Family Handyman claims that marble countertops will last an average of 20 years, but you’ll only get between 10 and 20 years from laminate worktops. While quality materials are certainly a factor, choosing the right contractor will also ensure you are able to enjoy your new worktops for longer. With that in mind, how do you choose the right countertop company? Here’s a checklist that will help you make the right decision.
Choose an Established Company
When it comes to kitchen counter installation, you may think there is little difference from one type to the next. But ask anyone who has ever installed countertops and they will tell you that is definitely not the case. Accordingly, whether you choose a well-established contractor rather than a startup matters. Look for someone who has experience with a variety of materials as well as a significant amount of time in the trade.
One way to determine how established (and reputable) a company is would be to read its reviews. In fact, reviews can give you clues about the level of customer service you’re likely to benefit from.
Check Out Their Inventory
Kitchen work surfaces come in a variety of materials these days. There is dolomite, limestone, soapstone, and more along with the ever-popular marble, quartz, and granite. And each of these choices comes with its own advantages and disadvantages.
A quality contractor will have a good selection of countertop materials available for you to look at and can tell you the advantages and disadvantages of each. That way, you can be sure you are making the right choice. Keep looking if a company has a limited selection or basic knowledge base.
Ask About the Process
Great workmanship and exceptional service won’t mean much unless you are also happy with the installation. As such, you should ask some questions to learn how comfortable you might be with the process. Some good ones include:
- How long will installation take?
- Will I be able to use my new counter immediately? Why or why not?
- Can you talk me through the installation process step by step?
- Will you haul off my old countertop and/or debris?
After walking you through the process, your contractor should also be able to answer questions about cleaning, sealing, or maintaining your new surface. So be sure you are also satisfied with how that person answers those queries.
Choose Someone Who Is Responsive
You may have other questions in addition to those listed above. Or you may think of new ones after your initial consultation. If so, note how long it takes the contractor to get back to you. Stay away from companies that take forever to answer their emails or never seem to have anyone available to answer the phone.
Businesses that care about their customers will provide good communication regardless of how swamped they are. And they won’t stop talking to you just because the job is finished. Think about it-if a contractor won’t connect with you before doing the work, how likely are you to get a response afterwards in the event something goes wrong?
We Check All the Boxes
Here at Aphrodite Marble & Granite, we possess the knowledge, inventory, and experience that’s needed to provide you with quality kitchen counters. Furthermore, we also carry a wide selection of inventory available in our Forked River, NJ showroom. We’ll work with you to make your project a success and invite you to contact us today to schedule a consultation.
