Masonry is a specialized skill that takes expert knowledge to complete correctly. Not only do masons have to be comfortable working with different materials, but they must also be experts in customer service.
How do you find the right mason for the job? It all comes down to what type of project you need help with. Keep reading to learn more about masonry and how to hire the right professional.
Credibility and Service
Like any contractor, ensuring their credibility is crucial before allowing anyone to make repairs to your home. Before hiring a mason, browse their website for examples of their work, customer reviews and ratings. Ensure they are licensed to perform the work you need to complete.
Viewing work examples also helps determine if they specialize in certain projects. For example, some masonry contractors specialize in bricklaying or concrete repairs. Check out sites like Angie’s List to see more reviews on masonry contractors.
Project Details and Budget
Once you find the perfect contractor, communication is everything. Ensure you and your contractor are on the same page with all project details, materials, working schedule and payment. The last thing you want is to pay for something you did not ask for.
Ensure that you and your contractor agree 100% on your budget. Before starting a project, your contractor provides a price quote with the project details. Read the quote carefully and clarify any missing items as soon as you see them.
Project Timeline
Along with the project details and budget, knowing how long the project will take is vital. Ideally, research the average completion time for your project and discuss it with your contractor. Depending on your situation, you may have a deadline in mind. So it is best to have a timeline in case of potential delays or setbacks.
That may also be a good time to ask your contractor how many projects they are juggling at once, just in case you need the project completed quickly.
Check Your Foundation First
Always remember that most masonry projects are dependent on a good, strong foundation. Your masonry project is going to be heavy no matter what. It has to be long-lasting and durable. It all begins with the foundation.
If a foundation cracks, warps or falls apart, it will cause further damage and repairs, so never sell yourself short when it comes to having a sound foundation.
Make sure the ground for your project is solid and stable. Always make sure your base is under the freezing table for outdoor projects. Ensure the footings have maximum stability when being installed. We always want to inspect the foundation to make sure it is solid.
Warranties and Insurance
Most contractors offer guarantees for their workmanship and may even provide a written warranty for a certain number of years, depending on the project.
Before working with any contractor, ensure they have general liability insurance in case of any accidents during the project. Also, every masonry contractor should have workman’s compensation for their employees in the event someone is injured on your property.
Leave It to the Masonry Pros
Finding the right masonry contractor for your next home improvement project is time-consuming and stressful. When repairing or re-designing anything in your home, you need to find the best people for the job. Luckily, we check all the boxes, so you do not have to worry.
With nearly 70 years of experience, we have proudly offered our Ohio customers masonry services of all kinds. Besides smaller projects, we also handle the big jobs from chimney repair to waterproofing. Contact Ray Arnold Masonry for your masonry needs today.