Certified Installers and Builders, Architects and Specifiers
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Builders, Architects and Specifiers: Incorporating Certified Installer Requirements in Your Specifications
Vinyl siding is the only exterior cladding with both third-party product certification and certified installer programs, both of which are administered by an accredited, independent quality control agency to ensure that products and colors meet or exceed ASTM standards and that installers demonstrate knowledge of ASTM-accepted application techniques.
While certified vinyl siding installed by Certified Installers provides curb appeal and confidence to any home, improper vinyl siding installation can affect product performance and result in homeowner dissatisfaction. Installers who are trained and certified through the VSI Certified Installer Program, however, have demonstrated their knowledge of proper installation techniques, as validated by an independent third-party administrator.
Created in 2006, the VSI Certified Installer Program is based on ASTM D4756, Standard Practice for Installation of Rigid Poly(Vinyl Chloride) (PVC) Siding and Soffit, and includes three distinct levels of certification: Certified Installers, Certified Trainers, and Certified Installer Companies.
Are There Certified Installers Available in My Area?
There are approximately 4,000 Certified Installers across the United States and Canada. VSI recognizes individuals as Certified Installers based on a combination of work experience and successful completion of a course of training and examination based on the body of knowledge and applied skills needed to properly install vinyl siding as well as soffit and accessories.
A current online registry of VSI Certified Installers, Trainers, and Installer Companies can be found at www.vinylsiding.org/certifiedinstaller/. This registry is updated when new Certified Trainers or Installers receive their certification or if a change is made to the status of a Certified Trainer or Installer. Builders, architects and specifiers can also contact their vinyl siding suppliers or manufacturers for information on classes or having employees certified.
Builders, architects and specifiers are encouraged to require VSI Certified Installers and Certified Installer Companies, through requirements in their specifications, bids, and other procurements. Sample language that may be inserted into the specifications is available here.
Why Require Certified Installers?
Builders, architects and specifiers who require Certified Installers:
- Reduce punch lists, closing delays, and post-closing call backs
- Increase coordination between trades
- Maintain the manufacturer warranty
- Know that installers have been trained and tested on proper installation techniques
- Improve their reputation as quality builders
- Help market themselves by supporting a third-party certification program
- And do this at no cost to themselves!
