When you’re investing in new construction or a remodel on any property, the details matter. Even small elements like drywall can have a big impact on the appearance, function, and resale value of your home. As a result, it’s important to partner with drywall contractors that you can trust to get the job done right. That said, not all drywall companies are created equal. Your options range from general contractors that offer a one-stop shop for all your remodeling needs to smaller specialist firms that focus on specific services like drywall installation or acoustic ceilings. Depending on your unique needs and budget, you may want to partner with multiple contractors for different projects. The following questions will help you determine if a potential contractor is right for you:

What Does Your Company Offer?

The first step towards choosing a contractor is to understand what your options are. Some key questions to ask include: What services does your company provide? How much experience does your company have in the particular service you need? Are any staff members licensed and/or accredited for the services offered? What is the company’s commitment to customer satisfaction? What are the company’s cancellation/dispute resolution policies? You should also ask about any other companies your contractor partners with. This can be an indication that your contractor is reputable and trusting others for parts of the job adds to their credibility.

How Much Will the Drywall Installation Service Cost?

Before you sign on the dotted line, you should know the basics of the installation cost. While factors like the size and location of the job, experience of the crew, and cost of materials can impact the final price, you can use this figure as a starting point when discussing your project with potential contractors. In addition to hourly charges, make sure to clarify how your contractor will bill you for materials. Some companies charge a per-square-foot fee while others have a set rate for materials. These rates can vary greatly depending on the quality of materials used. The good news is that you have the ability to shop around for the best deal. Your contractor is required by law to provide you with a written estimate for the work. Take the time to review each line item and question any items you don’t understand thoroughly.

Are There Any Rebuilding or Repair Requirements Before Drywall?

Not all drywall installation jobs are created equal. Your contractor may need to replace portions of the wall or ceiling that have been damaged or compromised by water or termites. The extent of these repairs can vary greatly, and some contractors offer a one-stop solution for all your remodeling needs. A company that specializes in drywall, wallboards, or paneling installation doesn’t necessarily have experience with other construction elements, like electrical wiring. As a result, they may recommend that you hire a different contractor for these tasks. If any repairs are required, make sure to clarify with your contractor what work they will do and what work they expect you to do. This can help avoid any misunderstandings or miscommunications down the road.

Will Your Company Be Involved in Other Construction Processes?

Even on smaller jobs, many drywall contractors offer their customers a “one-stop shop” solution by handling electrical, plumbing, and other important systems. This can be beneficial for homeowners who may not have the time or expertise needed to tackle these systems on their own. On the other hand, some contractors may use this as an opportunity to cut corners or save money by hiring substandard contractors or hiring inexperienced workers. If you decide to hire one contractor for all your remodeling needs, make sure to clarify exactly what work they will do and what work they expect you to do. This can help avoid any misunderstandings or miscommunications down the road.

How Much Experience Does Your Company Have Installing Drywall?

While drywall is a fairly basic construction element, there are tricks of the trade that can help your contractor get the job done as quickly and efficiently as possible. An experienced contractor can save you time and money by using the most efficient tools and techniques. When hiring a contractor, it’s important to ask about the experience level of the crew. This is particularly important for larger jobs where the company is installing drywall in several rooms or in the entire home. While it’s common for drywall contractors to hire subcontractors, it’s important to ask about any sub-crews. This is particularly important if you have any special requests or requirements.

What Is the Quality of the Materials You Use?

The quality of the materials that your contractor uses can have a significant effect on the long-term durability and appearance of the drywall. In fact, some contractors use so-called “builder-grade” materials that can significantly reduce the resale value of your home. If possible, ask to see samples of the materials that your contractor plans to use. This can help you to make an informed decision about the contractor you choose for the job. It’s also a good idea to know if your contractor is licensed to use specific materials like asbestos-free drywall or if they have any special certifications. These credentials can indicate that your contractor is committed to high-quality work.

Can You Provide References From Previous Customers?

Nothing speaks more about a contractor than the experience of previous customers. While you can ask the contractor for references, nothing is more telling than hearing from someone who has actually worked with the contractor. If possible, try to get at least three references that are relevant to your specific project. It’s best to speak with previous customers who live nearby because they can be helpful in identifying potential issues before they become a problem. If possible, try to speak with a mix of customers who used the contractor for different aspects of the project. This can help you to compare apples to apples and get the most accurate view of the contractor’s work quality.

Will There Be any Noise or Shadowing During My Remodel?

All contractors are required to complete a noise-mitigation checklist before beginning work. This includes an assessment of the noise level inside the home and recommendations for how to reduce the level of noise during the project. Some contractors may also offer noise-reduction solutions, such as constructing noise walls, installing sound-proof drywall, or using sound-blocking techniques like balanced ventilation. While most contractors follow the rules, take a moment to clarify with the contractor about any noise-reduction solutions that they recommend. If the contractor does not have any solutions in mind, this can be an indication of poor planning and a contractor that may not be a good fit for your project.

Summing Up

Choosing the right contractors for your remodel can be a daunting task that requires some legwork. By asking these questions, you can ensure that you select a contractor who is trustworthy, experienced, and committed to high-quality work. While your contractor is there to help you, it’s also important to remember that you are there to help them. You are responsible for managing the project, communicating clearly with all contractors, and making sure that the work is done on time and on budget. With the right approach, you can ensure that your remodel is a success.

Contact RGZ Cambridge today for all your drywall needs: We are industry leaders in Commercial and Residential projects. Call us today: 613-695-5544 or reach us via this page.