Although the handy homeowner may be capable of replacing a faucet or changing shower hardware, full bathroom remodeling projects require the skill of a professional bathroom contractor. Finding the right contractor is often a project in itself.
1. Brainstorm. Before you start the hunt for a contractor, you should have some idea of what you want your bathroom remodel to look like. Set up a board on Pinterest and start pinning pictures of bathroom inspiration. Tear out pages from magazines and start a binder of your ideas. This will help give your future contractor an idea of your taste and style.
2. Ask Around. Is there a friend or family member who has a bathroom you envy? Find out who did their remodel. Ask your neighbors and coworkers for recommendations as well. Ask what they thought of the experience, how the contractor addressed problems, if work was completed on time and on budget, etc.
3. Do Your Research. Once you've compiled a list of potential contractors, start doing research. Determine if each contractor is fully licensed and insured in both your state and local municipality. Also look for designations from professional associations, like the National Kitchen and Bath Association.
4. Schedule In-Home Estimates. Narrow it down to three contractors and schedule free in-home estimates. Browse the portfolio of their work, and treat these consultations like an interview: find out if the contractor offers a guarantee on their workmanship; ask who will be on site and how the work will be supervised; request a written, itemized estimate and timeline for completion; inquire about the deposit and payment schedule.
5. Check References. Calling former clients will give you more insight on the contractor. Ensure at least one of the references has had work done recently, as contractors may have hired new teams. You want the reference to be reflective of the current company. Sometimes a phone call to a previous client may not tell you enough. If you can, request to visit a current worksite and see for yourself if the team is courteous and respectful of the homeowner's property.
6. Compare Contractors. With written estimates in hand and references in mind, compare the bids and choose a contractor that you feel comfortable inviting into your home.
As a general rule, a remodeling quote will consist of 40% materials, 40% labor and overhead, and 20% profit for the contractor. Always shop around for the best price and value - never settle for a sub-par contractor! Give your bathroom an added touch of elegance with The Bath Outlet’s selection of luxury bathroom accessories, fixtures, and hardware.
1. Brainstorm. Before you start the hunt for a contractor, you should have some idea of what you want your bathroom remodel to look like. Set up a board on Pinterest and start pinning pictures of bathroom inspiration. Tear out pages from magazines and start a binder of your ideas. This will help give your future contractor an idea of your taste and style.
2. Ask Around. Is there a friend or family member who has a bathroom you envy? Find out who did their remodel. Ask your neighbors and coworkers for recommendations as well. Ask what they thought of the experience, how the contractor addressed problems, if work was completed on time and on budget, etc.
3. Do Your Research. Once you've compiled a list of potential contractors, start doing research. Determine if each contractor is fully licensed and insured in both your state and local municipality. Also look for designations from professional associations, like the National Kitchen and Bath Association.
4. Schedule In-Home Estimates. Narrow it down to three contractors and schedule free in-home estimates. Browse the portfolio of their work, and treat these consultations like an interview: find out if the contractor offers a guarantee on their workmanship; ask who will be on site and how the work will be supervised; request a written, itemized estimate and timeline for completion; inquire about the deposit and payment schedule.
5. Check References. Calling former clients will give you more insight on the contractor. Ensure at least one of the references has had work done recently, as contractors may have hired new teams. You want the reference to be reflective of the current company. Sometimes a phone call to a previous client may not tell you enough. If you can, request to visit a current worksite and see for yourself if the team is courteous and respectful of the homeowner's property.
6. Compare Contractors. With written estimates in hand and references in mind, compare the bids and choose a contractor that you feel comfortable inviting into your home.
As a general rule, a remodeling quote will consist of 40% materials, 40% labor and overhead, and 20% profit for the contractor. Always shop around for the best price and value - never settle for a sub-par contractor! Give your bathroom an added touch of elegance with The Bath Outlet’s selection of luxury bathroom accessories, fixtures, and hardware.
