4 Things to Consider When Hiring a Masonry Contractor
Masonry contractors work with a variety of materials including brick, concrete, and stone. As such, you are in the market for a structure to be built using one of these materials, then masonry contractors are the ones you should consult. That said, if you have no experience with masonry projects, it is best to consider a number of factors before getting in touch with a masonry contractor in your area. Take a look below at just four of the most important things to think about.
Completed Projects
The first thing you'll want more details about before starting a project is previous projects done by a particular masonry contractor. The best contractors will have a complete portfolio ready to show you at a moment's notice that includes photographs, blueprints, and references by past clients, to name just a few examples. All of this information will undoubtedly help you come to a more informed decision about the quality of the contractor's work and the kind of finished product that you can reasonably expect. A masonry contractor that does not have a physical portfolio (or online version) might do great work, but it is rarely worth risking the time and money necessary to find out.
Warranties
Another thing you'll want to consider when comparing the policies of masonry contractors is what their warranties entail. You should ask to be provided with a full written breakdown of exactly what the policy covers and what it excludes. If you feel that the warranty is unsatisfactory for any reason, don't hesitate to sit down with a contractor and negotiate the finer points of the contract. These may relate to the quality of the stone or brick used, the mortar and additives that hold them together, or the construction methods utilized.
Materials
Pictures of other past projects and clear written warranties should put your mind at ease when choosing a masonry contractor, but it may still be difficult to imagine what the project will actually look like once it is finished. For this reason, it is especially important to request samples of the materials that the masonry contractor plans to use. By having samples readily available, you will have an easier time establishing expectations for what the masonry contractor will provide as a final product. Looking at and choosing from various materials will also give you more control over the variables in the project, which can give the project a far more personalized appearance.