I have seen some extremely nice patio umbrellas with large bases that can cover quite a large area on a patio. These do not attach to the home and usually do not attract HOA disaprovals. I'd also recommend observing some of your neighbors and see what they have done to create shade on their patio. Finally contact your HOA and see what they suggest.   

I would also reccomend that you look at James Hardie webstie and look at their specs. In our market I have yet to see another contractor follow the specs (frankly not even close). By not following this the price can be quite a bit cheaper. That said it will void any waranty from James Hardie. 

Also I would make sure it is a pur Hardie job. Again in our market many substitute James Hardie trim with a much cheaper(frankly much easier to install) miratek trim. They will still call it a Hardie job but it is not. They also will replace actul Haride siding with a chepaer version called Cemplank. 

Just a few thoughts. 

Tim Brown

RGS Exteriors and Construciton

www.utahgutter.com

I agree with the first two comments, very good advice.

Here's some other things you might to consider:

You want to make sure that are able to make an apples to apples comparison with each of the estimates you receive. If one estimate is more detailed for example, ask the other contractor if their estimate includes these details that their competitor is offering & will they be willing to include it in writing? 

Ask for 10 references instead of 3. The reason I say 10 is because this will give you a better sample size of the contractor's experience and track record. Anybody who has been in the business (especially siding which has many annual clients) should have no problem giving you 10 satisfied, recent clients. Granted you don't have to call all 10 but even the worst contractor can probably scrape together 1-2 "positive" references. 

Go to their website. This day and age they should have a website. This should have pictures of their siding projects to view. They should also list their certifications and which products their install. 

Go with your gut! If a deal seams too good to be true it probably is. After you do your due dilligence be honest with yourself and choose the contractor that you feel you can trust and will provide the best product. Don't just use price to make your decision.

I strongly suggest go to James Hardie wedsite, download their installation instruction and get familiar with the process. We witness so many fiber cement siding that was done wrong. It may be wised to have a clause in the contract that the work will be done according to James Hardie's installation instruction.

Problem may not arise in few years and contractor's warranty on paper is a joke if he has no intension to honor it.

I totally agreed Mr. Jim Myers' suggestion to check on the contractor throughly.

The key is doing the job right the first time will save you a lot of headach down the road.

Good luck with your project.

If you are unsure check with the BBB. your state licensing board, and go look at several references where they have done instalations. Talk to the owners if you can and see how they were treated. These three things should tell you a lot about who you are dealing with. also have them give you the name of the brand of cement board and have them describe exactly what they propose to do. also look to see if one is prefinished and one is not. Prefinished are more expensive Good Luck.

http://www.ncsg.org/  The National Chimney Sweep Quild is a great source for licenced and certified professionals in your area. If they don't do the work, they will know someone in your area who does.

Philip Anderson

HDR Remodeling

Berkeley Ca

No, but have you thought about contacting a manufacturer and asking for a local referral. Sometimes it is an unknown fact but home remodeling product manufacturers have authorized dealers and installation crews listed on their site! This guarantees the best match. We always explain to homeowners having a certified installer is more important than price! Residential Renovations works very hard to make sure all installers from roofing, siding and windows to decking, sunrooms and beyond is installed by professional crew members who are trained as the manufacturer warranties. Good luck with your project! You can visit our website at www.ResidentialRenovations.com to learn more about Residential Renovations - serving Ohio and Michigan homeowners!

Sorry, I have never heard of it. Ipe is very nice, but a bit expensive. Keep in mind, sometimes you get what you pay for.

Marty Brummel

M.K. Brummel, Inc Fine Remodeling and Building

Stores like menards and home depots, etc. do in fact sell some things like these. If you're looking to have someone out to install, and do everything for you, you can try US Patio Systems. They have great products, great staff, and they're great with timing!

Unfortunately we do not do any type of awnings. What i would do is call the HOA and ask them what they allow back there.