By Shop4Contractors.com Staff
Carpeting can really spruce up a room; adding new dimensions and depth to an otherwise dull backdrop. Although a great decorating project, installing carpeting yourself can be strenuous (not to mention labor intensive). One way to ensure you have beautiful carpeting is to hire a contractor to install it for you. Installation is crucial to the success of your carpeting, here’s how to locate the best professional for the job.
1. Ask Around: Although many contractors advertise their services, many don’t. Ask friends or family members about referrals for contractors – specifically for carpet installation. Try to get references or phone numbers from two-three contractors – asking them if you can see pictures of their work or if you could visit jobs they are working on. Despite what a contractor will tell you about their work, you never know what a job will be like until you see samples of it. Some carpet installers have completed the CFI certification program. Ask if they have this certification and write down the certification number for your records.You can also locate a contractor on shop4contractors.com to find reputable agents in your area.
2. Ask About Insurance: When you are meeting with contractors, be sure to ask them about liability insurance. If an unfortunate event occurs and the contractor installs the carpet wrong, they should have an insurance policy to protect it. Also, have them show it to you -- you don’t want verbal OKs when dealing with interior projects.
3. Project Details: You know the basics: you want carpeting installed. But, beyond that your prospective contractor should provide you with details such as how they will take apart and dispose of old carpeting or flooring, how they will place the seams and their procedure for moving furniture and/or readjusting doors where the carpet will be installed. This is also a good time to discuss any concerns you may have about this home improvement project.
4. Warranty: When you and the contractor agree on the terms of the carpet installation, be sure that you receive a written warranty, including the terms of the job and the price of the assignment. Again, never accept a verbal OK and never allow a contractor to start without paperwork.
5. Before They Begin: Even though you are confident with your decision to hire your contractor, be sure to take an inventory of your home. This should include any pre-existing damage to walls or the floor where the carpet will be installed.
6. Other Notes: Since this is a contracted job, be sure to make note of the time your contractor arrives to the time they leave, as well as how long they took for lunch. Keeping track will hopefully avoid delays or those who slack on the job.