Buck Run Builders, of Gap, PA, recently completed a major project at our home : replacing 40-year…read moreold cedar siding. The specifications for the work were demanding: the house is a modern 40-year old energy-efficient architectural design that received awards and was photographed for a national magazine when built.
We solicited proposals from five firms: two were specialist siding installers, two were general contractors and builders, including Buck Run, and one was a customer home builder. The proposals ranged from $37K to $115K. We eliminated the two siding companies and their low bids because the project was likely beyond their abilities to do the detail fine work required; the high bid was eliminated as simply out of touch with reality. The other finalist was $20K higher than Buck Run for identical work and materials.
The chosen material was clear-grade western coastal red cedar, with a novel almost-clear oil finish that is not typically used by local wood suppliers or painters. Buck Run provided material samples, arranged for the finishing to be done before installation, demolished roughly 8,000 linear feet of old siding and 20 electrical outlets and lights, installed proper vapor barrier, installed the new siding, requiring a great deal of detailed fabrication and cutting, and new electrics. The work involved elevations of 45' on one wall, and work above the second floor on deck walls and chimney facings. Gutters were removed, cleaned, and rehung with a stronger support system. Outdoor electrical panels that are part of the service entrance and a generator connection were removed, siding installed, and the panels re-installed. Extras during the project included replacing one exterior door and frame, and extending one roof a few feet over an entry. The work was done in the planned 6 weeks, on budget. Numerous small hidden problems were discovered and repaired during the project, each with consultation and design discussions with the owners. The site was kept clean and orderly every day. One light fixture was damaged during the work, and was promptly replaced with a better quality fixture.
This project was by far and away the best repair experience we have had with a builder We own three homes around the country, and have done many projects, some larger than this and most smaller. We are demanding customers and we believe in doing things right the first time.
