Selecting a reputable Granite Counter top Fabricator in your local area might not be too difficult. With today’s technology you can have access to any information with just a few clicks of a mouse. The same is true when you’re shopping online for your granite or marble countertops. You can compare prices, colors and even get precise quotes online. Certain websites will allow to even place your order online, at those sites you are the one responsible for all the final measurements and the fine print which is never read by many homeowners tells you that they have no liability over the information provided when placing order. The tops are shipped direct to you and you are responsible for their installation. The material used is usually pre-cut 2cm product, imported from China. This process is what I call “counter tops express”, of course the final installed result will vary depending on each homeowner’s skills. Having your custom counter tops made by a professional local granite fabricator is an overall completely different experience. If this is the route you decide to travel on, here are a few tips you should consider after your final online experience is over. Just like any other savvy shopper , do you homework online, compare prices, once you narrow it down to a few local contractors, here is what you should consider before closing your deal.
1. Ask family, friends and neighbors for referrals and call local Stone suppliers for recommendations.
2. Contact the ones you have identified as potential contractors and schedule a in home appointment for estimate. Most will offer this service for free, but confirm in advance.
3. During you Estimate appointment describe what you envision for your counter tops, and ask all necessary questions.
4. Evaluate your quotes, request references, and check them.
5. Request proof of liability and workers’ compensation insurance.
6.Select the contractor you believe is skilled and trustworthy, and with whom you feel more comfortable with. Make sure everything you and your contractor agree to is included in your contract. Don’t sign anything until you understand and agree with all the terms.
7. Plan your project carefully, then keep the lines of communication open with your contractor throughout the project. Keep a job file of all important documentation.
8. Ask your contractor to estimate a time frame for the job and plan accordingly.
Always keep in mind that your local fabricator will be that company that for years to come will be able to serve you with all your future natural stone needs. So, building a good relationship with your local granite fabricator will certainly serve you in the long run; at least this has been the case for us. After been in business for almost eight years now, in the same area we have had the pleasure to serve in numerous homeowners throughout the years that repeatedly come back to us for new projects.
- Val Rocha has been in the granite countertops fabrication for over ten years, helping homeowners, designers, contractors and high end builders add long lasting beauty and elegance to their projects by choosing Natural Stone.
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Beautiful site – and helpful article for buying quality granite.
Super advice, Val. I’m not in the market for granite at the moment, but if I ever am, I’ll know what to do.
Val, those are great tips. Thanks.
Thanks Val,
When it’s time for my kitchen re-do I now know a real exert. Thanks for the continuing great advice on selecting a beautiful countertop.
Val, What a lovely website! Great article that will help when I get to that point in my home.
Nice site and great information Val.
Good information, Val — thanks for sharing. Your website looks great!
Great tip – I also like to buy local – not just because my customer service is so much better, but also because I like to buy USA vendors to help support our economy in these times.
Val, Great tips. Thanks.