Do you know what to look for in a masonry company?
There’s a lot of focus on how well decorated our homes are on the inside, but the outside is important too. After all, first impressions count for everything.
Good masonry is one of the first things people will see and notice as they approach your home so you have to get it right. But if you’re not an expert, how do you get the right masonry company for the job?
Don’t worry, we can help answer that! Keep reading for our guide on everything you need to know about hiring a masonry company.
Get a Few Bids
You want to get bids from at least 3 different masonry companies. This isn’t only about getting the best price. It’s about meeting each masonry contractor.
They’ll spend a lot of time on your property, so you need to know how their work and get an idea of who they are. They should be able to tell you what they think needs doing and how they will tackle the job.
A good firm will also give you different bids based on different masonry materials and project scales. They should come prepared for your meeting with samples and clear, concise quotes.
Ask Questions
Most likely, you’re hiring a masonry firm because brickwork isn’t your strong suit. Because of this, make sure you’re asking questions about the project and what it entails.
Find out about the processes and what materials they use and why. Grill them about the details, as this is what will count in the end for the final result.
Ask things like:
- Who will manage the project and can I meet them first?
- Do you use subcontractors, if so, who?
- Can you match my existing brick?
- Will I get this all in a written, signed contract?
- Do you have insurance, licenses and are they bonded?
The best masonry contractors will explain it all, without making your head spin. Communication is key, and the first step to a happy working relationship for you both.
Check References & Reviews
You want a masonry firm like Masonry | Imperial Landscaping & Masonry that is reliable. You need to be able to trust them to get the job done.
To put your mind at ease, ask for references and look only for company reviews. The Better Business Bureau is a good place to start. But they should have a list of satisfied references who can’t wait to tell you of their experience.
Don’t Go Off Price
One of the most important masonry tips is not to pick someone on price alone. Yes, the lowest price is hard to resist, but it’s not enough to guarantee a good job.
Compare what you’re getting for that price with other bids and the quality of the work with references. If a low bid seems too good of a deal, it often is.
Get a Written Contract
When you find a masonry contractor you want to move forward with, get the details written in a contract. Some crucial items to include are:
- The original quote
- Itemized breakdown of labor and materials
- Timeframe and completion date
- Payment plan and options
This will solidify everyone’s expectations and provide concrete proof of the job’s details. Should anything go wrong, it will back you up in any legal claims.
Choosing a Masonry Company Made Simple
So, now you’ve read our masonry guide, you’ll be sure to choose the right masonry company for you. Make sure you’re shopping around, and don’t get lured in with the lowest price. Ask questions, check references and make sure you get everything in a signed contract.
If you found this article helpful, be sure to check out our other blog posts for more tips, tricks, and guides.
