Philadelphia's permit rules for windows, doors, wall covering and decks, the contractor rule for one- and two-family homes, historic-property review, and why the age of the housing matters.
National price ranges from five cost surveys for siding, windows, doors and decks, why they differ, the extras quotes leave out, and what Pennsylvania law says about deposits.
A step-by-step way to pick a siding, window, door or deck contractor: the state registration lookup, insurance, EPA lead certification for older homes, comparable bids and a contract that meets the law.