Have you determined that your home is due for some exterior remodeling? If so, now it’s time to decide who will do the job for you. Hiring the right exterior remodeling contractor is crucial, but finding one doesn’t have to be difficult. Check out our tips for selecting a trustworthy contractor so that when it’s time to begin your project, you’ll be confident about the changes ahead.
Know What You’re Looking For
Finding the right exterior remodeling contractor starts with knowing yourself and your house inside and out. Plan ahead of time, and determine what you want to change and how. What style, materials, and/or aesthetic are you looking for? Aim to be as precise as possible regarding the final outcome of your project, and don’t forget to consider the materials you wish to use and the funds available in your budget.
If you have a strategy in place ahead of time, it’ll be easier to acquire a more accurate estimate from potential contractors and compare them.
Ask For Recommendations
Finding a qualified licensed contractor to take on your project is easiest when you ask around or use word-of-mouth recommendations. Find out from family, friends, and neighbors who they’d recommend. Be sure to ask them specific questions about their experience such as what went well, how the contractor dealt with issues, and whether or not he or she would work with the same contractor again.
As you collect some recommendations, begin making a list and narrowing it down to 5-10 contractors you’d like to learn more about and potentially work with.
Conduct Preliminary Research and Phone Interviews
Once you’ve gathered a list of suggestions, begin your due diligence by doing some research on the contractors of interest. Take a look at their websites and be sure to check out online reviews from previous clients. After that, give the contractors a call and conduct a brief “phone interview.” Be sure to ask plenty of questions, such as:
- Do they work on projects that are similar to yours?
- Are they willing to provide you with a list of prior clients?
- Do they work on multiple projects at the same time? If so, how many?
- Is it possible for them to give financial references from banks or suppliers?
- How long have they been working with their vendors?
By getting the answers to these questions, you’ll be able to gauge a contractor’s availability, dependability, and overall efficiency.
Meet In Person
After speaking with several contractors over the phone, narrow down three or four that you’d like to meet face-to-face for additional discussion. During your meetings, make an effort to gain a sense of the contractor’s work ethic, priorities, and dedication.
Never be afraid to ask questions, either. Being thorough now can save you time and frustration in the long run. It’s important that your contractor can answer all of your questions in a way that makes you feel comfortable. Because this individual will be in your house for several hours at a time, it’s essential that you communicate well with one another, too.
Check References
During your meetings with the contractors, request to see some of the projects that they have worked on in the past. If you’re satisfied with their work, ask for references from previous clients and give them a call. Inquire about the performance of the contractors in completing the projects. Were they on schedule and within budget? Are the customers happy with the end result? Is there anything that could have been done differently?
When you hire an exterior remodeling contractor, remember that you are purchasing a service rather than a product. The quality of service has a direct impact on the final outcome of the project.
Get Bids and Hire
Lastly, it’s time to get quotes from the contractors on your list, and don’t let price be your guide! The cheapest bids may be tempting, but they aren’t necessarily the best choice. The most important thing for you to focus on is ensuring a high-quality service and installation process.
Start the negotiation process after you’ve found a bid you like. Before the project begins, make sure the contract is thorough and that you understand it. Once the remodeling work is underway, good communication is essential to the project’s success.
Choose E&E Contracting For Your Exterior Remodeling Project
If you’re on the hunt for an exterior remodeling contractor for your project, be sure to consider E&E General Contracting. We are committed to helping you achieve your construction dreams while providing an excellent customer experience. Get in touch with us today for a risk-free complimentary estimate and consultation.