[too much stuff]

On the flip side of things, I haven't looked at any new jobs for over a month now. (too busy with what I have already) Most homeowners think that it is no big deal to just stop by and give a quote. They don't realize the time and effort into doing this. I put out quite a few bids this spring with MANY hours invested and not so much as a return call for even a simple thanks on quite a few of them. Worst year for that by far. I still get an occasional call now about giving an estimate, I tell them I don't have time and they still want a price on it. If I don't have time to do the job, why would I bid it?

Last one was a call from a guy about new siding and windows on a decent sized house. Said he was very serious about getting it done this year. I told him I had a day I could meet with him and he had to schedule a time for me as to not cross paths with the other 2 or 3 contractors coming the same day. I just told him to give me a call if they didn't work out.

So to answer the original question, the contractors are not hiding, Around here it is trying to find out who is serious and who is just shopping right now. Keep in mind it is a seasonal business here.