subject: Masonry Contractors: A Simple Guide [print this page] Masonry and demolition companies are specialized form of contractors. There are general contracting businesses that focus on brick layering and others are skilled in concrete masonry. When you are looking to fix some masonry work done, make sure you get help from the right professionals. You wouldnt want to spend money on low quality work done by unlicensed professionals. Finding a good and reputable masonry contractor is quite a hard task.
Many states do not impose laws with regards to masonry licensing. It is no fun at all to be ripped off by a so called contractor and this is unfortunately getting rampant nowadays. Here are handy tips when looking for skilled and professional masonry contractors.
Assess the work that needs to be accomplished and narrow down the repairs or job that has to be completed. Would you want to replace the sidewalk at your homes lawn or do you prefer to have a retaining wall? Just like most car mechanics, masonry contractors often have their own specializations. You wouldnt want to go through several pages of concrete masonry companies when all you really need is a professional brick work done. Narrowing down your very own project scope will help you lessen the number of general contractor choices you have. This will help you find a reputable and honest contractor that meets all your construction needs.
Research for general contracting companies within your neighborhood. Get a reputable local masonry contractor that understands your needs as a homeowner. You can do a little background check with the help of the Better Business Bureau. Search some of the yellow pages in phone books and feel free to go online for a list of local masonry contractors. Ask friends, relatives and coworkers about their previous experiences with general contracting companies. Shop around for referrals. If you can ask someone who has been ripped off by a contracting company what their biggest mistake was, he would likely admit that he didnt look and research enough. Consumers are already savvier and wiser these days. You can also ask the masonry contractor to present sample works and referrals as well.
Collect their project estimates. Contractors are aware of the fact that you only want the best deal out of this transaction. Watch out for budget estimates that seem too good to be true. Typically, contractors wont include everything in their estimate such as container rentals, dumper rentals, and other building licenses in the state.
