energy-efficient windows) without requiring structural changes.

In Colorado, the guide emphasizes that because of expansive soils, foundation stability is a critical prerequisite for any exterior renovation. If your project involves structural issues, you may also need a foundation repair company to install ICC- and ISO-certified products like helical piers before cosmetic work begins.

Regardless of which professional you choose, ensure they verify that the foundation is sound and follow a rigorous hiring process—including verifying licensing, manufacturer training, and access to a network of structural engineers.