Low cost Providers and Materials

Low cost Providers and Materials

When you are planning your remodeling project, do not let your wallet dictate your actions.  It is better to delay your project to have the results that you want than to take short cuts or go with the least expensive options.

This is especially true when looking at big remodeling projects like Kitchens, Bathrooms and Floors.  Remember you will be living with the end result for years so you need to make sure that you make wise decisions and do not select materials or contractors because they are the least expensive.  

When researching contractors, review ratings on places like the Better Business Bureau, Angie’s List, Houzz, etc.  Ask to review their general liability insurance policy. Spend time on their websites to review their work.  Ask for references and actually talk to people that they completed work for recently.  Keep in mind, some contractors do not have good project management skills and may take weeks or months to complete the work.  Make sure that your contractor has good management skills as well as good trade skills. You want your home back in order sooner rather than later.

When looking at materials go on-line and research.   Check out consumer reports and look for any articles written about issues with the products.  This is especially important for products that have been under fire in the media ( Lumber Liquidators.)  Many products look similar from the surface but do not have the same level of quality.  For example with Engineered Hardwood looks the same from the surface but the wear layer may be paper thin on an inexpensive product. This means that it cannot be refinished and it may only last 5-7 years depending on how many scratches get put in it over time.

If a price is too good to be true, walk away.  More than likely you will experience the headaches that come from a contractor cutting corners because they bid the project too low.  As contractors, we are in business to make money.