Why Certification Is No Longer Optional for Exterior Contractors
In today’s highly competitive remodeling and exterior contracting market, simply offering low prices or fast installs is not enough. Homeowners are more informed than ever—and they want contractors who can prove their expertise. That is why earning respected third-party certifications is not just a good idea; it’s a critical move for contractors who want to stay relevant, win more jobs, and protect their margins.
Credentials from trusted programs like the Vinyl Siding Institute (VSI), OSI Certified Window Installation, and NACHI Exterior Building Certification offer tangible proof that you meet industry-leading standards. They show that you have the knowledge and skills to deliver real quality—not just promises. And the longer you wait to certify, the more opportunity you’re losing.
Richards Building Supply is here to support you through the process. By using tools like RBS CRM and the RBS Virtual Design Center, you can promote your certifications and maximize your close rates once you take the crucial step of earning them.
Waiting Costs You More Than You Think
Every week you delay earning your certifications is a week you are potentially losing business to better-prepared competitors. Homeowners are increasingly prioritizing credentials when they choose contractors. Builders, property managers, and insurance adjusters are leaning toward certified professionals they can trust to meet standards without second-guessing workmanship.
Without certifications, you’re left competing on price alone—the fastest way to drive down your margins and erode your brand. Meanwhile, certified contractors are closing larger jobs, winning higher-margin projects, and building lasting reputations that pay off over years, not just one season.
Waiting doesn’t just cost you money now—it delays your entire business trajectory.
VSI Certification: Professionalism Homeowners Notice Immediately
A VSI Certified Installer designation signals that you know how to install siding systems for maximum performance, durability, and curb appeal. Poor siding installation is one of the most common causes of warranty failures and customer complaints.
If you’re not VSI certified, you’re missing a prime opportunity to separate yourself from less skilled competitors—and leaving yourself exposed to callbacks and costly mistakes.
By sourcing siding through Richards Building Supply, contractors have access to the best materials and the tools needed to showcase their VSI certification during every sales call. Using RBS CRM, you can weave your certification into every touchpoint. The RBS Virtual Design Center lets homeowners visualize what professionally installed siding will look like on their own homes, building trust before the first nail is driven.
OSI Certified Window Installation: Securing Your Reputation
Windows are only as good as the installation behind them. OSI Certified Installers are trained to ensure that new windows are correctly integrated into the building envelope, dramatically reducing the risk of air and water leaks.
Without OSI certification, you risk future service calls, warranty disputes, and damage to your reputation. OSI training doesn’t just teach you how to install—it ties your workmanship to proven systems recognized across the industry.
Richards Building Supply provides the certified OSI products you need. With RBS CRM, you can automatically include OSI credentials in your proposals and job documentation. Show customers the visual difference between sloppy installations and professional flashing and sealing with the RBS Virtual Design Center, turning every consultation into a closing opportunity.
NACHI Exterior Certification: Position Yourself as a Building Expert
The NACHI Exterior Building Certification arms contractors with total envelope expertise, covering roofs, siding, flashing, drainage, and more. With this certification, you’re not just another subcontractor—you’re a trusted advisor on the entire building shell.
Waiting to certify here leaves money on the table, especially for high-value insurance restoration work and bundled exterior renovation packages. Builders and homeowners will pay more for trusted expertise, but they need proof—proof you can provide through NACHI certification.
Richards Building Supply helps contractors integrate NACHI credentials into their proposals and presentations through RBS CRM. Use the Virtual Design Center to provide full exterior consultations that reinforce your value and make your quotes stand apart.
Every Day You Wait = Lost Revenue and Lost Market Share
Certification isn’t a someday project. It’s a now project. Every lead you meet without certification is an opportunity for a competitor to walk in with credentials and walk out with the contract.
Third-party certifications:
- Increase close rates immediately
- Allow you to sell value instead of defending price
- Build your brand’s authority
- Reduce callbacks and rework costs
- Improve customer satisfaction and lead to more referrals
When combined with the power of Richards Building Supply, RBS CRM, and the RBS Virtual Design Center, certifications become even more valuable. You won’t just install roofs, siding, and windows—you will deliver trust, professionalism, and peace of mind that customers will pay a premium for.
Final Takeaway: Get Certified. Get Serious. Get Growing.
In today’s market, contractors without certifications are falling behind—and fast. Don’t let competitors outpace you. Get your VSI, OSI, and NACHI certifications now and start presenting yourself as the professional homeowners are searching for.
Professionalism isn’t a bonus anymore—it is a requirement.
Waiting costs too much. Start today.
View a few testimonials here.
Clint Klepp
Director of Sales and Marketing
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