You can enhance your home’s aesthetics and resale value by using natural stone on both the outside and the inside. Stone work done to your home’s exterior will increase curb appeal and help protect your home from the harsh elements. You can also use it inside to create beautiful fireplaces, columns and feature walls.
Stone and masonry work is not a good job for DIYers. If it is done incorrectly, the installation might not last and you will have to call in a masonry company to repair and even replace it for you. Masonry contractors like Stone Solutions Inc. in Edmonton are masters of their trade and will pay close attention to every detail of your project. When you hire the right stone masonry contractor and you’ll achieve a beautiful, valuable and durable home upgrade. Here are some tips on hiring the right stone masonry contractor:
Do your research.
Ask people you trust, like friends, family and co-workers, if they have worked with a stone or masonry contractor they can recommend. You can also do some online research and make a list of companies, checking with third-party organizations like the Better Business Bureau and RenovationFind.com to ensure they are a reputable company like Stone Solutions.
Ask for a business license and insurance.
Be wary of unlicensed ‘renovators’ or self-proclaimed handymen listed on sites like Kijiji. You should never hire a contractor or person to do any work on your home unless they can provide a valid business license and insurance, including WCB coverage. This will protect you from fly-by-night contractors, getting ripped off or being liable for any damage or accidents that might happen on the job site.
Ask for estimates.
Every company charges differently. For example, one company might charge per brick or per stone while another might give you an estimate based on an hourly rate for labour plus product. Some charge per square foot and so on. Find out how they are going to charge you and what the total cost will be for your project.
Don’t cheap out.
Remember that the cheapest estimate is not always the best one to choose. Stone masonry is a skilled trade and an art that takes years of training and experience to master. You want to make sure that your project is done correctly and that they’re using high quality materials. Hiring a cheaper, inexperienced contractor could have bad results and you’ll have to hire another contractor to come in and make repairs.
Check out some of their previous work.
Any reputable contractor will have no problem providing you with references of previous jobs. You can call their previous clients to see if they are happy with the work and if they had a good experience working with the company. Ask to see any interior projects, or if you’re interested in exterior stonework, you can also do a quick drive-by previous homes they have worked on to see how the finished product looks. You should also ask the company if they’ve ever done a project like yours.
Get a contract in writing.
Once you’ve chosen a stone masonry contractor you’re happy with, make sure you get a written contract highlighting all of the work they will be doing on your home. The contract should include a detailed cost-breakdown listing all costs for labour, materials and other cost that might come along. The contract will also include the details of your project, a start date and schedule.
Hire Stone Solutions, Stone Masonry Contractors in Edmonton
Stone Solutions is an Edmonton based masonry company with over 20 years of combined experience in construction. With a dedicated staff they know how to get the job done and meet their client’s needs. Their commitment to you, like their product, is rock solid. Make an appointment to visit their showroom and start planning your stone renovation.
Contact Stone Solutions today!
