Seven Good Questions to Ask Your Interlocking Contractor
When you're beginning the process of getting a new interlocking project done, it can be rather overwhelming. There is a lot of information that you'll need to get a handle on, and multiple things to pay attention to and have under control. In an ideal world, you would find an interlocking contractor that you can trust 100%, and life would be a lot easier. However, things aren't usually that simple, and if you're a smart consumer you would pay attention to the process even if you think your interlocking contractor can be relied upon.
In order to help you pick out good interlocking contractors, Land-Con Ltd. has put together a list of questions that you should ask. It is always better to ask more questions than less; get as much information as you need, and be wary of any contractor that is reticent with any sort of information. Good interlocking contractors should be open to explaining things, to providing referrals, and to telling you what is what throughout the process. Of course, you will need to do your own research as well, so you'll have some basic knowledge to work with.
Seven Essential Questions
- How much experience do you have? This question may be very direct, but it is absolutely necessary. Good interlocking contractors shouldn't take offence at this question, rather, they should be happy to tell you more about their years of experience in the business, and the types of projects they've completed. Too many people fall victim to inexperienced contractors who may have good intentions, but who simply don't know enough about what they are doing.
- How do you plan to prepare the base? One thing you should never underestimate is the importance of the base in the construction of an interlocking surface. It constitutes a large section of the labour and the cost the last thing you want interlocking contractors to be skimping on is the base quality. Some contractors may lay claim to installations that follow strict industry standards, utilizing the proper materials, depth, and so on; however, they may then take shortcuts if you aren't paying attention to their work.
- Do you offer a warranty on your work? The answer to this question should of course be yes. How long does their warranty last? If the project is only carries a warranty of one year, the standard of work that the contractor produces might not be very high. If you don't pay proper attention during the base construction, and your contractor decides to take some shortcuts, the surface may start to deteriorate after just a year or two. It is worth asking if an extended warranty is available.
- What materials do you use for edge restraints? With regard to interlocking pavements, edge restraints are not just an option they are absolutely essential. Without edge restraints, the pavers on the edge of your pavement or walkway will begin to loosen and pull away. Usually, interlocking contractors will utilize long aluminium or plastic strips to construct the necessary restraints.
- What will I be expected to pay upfront? A deposit of ten to twenty percent is normal. Never pay interlocking contractors more than that upfront! The deposit is required only to secure your project with the given contractor; it's a sign of commitment on your part. Don't part with more money than that and be surprised when your contractor conveniently disappears soon after.
- Can you give me a list of the installation specifications? This step is important for you; you can use it to double check if the specifications meet industry standards. Further, you can use it to keep track of your contractor's work during the first phases of the project.
- Can I get an itemized quote and contract? Be sure that the itemized list of costs and installation specifications are all set in writing. The list of materials used, hours of labour, and timeline for the project should also be included. The more information is in the contract, the better.
If the contractor is able to answer all these questions to your satisfaction, then you are off to a good start. Any hesitancy or beating around the bush should be a warning sign and cause for concern!
Interlocking Contractors in Toronto
If you want quality interlocking work from experienced professionals, come to Land-Con Ltd. We have been serving the communities of the GTA for twenty-five years, and will be happy to serve you too.
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