What to Ask a Contractor Before Your Custom Staircase Remodeling Project
A brand new custom staircase can do wonders for a home, after all it is a centerpiece of any house layout. Your staircase takes up so much visual space and provides a transition from one floor to the next. This makes it a custom staircase remodeling project a perfect place to start when refreshing your home’s design.
However, hiring a contractor for a custom staircase remodeling project can feel daunting—where to start? With so many contractors out there, it can be difficult choosing one you feel confident in. Knowing the right questions is the key to finding the right fit for you.
In 2020, 76% of American homeowners completed a home improvement project, illustrating how we prioritize that our homes reflect our lives, tastes, and personalities. But avoiding a stressful remodeling experience and getting swoon-worthy results takes some dedication.
Not every contractor can complete every custom staircase remodeling project, so we have compiled some questions that can help you find a match for your dream home.
First, The Basics
Of course there is basic information that any contractor should offer up to potential clients before taking on a project:
-Details on how they work safely, such as trainings, certifications, and a job site safety program.
-Information about their insurance.
-Active California contractor licensing.
Beyond the basics, there are other ways you can weed out any contractors who might not have the experience or honesty to give you a quality result. Read on to learn all about the questions you should ask your contractor before starting on a staircase remodeling project.
How Long Have They Been in the Remodeling Business?
This may seem like just a bit of small talk, but their answer is important. Contractors who have been in business for many years understand the importance of organization, quality over quantity, and communication.
Early on, contracting companies often deal with the pains of developing their own systems, quality assurance, and workflow. Experienced contractors know how to answer client questions, are open to communication, and are transparent about their policies.
Working with an experienced contractor can mean the difference between total satisfaction and utter disappointment. Gibin Remodeling has been in business for years, gaining the experience and technical expertise we need to give you the remodel you want.
Do They Offer Custom Staircases or Just Prefabricated Stairs?
Prefabricated staircases are built to fit many different homes and styles, but when you want a specific design in high-quality materials, you need customized millwork and stairs. A custom-designed staircase can bring one-of-a-kind beauty to a home, elevating its style and personality. Some homes or staircase design preferences may require a custom staircase since prefabricated stairs and parts won’t work safely. However, building custom staircases requires skill, training, and craftsmanship that not every contractor has.
The craftspeople at Gibin Remodeling have learned about custom millwork, carpentry, and staircase design through generations of family members. Coming from a family of artisans, we bring an artistic eye to each project.
What Styles of Custom Stairs Do They Create?
If you have a specific style of custom staircase in mind, it is essential that you choose a contractor who can bring your dream to life. Not all contractors have experience building all styles of staircases, and some styles require extensive skill for safety, comfort, and aesthetics.
Not sure what kind of staircase appeals to your style? Take our Design Style Quiz specially made to help our clients make the best choices for their homes. We have experience with a diverse range of styles, materials, and customizations so we can exceed your custom staircase expectations.
Do They Have Recent Photos of Their Work?
Experienced contractors will set up a time (convenient to their clients’ schedules and permissions) for a professional photographer to take photos of their completed work. Especially for custom staircases, where each project may be a completely unique design, these photos can give potential clients insight into what the contractor can do.
Some contractors show photos of older projects completed with a different workforce. Or they may offer photos that are strictly examples of what they offer. Don’t accept anything less than timely photos of their real work.
See Our Staircase Gallery Here
What Can You Expect Before, During, and After Your Staircase Remodeling Project?
Seasoned contractors will welcome this question and be ready with a transparent plan for your custom staircase. From communicating the plans, to how your home will be impacted during construction, to cleaning up afterward, you deserve to know how your contractor will work.
At Gibin, we pride ourselves on our thorough and thoughtful process. We communicate every step, ensuring we execute your project perfectly. We strive to make the construction process simple and painless for each client. We clean up after our service and provide all essential information so you can relax and celebrate your new home.
Read More About Our Process Here
What Is the Timeline for Your Staircase Remodeling Project?
One of the most stressful aspects of home construction can be worrying about the unknowns: How long will the project take? How long will the contractor’s team be working on our home? At Gibin, we work to reduce this stress with clear communication and transparency.
We give every client a comprehensive timeline before we begin work on the project. This helps everyone see exactly when each phase of work will be completed. We believe honesty and quality work are the guiding principles to happy clients.
Custom Staircase Remodeling You Can Trust
Choosing a contractor for your custom staircase remodeling project is a big decision that can impact your home for decades to come. Quality staircases require knowledge and skill in design, safety, and workmanship—nothing you want to sacrifice in a remodeling project. Knowing the right questions to ask is a good start, but knowing you deserve nothing less than the best service is the key.
We believe in transparent contact, quality technique, and thoughtful work so you can enjoy your home. We do this with our signature bespoke designs and honest communication. Contact us for a consultation so we can show you the Gibin family difference.