Front view of a wooden cabin with large triangular windows and a blue sky reflection

Frequently Asked Questions


Roofing • Siding • Windows • Exterior Services

Serving MA • NH • VT Since 1986

We believe educated homeowners make confident decisions.

Below are answers to the most common questions we receive about roofing, siding, windows, masonry, garage doors, and exterior renovations.

If you don’t see your question here, contact us — we’re happy to help.

General Company Questions


  • How long has MasterCraft been in business?

    MasterCraft has been serving homeowners since 1986.


    Through four economic recessions, we’ve remained stable by focusing on quality workmanship, honest pricing, and referral-based growth.

  • Are you licensed and insured?

    Yes.


    We are:


    • Fully licensed
    • Insured contractor & installer
    • CSL Licensed
    • RRP (Lead-Safe) Licensed
    • EPA Lead-Safe Certified

    We follow all state and federal safety guidelines.

  • Do you use salespeople?

    No.


    Your estimate is prepared by a licensed construction professional, not a commissioned salesperson.


    We explain your options clearly, review pros and cons, and let you decide.

  • Are you a franchise?

    No.


    We are a family-owned business, not a franchise operation.

  • Where do you provide services?

    We serve:


    • Eastern Massachusetts
    • All of New Hampshire
    • Most of Vermont

    Including coastal, inland, and mountain communities.


Roofing Questions


  • How long does a roof replacement take?

    Most residential roofing projects are completed in one day, depending on size and weather conditions.

  • What types of roofing do you install?

    We install:


    • Asphalt shingles
    • Standing seam metal roofing
    • Metal shingles
    • Synthetic roofing systems
    • Rubber roofing (EPDM for flat or low-slope roofs)

    We help you choose the right system for your home and budget.

  • How do I know if I need a new roof?

    Common signs include:


    • Curling or missing shingles
    • Leaks or ceiling stains
    • Granule loss
    • Ice dam issues
    • Roof age over 20–30 years

    We provide honest evaluations — if you don’t need a roof yet, we’ll tell you.



Siding Questions


  • What is fiber cement siding?

    Fiber cement siding is primarily made of cement, sand, and cellulose fibers. It is engineered to resist:


    • Rot
    • Fire
    • Moisture
    • Termites
    • Wind damage

  • What brands of fiber cement siding do you install?

    There are several manufacturers in the market, but James Hardie® is the #1 residential fiber cement brand in America.


    MasterCraft is a James Hardie Elite Preferred Contractor — the highest recognition level.

  • What is a "Preferred" James Hardie contractor?

    James Hardie Preferred contractors meet strict installation standards, follow manufacturer guidelines, and demonstrate consistent excellence.


    All Hardie installations are registered in the official warranty portal.


  • Is fiber cement better than vinyl siding?

    Both are low maintenance, but they differ.

    Fiber cement:


    • Nailed firmly to the structure
    • Noncombustible
    • Highly wind resistant
    • Designed for specific climate zones

    Vinyl siding:


    • Lower upfront cost
    • Installed loosely for expansion
    • Can fade or melt under high heat

    We explain the pros and cons so you can make the right decision.


  • How long does siding installation take?

    Most siding projects are completed in approximately 10 days, depending on size and complexity.


Window & Door Questions


  • Are your windows Energy Star rated?

    Yes. We install Energy Star® compliant window systems designed for the Northeast climate zone.

  • What makes a window energy efficient?

    Key features include:


    • Low-E glass coatings
    • Argon or Krypton gas insulation
    • Warm-edge spacer systems
    • Proper installation and sealing
  • How long does window replacement take?

    Most residential window installations are completed in one day, depending on the number of units.

  • Do you install entry doors?

    Yes. We install energy-efficient entry and patio doors, including certified Therma-Tru® systems.


Masonry Questions


  • Do you repair chimneys?

    Yes. We provide chimney repair, repointing, flashing integration, and structural masonry restoration.


Garage Door Questions


  • Do you install insulated garage doors?

    Yes. We install energy-efficient insulated garage door systems designed for New England weather.

  • Can I upgrade to a smart garage door opener?

    Yes. Smart openers with WiFi control and smartphone integration are available.


Project Process Questions


  • How soon can my project start?

    Start dates vary based on season and project scope. We provide accurate scheduling and keep you informed throughout the process.

  • Do you offer written estimates?

    Yes. All estimates are detailed and transparent.

  • Will there be hidden costs?

    No.


    We provide clear pricing and review scope before work begins. If changes are requested, we discuss them before proceeding.

  • How do you keep job sites clean?

    We:


    • Protect landscaping
    • Use proper debris containment
    • Clean up daily
    • Conduct final walkthrough inspections
  • What makes MasterCraft different?

    • In business since 1986
    • Family-owned
    • Licensed professionals — not salespeople
    • James Hardie Elite Preferred installer
    • Factory-trained crews
    • Clean job sites
    • Referral-based growth

    This process may not make us the biggest company — but it has made us one of the most trusted.


Rainbow over a calm lake at sunset, with a dock and posts in the foreground.

Still Have Questions?


We’re happy to help.

Call, email, text, or schedule an appointment online.

  • No pressure.
  • No gimmicks.
  • Just honest answers and professional craftsmanship.