Expert: Dave Johnson - 8/24/2008

Question
QUESTION: I'm currently having my home rebuilt from a tornado, i didn't have fanfold underneath the old siding but asked my contractor if i need it underneath the new vinyl siding which he said no. I see that my insurance put it in the budget to be put on. i asked my contracted again and he told me he couldn't put it on because the windows wouldn't let the vinyl fit with it on. I'm not sure what he means. i live in Virginia and would like to know if I do need it or not

ANSWER: Hi Jack,

2 things:
If he is being paid to install the fanfold, then he should put it on! Or reimburse you for it.

I know that fanfold is less than a quarter inch in thickness, if that precludes him from getting the vinyl on its an unusual window.

In answer to your question as to whether or not you need it, my answer is; if you heat at all in the colder months, any insulation is worth using.

So, my advice is to insist that he use it or if you opt not to, make sure you are reimbursed.
(if I sound a bit irate, it's because I really dislike contractors taking advantage... gives us all a bad name...)
Best of luck,

Dave


---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Thanks for the quick reply, he's already put the siding on but I really wanted it on and it really makes me mad that he told me it wasn't in the budget then when I found out it was, he backtracked and brought up the windows thing. Do you think i have a valid reason to make him take the siding down to put the fanfold on like i wanted it?.

Answer
Hi Jack,
Oops...Now I don't know what to tell you, Not having heard the whole conversation between you two.

But, as I said earlier, if he charged you for the fanfold and didn't apply it, you cetainly have some rights! You could see a contract lawyer or first tell him what you intend to do and see if he wants to comply.Usually a law threat produces some results.


If it wasn't billed and there was no actual agreement, then you're probably on your own.

Again, good luck,
Dave