When considering siding installation in Buffalo County, homeowners are often focused on visual appeal, energy efficiency, and durability. While these factors are crucial, one of the most important—but often overlooked—elements is the credentials of the contractor doing the work. Choosing a licensed, insured, and certified professional is not just a matter of preference—it’s a necessary safeguard for your home and investment.
At Solid Exteriors, based in Arcadia and serving all of western Wisconsin, we’ve built our reputation on integrity, high standards, and community trust. With over a decade of experience in exterior home improvement—including siding, roofing, and concrete—our team ensures every project is completed with the utmost professionalism and precision. When it comes to siding installation in Buffalo County, working with a credentialed contractor like Solid Exteriors can make the difference between long-term protection and costly repairs.
Risks of Hiring Unlicensed Contractors
Hiring an unlicensed or uninsured contractor may seem like a way to cut costs upfront, but it can lead to a cascade of issues down the road. Without proper credentials, you could be exposing yourself to legal and financial liabilities. Here are some of the biggest risks:
1. Lack of Accountability
Unlicensed contractors aren't held to the same regulatory standards as licensed professionals. If something goes wrong—whether it's poor workmanship, unfinished work, or damage to your property—you may have little to no recourse. Worse yet, any warranties offered are often void or non-existent.
2. Liability for Injuries
If a worker gets injured on your property and the contractor is uninsured, you could be held legally and financially responsible for medical bills and damages. This alone is reason enough to insist on hiring an insured professional.
3. Subpar Workmanship
Without a licensing board to answer to, there’s no guarantee of quality. Improper siding installation can result in water infiltration, insulation problems, and decreased energy efficiency—all of which can lead to higher utility bills and expensive repairs.
4. Voided Manufacturer Warranties
Many siding manufacturers require installation by certified professionals to keep their warranties valid. Hiring an unqualified installer may void these warranties, leaving you vulnerable if the materials fail prematurely.
At Solid Exteriors, we’ve seen firsthand the aftermath of jobs performed by unlicensed contractors. Our team has often been called in to fix improperly installed siding, which could have been avoided by hiring a qualified professional in the first place.
What It Means to Be GAF-Certified
When a contractor is GAF-certified, it’s a signal that they’ve met rigorous industry standards for professionalism, quality, and reliability. While GAF is most closely associated with roofing, the certification also reflects the company’s broader commitment to excellence in all aspects of exterior work—including siding installation.
Here’s what a GAF certification says about a contractor:
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Training & Expertise: GAF-certified contractors undergo ongoing education to stay current with the latest techniques and materials.
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High Standards: They are committed to upholding best practices in installation, customer service, and ethical business conduct.
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Verified Licensing & Insurance: GAF requires contractors to carry valid licenses and insurance coverage as a condition of certification.
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Strong Reputation: Only contractors with a proven track record of customer satisfaction are eligible.
Solid Exteriors proudly maintains GAF certification to ensure that every service we provide, from roofing to siding, meets or exceeds industry benchmarks. This level of certification isn't just a badge—it’s a commitment to doing the job right the first time.
Solid Exteriors’ Licensing, Insurance, and Guarantees
At Solid Exteriors, we understand the value of trust and transparency. That’s why we’re fully licensed and insured for all of our services, including siding installation in Buffalo County. These credentials are not just for show—they’re part of our promise to protect our customers from risk and to provide peace of mind throughout every phase of the project.
What We Offer:
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Comprehensive Liability Insurance: This protects both our clients and our crew in the unlikely event of an accident.
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Workman’s Compensation: Every member of our team is covered, ensuring you’re never liable for injuries on your property.
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Proper Licensing: We meet all local and state requirements for residential and commercial exterior contracting.
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Satisfaction Guarantee: We treat every home like it’s our own and don’t consider the job done until you’re completely satisfied.
We also stand behind our craftsmanship with workmanship warranties that complement manufacturer warranties. This layered protection ensures your siding will not only look great but will stand up to Wisconsin’s changing weather conditions year after year.
Mariel Ortez and Robert, the husband-and-wife team behind Solid Exteriors, have cultivated a company culture that blends small-town values with professional-grade results. Robert, a U.S. veteran, brings a sense of discipline and dedication to every project, while Mariel ensures the customer experience is smooth, friendly, and responsive.
Conclusion: Choose Peace of Mind with Certified Siding Experts
Your home is one of the most important investments you’ll ever make. Don’t trust its protection and appearance to just anyone. Whether you’re planning a full exterior makeover or simply upgrading your siding, credentials matter. Hiring a licensed, insured, and GAF-certified contractor ensures that the job will be done right the first time—on schedule, within budget, and to the highest standards.
At Solid Exteriors, we take pride in offering dependable siding installation in Buffalo County and throughout western Wisconsin. Our family-owned business is built on quality craftsmanship, transparency, and a commitment to community values. With over 14 years of experience in concrete and 7 years in roofing, our team has the skills, training, and certifications to deliver results that last.
From fiber-cement to classic wood and durable vinyl siding, we offer a variety of materials tailored to your home’s style and energy efficiency goals. And because we know that home improvements can be a significant investment, we also offer flexible financing options to help you get the quality you deserve without compromise.
