Installing new countertops can completely transform the look and feel of your kitchen. With so many options like granite, marble, quartz, and more, you’ll want an experienced fabricator to help bring your vision to life. Here’s a guide on how to choose the best countertop pro for the job.
Do Your Research Start by asking friends, family, neighbors or realtors for referrals. Look at reviews on Google, Facebook, and other social media sites. Pay attention to experience, communication, timeliness and overall client satisfaction. You want someone familiar with installing all types of natural stone and engineered countertops.
Interview Fabricators Once you have a few potential fabricators in mind, give them a call or visit them online. Be prepared with measurements and photos of your space. Ask questions like:
- How long have you been in business? Look for 5+ years of experience.
- Are you licensed and insured? Be sure they carry liability insurance.
- What training and certifications do you have? Look for solid training.
- Have you done many kitchens like mine? Choose someone familiar with your material and layout.<
- Can I see examples of your work? Ask for photos of past installations.
- Who will be involved in the install? Get names of the installers.
- When can you begin? Be sure their schedule aligns with yours.
- When can you begin? Be sure their schedule aligns with yours.
Get Estimates
Get an In-Home Estimate Shortlist 2-3 fabricators based on your interviews and have them come measure your kitchen. Point out any problem areas and discuss your planned materials, edges, backsplashes, sinks, etc. A true professional will take ample time measuring, address all your questions, provide design recommendations, and explain the whole process from templating to installation. Pay attention to how knowledgeable they seem about the latest products and trends.
Compare Bids
- Don’t make your decision based on price alone.
- Compare the full scope of services in each bid.
- Look for detailed information on: Materials, edges, thickness, and other options
- Demolition and disposal of old countertops
- Any plumbing or electrical work needed
- Removal and replacement of sinks or cooktops
- Backsplashes, accent strips or specialty pieces
- Lifetime warranty on materials and labor
Note: A higher bid could reflect more experience, better materials, a fuller service, or superior fabrication techniques. Be wary of quotes that seem too good to be true. Verify References Check reviews and call 2-3 references to ask:
- Did they finish on time and on budget?
- How was the quality of their work?
- How did they handle any problems that arose?
- Would you hire them again?
Note: Positive feedback is a great sign. Any hesitation is worth exploring further. Trust Your Gut You’ll be working closely with your fabricator throughout the process so it’s essential to have good rapport. Make sure you feel comfortable with their staff and confident in their recommendations. If anything gives you pause, keep looking.
Inspect the Fabrication Facility Some fabricators will invite you to tour their fabrication facility to view slabs firsthand. This offers a wealth of insights before finalizing your decision. You can check out their operations, see how meticulous they are with cuts and polishes, and preview slabs. If a facility tour isn’t possible, ask for extensive photos of their fabrication process. Assess the precision of their cutting, edging, and polishing.
Visit the ESF selection center online: https://www.theasys.io/viewer/rqYy4U3mLw1oh6JAaOwNA41TDuNuDW/
Note: Get it in Writing. Always get your final agreement in writing before work begins. The contract should spell out specific details like:
- Dates for templating, fabrication and installation
- The stone type, color, finish, thickness, edge profile and other selections
- Itemized costs for materials, labor and any extras
- Removal and disposal of old countertops
- Timeframe and process for alterations
Read the fine print carefully to understand what is and isn’t covered. Never pay 100% upfront. Stick to a deposit of 30-50% at most before work begins.With careful research and vetting, you can find the perfect partner to create your dream countertops. Trust your instincts, invest in quality, and enjoy a smooth installation process. Reach out today for a free consultation!
