Finally decided that the stone or brick around your porch needs some work done or your fireplace needs some tuckpointing? Can’t stand the sight of that faulty window? House improvement needs can be quite daunting especially if you do not have any idea on who to call to get things done. Specific tasks such as building brick walls, stone patios and fireplaces usually do not require hiring a general contractor. For these cases hiring a masonry contractor is the best option to get the best results you need for your house.
A masonry contractor is a professional who is trained in a number of construction and building techniques in home building projects. They are experts in working on different materials such as natural rock, brick, clay, and ceramics. However, it is important to note that not all masons have the same degree of expertise. This is why it is important to look up different options before hiring someone for the job. In this article, we are going to share 7 tips on how to select the right masonry contractor for your house needs:
1.Make a checklist
The masonry contractor can check your house for you, but it is also important that you go around and check these things on your own home. This will give you an idea on the extent of the repairs you needed. Also, doing this will save you time and resources. Missing a thing or two would mean having to hire another masonry contractor sometime later. Also, having people work on your house is quite uncomfortable so make sure to include all these things, so you do not have to go through the ordeal of moving stuff, and leaving your work to check on the progress being done in your house.
2.Check your area for businesses offering this service
Get in contact with at least three masonry contractors before deciding which one to hire. Now that you have a list of the things they need to work on, you can decide which one fits more accurately to your needs. Since each one has their own specialty, you need to decide clearly which one can deliver your desired outcomes.
3.Research on the Credibility of these companies
In addition to talking to them directly, it is also important to research about them through
their past customers. This will give you feedback on how they worked before. Aside from
good quality work, it is also important that they are courteous and respectful. You can
also ask them for their references and check their websites. After all you would not just
let anybody walk in on your personal space.
Make sure you are comfortable with their work ethics.
4.Compare prices
Get estimates from these contractors and negotiate with them on the price. They shall
be able to give you options for materials and installment costs. Also, it is important to
note which one can work within the budget you have allotted.
5.Ask questions
Always ask questions if there are some things that are not clear to you during your
communication with your prospective masonry contractor. Unfamiliar terms on what the
Job entails should be explained clearly and concisely especially if it has a big effect on
the quality and costs of the project.
6.Draw up the Contract
Tips 1-5 will help you decide which one to hire. If you are finally comfortable with one, you can move onto the next step which is to draw the contract. When making the contract, you should clarify the services covered, timelines, payment, how many people are going to work on the project, the materials, and the nitty gritty points of the transaction such as who is in charge of cleaning the place after the work is done.
7.Monitor the progress
Now that you have chosen your masonry contractor, the job is not finish yet! You have to
also be hands on in monitoring their progress. This will ensure that the contract is
followed and the work done will meet your expectations or even exceed them.
Worry less about your house improvement needs by hiring a professional. Paying for a masonry contractor with good reputation will not only give you fast result which lives up to the highest standards, but it will also make your home improvement process stress-free!