Choosing a Granite Countertop Contractor

Published by: Elizabeth Gormley
Published on: 2010-01-10 15:26:13

If it feels daunting choosing the right style of granite countertop for your new kitchen or bathroom, it may seem just as tough choosing the right company for the job. There are many factors to consider, not the least of which is price. Granite is the most expensive counter material on the market. It is gorgeous, yet difficult to install because of its heaviness and unique physical properties. You want to put your money toward the great product as well as a skilled professional who will do the absolute best job, from start to finish.

First, ask potential contractors his or her opinion. It’s a sure sign of a seasoned professional when someone can give sound decorating advice as well as technical know-how. There are so many types of granite, some more popular than others, some more trendy, and some more traditional. A busy contractor is likely a good one, someone keeping up with the movements and shifts in the market. Ask specifics about the stone itself, its properties, hardness, strength, resistance to damage, etc. A supplier should be able to refer to the American Society for Testing and Materials for specific ratings. When conversing with a potential contractor, take note of his etiquette and demeanor. He should be treating you with utmost respect and care, as this is a sign of how he will treat your home and its new materials.

Be wary of suppliers who offer types of granite with unique names that are hard to find anywhere else. This happens because countries where the granite has originated give the stone their own name. Then, an importer gives that stone his own name. After that, retail stores, fabricators and installers change the name yet again. It’s a head-spinning process that happens when disreputable businesspeople want to create the illusion of an especially unique type of stone, when really it is standard. A sure sign of a polished, professional contractor is to recognize this and call it out.

Look at a contractor’s website. He should have an extensive portfolio of his work. He should have a lot of experience, and he should be proud of it. If you peruse the granite in person at a retail location, take note of the appearance of the business, and the samples themselves. Is the store neat, or disorganized? Are the samples scratched, cracked, or dirty? Or are they clean and presentable? This says a lot about an operation. How large is the company? How long has it been in business? Is it local, statewide, or does it operate on a national level? This will give you an idea of how successful it is. Always get several quotes before making a final decision.

With the proper homework and execution, you will have beautiful new granite countertops in a span of three to four weeks, from measurement to installation. Possibly too, you will discover a wonderful new contractor to tell your friends about.

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