Before you commit to working with a screen enclosure contractor, you’ll want to schedule an in-home meeting. The purpose of the meeting is for the contractor to measure your space and offer suggestions as to types of screen and possibly roof structures. However, this is a great time to ask those difficult questions to find out what sets your screen enclosure contractor apart from the others in the New Smyrna Beach and surrounding areas.
During the meeting, there are a few questions you should ask the screen enclosure contractor before agreeing to work together. The answers to these questions will help you evaluate the quality of the contractor, how they measure up to the competition and ensure that you’ll be happy with your screened patio enclosure.
1. What is the History of Your Screen Enclosure Contractor?
Learning about the history of your patio contractor will help you determine if you’ve picked a team worth your investment. Established companies with years of experience have withstood the test of time and are more likely to follow best practices to ensure that your project will be completed to your satisfaction within your established time frame and budget.
2. What is the Typical Payment Schedule?
Before signing any paperwork, it’s important to understand how the company structures the payment schedule for your screen porch enclosure. Many screen enclosure companies schedule payments based on completed milestones, but you’ll want to discuss this fully with any prospective company to avoid any surprises. No one likes surprises unless it involves cake.
3. May I See Previous Work Similar to My Project?
Past performance is no guarantee of future results, but seeing examples of past projects will give you a firm understanding of the quality of a company’s work. Any reputable company will be happy to show off past examples of their work so that you can better envision the finished project at your own home. You can also ask for references for an unbiased review of the company’s workmanship and best practices. Their website is a good place to start. Most screen enclosure companies love putting photos of their finished work online. Ask if you can talk to any customers in your area.
4. What Guarantees Do You Offer on Your Work?
Screen enclosures are made from durable and long-lasting components, but sometimes manufacturing defects can cause an enclosure to age or even fail prematurely. A reputable screen enclosure contractor will include guarantees on both the materials and the workmanship of your completed enclosure. Only hire a contractor who isn’t afraid to stand behind their work with a guarantee to protect your investment.
5. What is the Projected Timeline?
Discussing the timeline for your project is an important part of the consultation process. Any number of factors can affect the final timeline, including the contractor’s current workload. Other factors can also impact your timeline, such as permitting for the project or weather conditions. Depending on the time of year, weather conditions may be a huge factor in the timeline. Discussing your timeline requirements can help you decide which enclosure company to hire.
BONUS: Questions Your Contactor May Ask You
During the consultation, your screen enclosure contractor will have a few questions for you as well. Your enclosure style preferences are likely to be a topic of conversation, and most contractors will also ask about why you want an enclosure for your home. They’ll also want to physically inspect the location of the screen porch enclosure so that they can take measurements and evaluate the suitability of the site.
Additional Reading: Types of Phifer Screens for Your Pool or Patio Enclosure
A quality screen enclosure will last for 10 to 20 years depending on types of materials you choose as well as the screen enclosure contractor. It’s important to be thorough in your questioning when hiring the best screen enclosure contractor for your project.
Starting your relationship with a detailed in-home meeting is one of the best ways to ensure that you hire the right screen enclosure contractor. At Dulando Screen & Awning, we’ve been in business for almost 50 years and have built screened patio enclosures for thousands of homeowners. Contact us today at 407-862-6060 to schedule your in-home consultation with one of our design consultants.