If you need new gutters or a gutter replacement, you probably are trying to find the best gutter company available. If you search online, you will see a lot of gutter contractors in Vancouver and the lower mainland offering gutter installation and maintenance services. The list of gutter companies can be overwhelming. So, how do you know which one to hire? When choosing the right contractor here are key factors to consider.
Expertise and Experience
Ask the gutter contractor how long the company’s been in business. When installing new gutters, replacing damaged sections, or getting the gutters cleaned every season, the final results will be more satisfying if you’re working with an experienced contractor. A professional technician has the expertise and knowledge in handling different gutter materials, using the appropriate products for your home’s exterior, and employing the right techniques.
Insurance and Licensing
Check that the contractor you’re interested in hiring is both insured and licensed. Insurance, including liability insurance and worker’s compensation, protects you from being liable for any damages and accidents that occur during the time the contractor and gutter technicians are on your property completing the project.
When technicians and gutter contractors are licensed, they are trained to meet industry standards and follow regulations and proper procedures.
Ask for References
Ask the gutter contractor for a list of references. These would be people the contractor has done projects for and have their permission to use them as a reference. Do contact them – whether it’s by phone, in-person, or through email, hearing their experiences with that company can provide valuable insight into how they do business and if they are reliable and trustworthy.
If it’s not the company’s policy to provide a list of references, go online and search for testimonials and reviews. While they are not foolproof, reviews on Google, Yelp, and the Better Business Bureau will give you some idea of the gutter contractor’s overall reputation and dependability.
Quality Products
Gutter companies typically offer installation or replacement packages. Check to see if all the components that are included such as the gutters, downspouts, and hardware, are made from quality materials. You want your gutter system or gutter replacement to look good and last a long time.
A “No Surprises” Estimate
The estimate you receive from each company should provide a clear, transparent breakdown of all costs – materials, labour, and any additional services or expenses. It should also outline the project scope, timeline, and payment schedule. A transparent estimate is important for both parties – if you don’t understand how a cost has been calculated or why something has not been included, ask for clarification.
Affordability
Professional contractors suggest you get at least three estimates for the project you want done. Multiple quotes will give you the big picture of what is available and how much it will cost. When one estimate is significantly lower than another, ask questions – the lower estimate might be an indication that the company is using cheaper materials or hiring non-licensed technicians.
Gutter companies don’t offer the same services at the same prices. For each quote, itemize what is included and then compare before making a selection. Look for difference that can make the estimate higher but more is being offered:
- Identifiable brands – quality materials
- Material costs
- Labour costs
- Number of downspouts
- Extras such as leaf-guards or splash blocks
- What else is covered – are there warranties, guarantees, debris removal
- Customer service – will there be follow-up visits after the projects has been completed.
Based on the information you have gathered from examining the estimates, select a reasonably-priced company that fits your budget.
