Professional VS. DIY

Why choose a professional?

Here are a few high notes associated with hiring a professional.

1. They know what they are doing and can get the job done.
2. Will work while you are at work, not weekends and nights.
3. They often offer their own warranty on top of a manufactures warranty.
4. They can provide the proper materials for your project with little shopping for you to do.
5. Professionals should be knowledgeable in industry standards and techniques and be an expert.  

Do-It-Youself

1. You can often save money on materials and do the labor yourself.
2. You can take your time working nights and weekends.  
3. No one you don’t know is in your home.
4. You can do your own research for the proper materials and warranty.
5. You will be responsible for fixing any issues or redoing mistakes made in your installation.

You can do your own reaserch on industry standards a www.tile-assn.com and find a qualified installer.  

 

Busting the DIY Myth!

DIY shows and the “do it yourself” stores make it look and sound easy.

If you wouldn’t try to do plumbing or electrical work in your home then maybe you shouldn’t do tile, either. Roofing is a skilled trade. Plumbing, electrical, framing, they all have training programs, certifications, etc. Well, so does the tile industry. But, everyone thinks they can do it themselves.

Being a tile setter is a learned trade and at Legacy Bath and Tile we have spent 11 years learning, training and working at perfecting our trade. Knowledge is the key!

Here are 3 Keys to picking the best quality contractor or tile installer if you don’t have the knowledge or training to do it yourself (and do it right).

1. Ask to see references and or certifications. Previous customers can say a lot about someone.  Check out their google reviews or reviews on their Facebook page. Ask about their tile certifications. If they can’t tell you right off, consider that maybe they don’t have a certification.
If you have questions, ASK. They should be very open about techniques and products used and what types of  warranties they offer.

2. Know the products. It’s your money and your home. You need to know what you are getting. You should know the products your contractor plans to use for your project. You can always do your own research on products they mention or on products that should be used.

3. Understand the warranties/guaranties. Do your own research; industry recommended products may vary by project type. Appropriate products for your situation and what warranties are offered with those products are things to be aware of and understand. 

So, while DIY projects may be within the scope of your knowledge base, if you have never had experience or training in tile setting, these tips will help you hire a contractor who you can trust to have the experience, honesty, and integrity to get the job done right.