From time to time, most homeowners find themselves in a tough spot. They need a contractor for a specialty service. There are very few to choose from. Should you take the closest one? The one with the best story? Prettiest vehicle or smile? No way.
You need a contractor who is trustworthy, experienced, certified by a quality supplier, strong reputation, who is homeowner oriented.
DIXIE
You need to be careful when committing are of the most basic part of your home, your foundation, to someone you don't know. The following ideas will help you choose the best contractor for you:
Experience:
How long has he or she been installing foundation repair piers? With more experience comes better judgment, creativity with the unexpected, a more thorough understanding of soil environment, and sensitivity to soil and structure reactions, movement, and stability.
Estimate:
Be sure the foundation repair contractor offers a free estimate without obligation. Don't be fooled by high-pressure sales techniques. If the estimator does not offer a written estimate that details the plans, terms, and conditions of the repair, do not hire that contractor!
References:
Satisfied customers are a good source, but "cherry picking" two or three customers can be helpful but also misleading. How about a couple structural/geotechnical engineers? What do they know about the contractor's reputation? You can also call the Better Business Bureau. A couple of complaints may or may not be alarming. If there are complaints on record, check the resolution of the situation. And finally, you can call the pier supplier: is the contractor in good standing?
Product:
Another very important issue is the potential contractor's product. There are a number of companies that produce piers, fully tested by engineers who can back up their claims. Some contractors make their own without any testing. Others call a local fabricator; tell him what they need ASAP. There is a huge risk inherent with undocumented piers.
Clearly a contractor cannot be certified by his supplier if he is his own supplier. Certification indicates training, continuing education, and meeting the suppliers' requirements and processes for design and installation of pier systems. This is important to you.
Specialization:
Is the contractor a full-time installer of piers or is it a part-time segment of his "main" business? A contractor fully immersed in the operation of piers brings you a lot more confidence in his skill and care for your home and property.
How to Choose the Right Foundation Contractor
Need help with foundation repair MI or foundation repair Detroit? Kent, the 32nd largest concrete contractor in the U.S., is recognized by the State of Michigan as qualified to teach continuing education for building inspectors regarding settled concrete. Kent is fully trained, tested, and certified by MacLean Dixie of Birmingham, Alabama who offers the ONLY multi pier AC 358 certification by The I C C. which is a process of intense, Independent testing of piers. MacLean Dixie has reached the highest level of credibility, unmatched in the world of foundation piers.
You can learn more on our site, from our blog, or schedule a free estimate by calling (616) 214-3262.
DIXIE
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