Does quality matter?
Now, reading that question in the abstract just about anyone and everyone would say or nod “yes.”
Quality does matter to you, especially when you’re the one paying the bill. But beyond simply using the word “quality” — such as “quality workmanship” — how can you know that you are getting what you pay for?
That, at the end of the day (or remodeling project) you are “getting your money’s worth?”
How to define quality
Quality isn’t a word, or a promise. Rather, it’s a commitment to excellence.
So when it comes to identifying a remodeling company who can deliver a successful project that will meet or exceed your expectations and demands, how can you be sure that the items you can’t see are just as well done as the ones you can?
First, never select a contractor on price alone.
And though we’ve written about this before it’s worth repeating. The old and time-worn expression that “you get what you pay for” is especially true when it comes to construction and remodeling because so many elements that make up a home (and remodeling project) are items that you can’t see behind walls or under the floor.
And these are precisely the areas where corners could be cut without you being able to notice right away.
Some ways contractors cut corners is by using cheaper materials (like MDF – Medium Density Fiberboard – or whatever is cheaper and paintable). And though cheaper materials may “look nice” after they’re installed, caulked and painted, will they hold up to traffic and use day in and day out, year in and year out?
It does happen, more often than you might like to know, even when it comes to new construction. So beware of lower bids and ask yourself the simple question of “how could they price the job that low and still deliver quality?”
And that’s precisely the problem for most homeowners.
After all, you’re having work done in your home, not a museum where everything valuable is safely tucked away behind a red velvet rope. So quality of materials matter… if you want the new and updated spaces in your home to look beautiful several years down the road.
Next, when getting bids for your next project ask about the materials they will be using in your home. For example, where do they buy their materials, and what specific materials will be used.
After all, when it’s time to hire are a quality remodeler wouldn’t you want know if potentially harmful products with questionable warranties were used in YOUR home? Does the average homeowner realize that a warranty from an import company that contracts out the manufacturing of its products to the cheapest third-party manufacturer isn’t quite the same as a warranty from an established manufacturer putting its name on the product?
Other ways that you can generally expect quality is by knowing how large the remodeling company is, and how long they’ve been in business. Having all the necessary insurance, licenses, certifications and training takes time and costs money to maintain.
As well it should.
After all, would you choose to hire a “man in a van” who may or may not have any professional training, be knowledgeable of building codes, and perhaps has no license or insurance in place coming to your home to do a job?
Ask if the company you’re considering is a member in good standing of an organization like the BBB, NARI, or NAHB, which have established processes for resolving conflicts between members and their clients. Ask about their track record for completing projects similar to the one you’re getting a bid on. Ask about their timetable for completing the work, and who will be showing up to your home, and how often.
Ask, ask and ask again.
In all your interactions with the company do they seem professional to you? Do they answer the phone when you call, or return your call promptly? Do they show up to appointments on time, or give you a laundry list of excuses why they were late “again?” Do they have answers to your questions, or do they “fumble around” and mutter that they’ll have to get back to you on that? Do they seem experienced? Have they shown you testimonials of happy clients?
Quality begins long before a hammer starts swinging in your home.
A professional remodeling project begins with design, selection of materials, and installation.
All three elements should be handled by a seasoned professional to ensure that you ultimately “get what you pay for,” a project that meets your expectations and delivers quality today and for many years down the road.
Schedule your free in-home consultation today
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As a home improvement contractor with more than 60 years of experience we can turn your renovation dreams into remodeling reality. In fact, we have completed hundreds of remodeling projects, from master bathroom redesigns to home additions and more, and can do the same for you.
To schedule your free in-home consultation today you can click the link for our website (www.remodeling-consultants.com) or call our office at 914-381-6900.
We look forward to hearing from you.
