Things to Consider Before Hiring a Contractor
From outdoor living spaces to indoor sanctuaries, this time of year means a plethora of projects. But even for the most seasoned home improvement DIY-er, it sometimes makes sense to call in a professional for advice or assistance. Here are some tips that The Paint Doctor thinks you need to know before hiring a contractor to bring your projects to fruition.
Do your homework
Don’t underestimate the power of thorough research. Make sure you know the real requirements for a quality job, and the consequences of doing things wrong, cost of repairing their mistakes and stress it may put on the family when it takes so long or it has to be done over. Many people think, for example, that wallpapering or painting is easy and can be done quickly and inexpensively – and still look good. Altanta’s Paint Doctor is regularly hired to do corrective work because a homeowner tried unsuccessfully to do his/her own wallpapering or painting or hired someone randomly to do it.
Be realistic
There are complexities involved with quality painting, remodeling, and wallpapering that many homeowners don’t realize. There are benefits to having a very experienced, well-organized company do the work. With painting or wall covering, for example, Atlanta’s Paint Doctor knows which products and finishes will work for a particular surface. The right contractor — whether he wields a hammer or a paint brush — is licensed and insured, meets deadlines and offers a workmanship warranty.
Leave some things to the pros
Anything that can affect the value of your home should be left to the professionals. This includes projects that deal with codes, energy or green, and frankly anything that’s close to requiring a building permit. Atlanta’s Paint Doctor has heard stories of homeowners attempting tiling, flooring and such, only to find out that their lack of experience results in a defect, giving the manufacturer the out of blaming any issues on installation and leaving the homeowner responsible.
Research again
Once you’ve made the decision to reach out to the pros on a particular project, the real work begins. The National Association of Home Builders advises creating a detailed list of professionals in your area. Confirm that they operate a permanent place of business with long-term ties to the community, carry a license and insurance, and have a trustworthy list of references. After meeting with them, receiving estimates and checking references, you’ll have all you need to make an informed decision.
