This post is a continuation of A Buying Guide For Stonework: Choosing Your Stone Do Your Homework. So how do you choose a residential masonry contractor? As with most home projects, it's well worth the effort to do a some research. (Oh sure, we've learned the hard way too. Don't ask about the bathtub debacle.) Look for an experienced stonemason with great references, a solid reputation and one who offers a guarantee. Ask to see what they're currently working on. Look at their past masonry projects on-site.  Ask lots of questions pertaining to how they work. If your work will be outdoors, find out if heavy equipment will be used. Will existing trees and plantings be protected? We know a woman whose favorite specimen tree was killed when her contractor used a Bobcat to dig a small patio space. Yes, it was quicker and maybe less expensive, but at an unhappy cost.Ask Away. Will the jobsite, your treasured yard, be completely cleaned up after the work is finished? If your work is planned for indoors, can dust be contained and kept to a minimum? Will the area be off-limits to the rest of the house? This may be important to people with small children or health concerns. Ask specific questions about how your project will be built. How will the site be prepared? What kind of foundation or footing will your stonework have? For patios, it's important to know how drainage will be handled. For more information on patio construction, read Keys To A Quality Stone Patio. Here are a few general questions to ask your contractor. How will your pets be accommodated? No, they won't be put up in a pet spa. But you may need to have a backyard gate closed at all times to contain a rowdy dog. Will workers be mindful of that as they go in and out all day long? And finally, who will perform the work? Will your stonework be done by the same stonemasons who did the work in the photos on the website or brochure? Count On Quality. Remember that quality stonework takes longer but comes with peace-of-mind. Think of it as time well spent on a product of superior craftsmanship and value. Masonry work that is done properly is a significant investment in your home, lasts a lifetime, requires little if any maintenance, and should not need repairs. If you want even more detail, read How To Recognize Quality Stonework. If you can't imagine asking so many questions of a potential contractor or builder, read this North Carolina home buyer horror story. You may change your mind. As always, we welcome your comments and questions below. Like us on Facebook © European Stone Masonry LLC |
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