There’s only one thing more important than choosing your countertop, and that’s making sure you hire a company with qualified and well-trained workers. This can be difficult when you’ve never had to do something like this previously. When faced with this type of choice, many people will research for days or weeks and be no closer to their decision, wasting a lot of their valuable time.
What are some tips for hiring the best countertop installers?
Before hiring a countertop installation company, you want to gather relevant information. The easiest way is to ask any friends or family that have countertops installed and ask them if they’d recommend the company who installed their countertops. If you don’t know anyone that’s recently had work done, don’t worry. There are other ways.
Countertops are the main attraction of your kitchen, and you want them to look professional, perform well and last for many years. To do this, you must choose the best countertop installation company. Randomly calling companies and hiring the first one you talk to is the wrong decision; however, don’t worry, we have some tips below to assist you in making the correct choice.
Ask For Recommendations
Not only can you ask your friends and family for recommendations, but you can also ask other professionals. You probably have a local company that uses countertop installation companies. Local contracting companies, and building supply stores may have some ideas and interior design professionals. These businesses all work with various subcontractors and may have a few ideas for you. If this avenue is not for you, the internet is a great resource.
A strong online presence is a plus. Check out their website and listings online. A high quality website and listings with customer reviews should indicate the quality of work they deliver.
Interview Several Contractors
Now that you have a list of contractors, start interviewing them. Call them and ask them several questions. Such as the following.
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- How long have you been installing countertops?
- How many have you installed?
- How experienced are you in this type of countertop?
- Who will help you do the installation, and how skilled are they?
- Do you have any work going on now so I can see the process?
- What type of equipment they’ll use and if it’ up to date?
Ask About the Process
The company will be in your home for days or even weeks installing your countertops. Asking about their process and knowing the steps will give you an idea about what to expect. That and you may just be curious, which is good too.
Ask For References
Of course, asking contractors questions, is a great way to find out their business practices and how much experience they have. However, asking their past customers will give you a better idea of how well they do their job. When calling their reference, you’ll want to ask a few of the following questions.
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- What kind of work did the contractor do for you?
- How well did the contractor do their job?
- Did they provide you with an estimate and stick with the budget? If not, why didn’t they?
- Did they have the job done when they said they would?
- Would you hire this contractor again?
Watch for Up-charges and Get a Written Estimate
Some countertop companies advertise the lowest prices, and it may seem they are on the surface. Before hiring them to install your countertops, ask about any additional charges, you may incur. Most companies will give you a quote, including delivery, sink cut out, holes, installation, templates, and sealers. You want to go with a company that includes all of this in their price. Otherwise, you may be in for a big surprise when it comes time to pay.
If you’re purchasing the countertop from the company, there are some other things you’ll need to ask. We’ll address those below.
Ask About the Stone Quality
Some companies may not provide enough information about the countertop you’re interested in. Ask them about the stone’s quality, if they offer premium or inexpensive, and the differences between them. Ask about imperfections in the stone and well as the grade.
See the Countertop Before Buying It
Of course, you’ll get to see pictures and samples, but you also need to see the actual countertop to see what it looks like in person.
Select a Countertop Installation Service
Once all of these steps are completed, and you’re still unsure, go with your gut. While pricing is important, don’t make that your final choice. Take notes during the interviews and choose the one that best fits your need.
At Texas Granite Group located in the Austin area, we have 20+ years of experience with a reputation of the highest quality work in the countertop and remodeling industry. Using the highest quality stone available, in the most unique designs and colors ensures you will get the most use and enjoyment out of your kitchen countertop remodel and bathroom renovation.
Our specialty is the design and installation of granite, quartz, and marble so that your kitchen and bathroom countertops will look and feel incredible. Visit us at our impressive showroom and see why we are a top choice for countertops and remodeling in Texas homes! Free Consultations