It can be intimidating to choose someone to work on your home or business, especially when it comes to installing protective flooring. You need to trust that they know what they're doing and can answer any questions or concerns you have. Unfortunately, not everyone who offers a good price can be trusted. In this technological era, computers and smartphones can help you research and find a trustworthy contractor. Here's a short checklist to help you narrow down your search:
Check their experience: Look for a contractor with years of experience in the industry. Experience is a good indicator of their skill and knowledge.
Read reviews: Check reviews from previous customers to see what they have to say about the contractor's work. Look for patterns in the reviews, both positive and negative.
Verify licenses and insurance: Make sure the contractor is licensed and insured. This protects you and your property in case something goes wrong.
Look for certifications: Check if the contractor has any certifications or special training. This shows their commitment to their craft and their willingness to stay up-to-date on industry standards.
Get references: Ask the contractor for references from previous jobs. Contact those references to get their feedback on the contractor's work.
By checking these items off your list, you can feel confident in your decision to hire an experienced and knowledgeable contractor for your flooring needs.
RESEARCH
To find the right epoxy flooring contractor, it's important to first educate yourself on the different types of epoxy coatings available. Take the time to research and learn about each product and what it offers. It's also important to consider where you want the epoxy installed and ensure that the flooring is suitable for that specific area. Once you have a better understanding of what you need, start looking for contractors who are either located nearby or are willing to come to your area.
LICENSURE AND INSURANCE ARE IMPORTANT
It is crucial to discuss the contractor's license and insurance during the first conversation. This should not be a topic that is ignored or overlooked. If you are uncomfortable asking in person or over the phone, you can always conduct research online to verify the information provided by the company. If you are unable to locate the license information on your own, do not hesitate to ask the contractor. If they are hesitant or unwilling to provide this information, it may be a red flag and you should consider finding a different contractor. Before hiring a contractor, do your due diligence and research their company thoroughly. Make sure that everything they have promised you is documented in writing. Additionally, request copies of their insurance and other necessary paperwork. Insurance is particularly important because it protects you from any damage that may occur to your property while the contractor is working. If the damage is caused by the contractor, their insurance should cover the cost of repairs.
REPUTATIONS SPEAK LOUDLY
Sure, it's always a good idea to check multiple sources for reviews to get a well-rounded understanding of a company's reputation. Make sure to look for credible reviews from reliable sources and consider both positive and negative feedback.
In addition, you can also check if there have been any legal actions taken against the company by searching for any lawsuits filed against them. This can provide insight into any potential issues or concerns that may not have been mentioned in customer reviews.
REFERENCES ARE YOUR FRIEND
When researching potential contractors or service providers, it's important to remain vigilant and wary of any indications that their reviews may be misleading or disingenuous. One way to assess their authenticity is to request a list of references from the company, as any reputable business should be able to provide past clients who can provide honest assessments of their experiences. Additionally, a reliable company will likely be eager to showcase their work and may offer visual examples or contact information for past clients. Finally, it can be helpful to request a portfolio of their previous projects, as this can offer valuable insight into their style, capabilities, and level of professionalism. Remember that the opinions of previous customers are often the most reliable indicator of a company's quality and worthiness of consideration.
GET IT IN WRITING:
It is imperative to emphasize that verbal promises and agreements do not hold legal weight. Therefore, any assurances or commitments made verbally should also be put in writing and signed to ensure their validity. Any agreements, contracts, or warranties pertaining to the work before, during, and after completion should always be documented in writing. While it may not be uncommon for a contractor or company to request a deposit prior to commencing work, it is crucial that the terms and expectations of the agreement are outlined in writing and signed by both parties. It is essential to read and examine any warranties thoroughly to ensure that they align with your expectations. If not, it is advisable to seek alternatives that will meet your needs.
LONGEVITY IN THE BUSINESS:
The length of time a business has been in operation does not necessarily dictate its level of quality or competence. In fact, a newer company may possess a greater degree of talent and be better suited to your specific needs. Instead of focusing on the longevity of the business, it is more beneficial to assess the expertise and experience of the individual contractors who will be working on your project. This can be accomplished by reviewing the contractor's past projects and requesting samples of their work if necessary. It is also important to obtain references for both the individual contractor and the company as a whole, as this can offer insight into the quality of their work and level of customer satisfaction.
ARE THEY OFFERING YOU WHAT YOU WANT?
Assuming you have conducted thorough research and have a clear idea of what you desire, it is crucial to ensure that the epoxy flooring company you plan to engage is capable of providing the specific type of coating that is most appropriate for your space. It is essential that the details regarding the type of coating you want and the type of coating they are using are clearly outlined in the contract. Ask pointed questions to clarify details about the primers, colors, designs, and installations. If you prefer a specific brand of flooring, it is imperative to communicate this preference with the company before a contract is drafted. This will help ensure that you receive the precise coating and brand that you desire.
PREP THE FLOORS:
It is important to consider if the company's preparation methods are appropriate for your particular space. Prior to starting an installation, certain measures must be taken and if the company is unable to address these concerns, it is best to swiftly depart from them. Performing moisture and temperature tests are imperative for a proper installation. Before applying any coating, it is crucial to repair and clean the floors. It is essential to ensure that the floors are free of any previous coatings, paints, oils, or stains. If the company is unable to handle dirty floors, it is necessary to find a different one. Utilize available resources and trust your instincts. Don't hire any company to work on your floors.