Whether you are updating your kitchen or reworking the entire layout, choosing the right countertops is no easy task. Due to the wide variety of materials out there, as well as brands and price ranges, you may find yourself stumped when it comes to selecting a countertop and the contractor to fabricate and install it. Before you commit to any professional service, it is important to know if they are trustworthy and reputable. One of the best ways to do that is by asking the right questions during the consultation.
Make an informed decision by asking the following:
Do You Hold Professional Accreditation or Certifications?
One of the easiest ways to determine whether a business is trustworthy is whether they hold current certification or accreditation. They should be a member of an organization that ensures the quality of their work and skill. Be sure to ask about the company’s credentials, experience, and insurance. For example, Marble Concepts has been in business for over 30 years and has experience working with marble, quartz, granite, and many other materials.
May I See Examples of Previous Work?
It is always smart to ask a countertop contractor about their previous work. You will want to see the before and after in most cases. Look to see if they have projects similar to your own. Being able to see the specialist’s success not only confirms that they are indeed good at what they do. It also boosts your confidence in their work.
Do You Offer Slab Viewing of Materials in Stock?
Did you know that you can often get better prices when viewing the slabs the contractor has in stock? If you want to save some money, inquire about the slab viewing policies. The countertop specialist may also be able to point you to some slabs in materials that you did not originally consider. That way, you can fully weigh your options and make the best pick.
Does Your Company Handle the Fabrication and Installation?
Fabricating stone countertops and installing them requires two different sets of skills and equipment. In some instances, a company may outsource the fabrication to another contractor and then use their employees to do the installation. However, it is always better to minimize the points of contact. Fewer people mean fewer chances of errors.
If you are looking for a one-stop countertop shop, consider Marble Concepts. Come and pick out your slab and the design template. From there, one of our skilled craftsmen will begin the fabrication process. Our team will also install your brand-new countertop. Down the road, should you need some routine maintenance done, we can help with that as well.
Is There a Warranty on the Products and Workmanship?
Proper maintenance can greatly extend the life of any countertop. Natural stone countertops, as well as engineered quartz, can last many years. Due to the natural longevity of such materials, most manufacturers or fabricators will provide you with a long-term or lifelong warranty on the product and workmanship. For example, Caesarstone offers a lifetime warranty on the quality of its products.
That being said, it is always wise to double-check with warranty policies. You want to know how long the warranty lasts and what could potentially void it.
Can I Have Input on the Slab Layout and Template?
You want your countertop to look unique and beautiful. That’s understandable. Meanwhile, your contractor is going to attempt to balance the cost and visual impact. In other words, they will come up with a variety of ways to install the countertop. You may choose to have your countertop installed with a honed template or a specific kind of edge. Discuss these options during your consultation for a new countertop, so your contractor has a good idea about what you want.
If you are unsure, a specialist will be able to provide recommendations on the most aesthetically pleasing yet practical choices.
How Long Does a Project Like This Normally Take?
Granted, every project is different and has its own challenges. While a full timeline can be agreed upon later, discussing the remodeling plan and outline during your consultation could help you address any hang-ups before they happen. Your contractor can provide you with a realistic timeline of how long it will take to fabricate the stone slab and install it. They should also tell you how procuring permits will also impact the timeline.
Ready to Set Your Idea in Stone?
By having some key questions prepared for your countertop consultation, you will be able to get much more useful information out of the meeting. The answers to the questions above will not only tell you if the contractor is worthy but if your project is going to stay within your budget. At Marble Concepts, we believe in transparency and honesty. We are with you every step of the way, from choosing your stone slab to fabrication and installation. Tell us about your project by either filling out the contact form or giving us a call at 215-396-7393.
