Why not call and leave a message that states that if he does not return your call by tomorrow at 8am, you will have no other choice…you will call another contractor to complete the job? Yes, I deal with contractors all the time. I do not pay ½ up front, either. That’s a crap idea. Do you get paid wages before you work? I’ll pay a deposit, or I’ll go and pay for materials, but I refuse to pay jack up front.