Questions to Ask a Bathroom Contractor
Get the most from your initial contractor meeting
A consultation is essential before getting started any major home
renovation project, including converting a bathtub/shower combo into a
walk-in shower. According to Bruce Berey, owner of Gainey Flooring
Solutions in Scottsdale, AZ, a good contractor will typically do the initial
consultation on premises. He says these are the topics you'll want to
discuss.
Here Are Some Of The Top Questions To Ask A Bathroom Contractor
1. How long have you been in business?
A long tenure doesn’t necessarily make a great contractor, but it’s an
indication of a successful business with satisfied customers. At the same
time, ask how many similar projects a contractor has completed.
2. Do you have a contractor’s license and insurance?
It may seem like a no-brainer, since proper licenses and worker's
compensation insurance are the bare minimum requirements when hiring
any worker undertaking even a small-scale remodel. But it’s a vital
question, so bring it up early in your conversation.
3. Do | have enough room for a walk-in shower?
If you're replacing a standard tub/shower combo, there should be plenty of
room. Berey says the footprint of a standard 5-foot bathtub allows for a
generous walk-in shower. It's even possible if you've got a smaller space.
The Americans with Disabilities Act says a modest 36” X 36” is the minimum
size for a transfer-type shower. Given those dimensions, Berey says he can
install a grab bar and eliminate the curb, but warns there’s not much room
for turning around.
4. Can you give me a line-by-line estimate?
Rather than ask for a cost estimate during your consultation, give the
contractor time to draw up a line-by-line estimate; that way you can study
it to ensure you understand the project’s scope, materials, hardware,
construction process, and billing schedule. If you're pressured to sign an
agreement during your consultation, it may be a sign that you are dealing
with a sales person, rather than a professional contractor.
5. What's your general timeline?
Don’t expect to get an exact start date at the time of consultation, but a
good contractor should be able to give you a general idea of when work can
begin and how long it will take, with variables such as supply chain issues
taken into consideration. Guarantees of one-day installation are probably
from companies offering low-grade cover-up remodels. A quality job, which
involves exposing the pipes (and correcting any existing water damage) and
cutting tile to fit your space, will take more time.
6. How should | prepare?
Ask about nitty-gritty preparations, including moving rugs, protecting floors
and furnishings, providing a dumpster, and reviewing community
guidelines, if you live in an HOA or condo. (Converting a tub/shower to a
walk-in shower doesn’t require permits, but your community may have
rules regarding working hours and parkings) Berey includes all such prep
work in the overall project, but make sure you and your contractor are on
the same page.
7. Can | see your recommendations?
This is one of the most important parts of the consultation. A contractor
with a healthy track record should be able to direct you to client reviews on
sites such as Yelp!, Houzz, and Angi. You can also ask for a list of references
you can contact directly.
8. Who will be doing the actual work?
Is the contractor using his or her own employees to do the job, or are they
subbing out the work? A contractor using their own employees has much
greater control over quality, safety, and scheduling.
9. Can | be at home during the construction?
As long as you have access to another bathroom, it shouldn't be a problem.
In conclusion, when undertaking a major home renovation like converting a bathtub/shower combo into a walk-in shower, a thorough consultation with a contractor is essential. During this discussion, you should cover key topics to ensure the success of your project:
Experience:Ask about the contractor's background and similar project experience.
Licenses and Insurance: Ensure the contractor has the required licenses and insurance.
Space:Confirm if your space allows for a walk-in shower.
Detailed Estimate:Request a line-by-line project estimate for clarity.
Timeline: Get a general idea of the project timeline, factoring in potential delays.
Preparations:Discuss the preparations needed, including moving furniture and adhering to community guidelines.
Recommendations and References: Seek reviews and references from previous clients.
Workforce: Understand if the contractor's employees will handle the work or if they subcontract.
Presence During Construction:Inquire if you can be present during construction, considering alternate bathroom access.
For remarkable walk-in shower transformations, visit Gainey Flooring Solutions at floorsdyouaz.com, and contact owner Bruce Berey at 602-989-8255 for a no-cost consultation. With these insights, you can confidently initiate your home renovation project.
