Is this normal siding work or shoddy?

[Allen L.]

Since I'm remote investor, my contractor will send me pics of the rehab along the way. This is what he sent me before the siding project was completed. He used dutch lap vinyl siding. I see some dislocation (?) between siding parts. Marked one in the picture as an example.

Here is a close up pic of the back of the house.

I have very limited knowledge about proper vinyl siding construction, want your opinion if this is normal or shoddy work? If this is shoddy work, what is the proper way it should be done so I can explain to the contractor? 

[Sue Hough]

@Allen L.,

This pictures are not the best, but it does look good.  I will give you a few pointers on how to spot good siding for the future;

The seams are staggered, meaning they do not line up, which is good because you don’t want it to look like a vertical line.

The seams are “topped” in the same direction. Which translates to; the under piece is to the left and the overlapping piece is to the right.  It can be reversed, as long as they are the same throughout one side of the house. 

The j-channel is done properly around all windows and other penetrations.  

The siding is level above all windows.  Considering most older homes have settled the siding installer has to accommodate for this to make sure it looks level.

On the corners of the home the siding matches from one side to the other.

All of these have been done on your home.  Your siding installer gets a thumbs up based on the pics you provided.

Good luck,

Sue Hough