A gutter contractor is a gutter contractor, right? Well, not exactly. Whether you are a property manager or a homeowner, it is important to choose your gutter installer carefully. Gutters are the first line of defense your home has against basement flooding and foundation degradation, so they aren’t an after-thought, they are a necessity. If gutters are not installed properly, water can do a whole lot of damage to your home, which is why taking the time to find a reputable gutter contractor is so critical.
Do the Research
Your home is one of your greatest investments, and since gutters are so important to protect it, it is important to take the time to find a quality gutter service. It isn’t enough to just google gutter contractors near me, you have to take the time to do the research. Online reviews are an excellent way to gauge customer satisfaction, as long as you know who is writing the reviews. But go one step further to check with agencies like the Better Business Bureau and other home service finders like Angie’s List to really know what a company is like.
Get it in Writing
Don’t ever hire someone based on word of mouth estimates. Before you have any work done on your home, it is important to have your estimate in writing without any hidden fees or costs. Request that a detailed written quote be signed by both parties so that you know exactly what work will be done and the total cost. Also, never pay in full before work is completed. If a gutter contractor is asking for payment in full instead of a deposit, then that is a red flag that you should continue your search.
Trust but Verify
Gutter contractors need to have insurance and licensing to ensure not just that they are covered, but that you, as the homeowner, are as well. Before any work begins, make sure to see a copy of the contractor's license and insurance verification forms. Building gutters can be very dangerous, and if something should happen, you want to make sure that your contractor and their employees are covered so that it doesn’t befall you.
Experience Matters!
Being a gutter contractor takes both skill and knowledge, which sometimes can’t be taught in a classroom. Hire a gutter professional who has real-life experience. You might also want to take the time to view other jobs to see their work. Gutters that aren’t installed correctly can lead to significant damage to the exterior of your home, and potentially, its integrity. So, find a professional who has a proven track record and knows the industry well.
Choosing the right gutter contractor is important to protect one of your greatest investments. So although the price is going to be a concern, it should not be the only factor in your decision.
At Gutter Boyz, we have the training, the experience, and the reputation to build gutters that will last for decades to come. Contact us today for a free evaluation of your gutter needs.