Choosing the right stone is only one step in ensuring your granite installation is the best it can be. Granite fabricators are responsible for the fit, quality, workmanship and craft of your granite installation, which can mean the difference between a stunning installation and a complete disaster. So, how do you decide which granite fabricator to trust with your order? Make sure to consider the following best practices:
Source: ArchCity
The company’s reputation. When you look for a granite fabricator in St. Louis, ask for a list of references and contact them to learn more about the company. Were they courteous and communicative? What was their turnaround time? How was the overall quality and fit of the installation and was it what the customer ordered?
You should also check out the company’s history, whether or not they have a local storefront you can visit and whether or not they’re affiliated with professional organizations like the Marble Institute of America. If not, be wary — they may not be as professional or well-established as some of your other choices.
Learn about the company’s manufacturing and installation practices. Does the fabricator use new or outdated technology? Will they personally install your granite, or do they subcontract that work? When they come to your house to measure, will they be using physical or digital measuring tools? Your granite fabricator should be willing to see the process through from granite selection and fabrication to final installation.
Check the company’s insurance. Whether it’s a workplace injury or damage to your property during installation, you should not be left on the hook for accidents during fabrication and installation. Inquire about company insurance and ask to see a copy of any installation agreements you’ll be required to sign.
Get bids from different companies. If you approach three fabricators with the same installation requirements, you should get fairly similar prices. If one quote is wildly above the others, beware, they may be trying to over-charge you. But the opposite can also be cause for concern. If one quoted price is far lower than the others, costs may be cut down in unfortunate places. If you have any concerns, check references and do additional research.
If you’re searching for a granite fabricator in St. Louis or O’Fallon, visit us at Arch City Granite & Marble, Inc! We’ll be happy to share our showroom with you and answer any questions you might have.