Okay, so you've decided to take the big step and encapsulate your crawl space. Great choice! It's a fantastic way to protect your home, improve your health, and save some money on those energy bills (and prevent future repairs!). But now comes the tricky part: finding the right company for the job.
As a professional crawl space encapsulation company, Restore-It has over a decade of experience. We have seen everything from exemplary crawl spaces to botched jobs that leave much to be desired. Thankfully, we will teach you how to pick the best company for your needs.
Navigating a world of contractors, warranties, and moisture barriers can be difficult, but we are here to help. We've put together this handy guide to walk you through the important factors to consider when choosing a crawl space encapsulation company. So, let's get started!
Experience Matters
A cheap, poorly done job is always more expensive than a good job done professionally. Not only will you have to look for a different company, but you may also need to repair or remove material from your crawl space. This adds time and labour to your bill. The best way to separate the pros from the amateurs is to look at their experience.
A company with a proven track record is more likely to deliver quality results and handle any unexpected challenges that may arise. Think of it like choosing a dentist – you probably wouldn't want someone who just graduated dental school poking around in your mouth, would you?
Insurance Coverage and Related Certifications
While Arkansas doesn't have a specific license for crawl space encapsulation, that doesn't mean you can't verify a company's qualifications. First, make sure the company you work with is insured. This protects you in case of any accidents or damage during the project. You don't want to be stuck with a hefty bill (or worse, a lawsuit) if something goes wrong.
Another thing to take into account is the state of your crawl space. Depending on your specific scenario, you may find mold or water damage that needs to be addressed BEFORE encapsulation begins. This is where mold remediation or water damage restoration certifications come in handy. Any reputable company will have no problem showing proof of their license and related certifications.
Verify Their Reputation
In today's digital world, checking out a company's reputation is easier than ever. Look for online reviews on sites like Google, Yelp, and Angie's List. See what other customers have to say about their experiences with the company.
Pay attention to both positive and negative reviews. A few negative reviews here and there are normal, but if you see a pattern of complaints, that's a red flag. You can also ask the company for references from past customers.
Clear and Detailed Proposals
Before you sign on the dotted line, make sure you get a detailed proposal from the company. This should include:
- A thorough inspection of your crawl space
- A clear explanation of the encapsulation process
- A list of materials to be used
- A detailed breakdown of costs
- A timeline for the project
- Warranty information
Don't be afraid to ask questions and clarify anything that's unclear. A reputable company will gladly discuss the proposal and address any concerns.
Warranties and Guarantees
Crawl space encapsulation is an investment in your home and health. To protect this investment, look for a company that offers solid warranties and guarantees on its work and materials. This will give you peace of mind, knowing that if something goes wrong, you're covered.
Ask about the warranty length, what it covers, and the claim process. A good warranty is like a safety net – you hope you never need it, but it's good to know it's there just in case.
What to Ask Your Crawl Space Encapsulation Company
Okay, so are you ready to make a few calls and gather some information? Great! Here's a handy list of questions to help you get the conversation started and gather the information you need to make an informed decision:
☐ About the Company
- How long have you been in business?
- Do you have a brick-and-mortar location?
- How many crawl space encapsulation projects have you completed?
- Are you insured? Can you provide proof?
- Do you have any certifications related to crawl space encapsulation or related fields (e.g., IICRC certifications)?
- Can you provide references from past customers?
- What is your service area? Do you serve my location?
☐ About the Encapsulation Process
- What is your process for encapsulating a crawl space?
- What materials do you use? What are the benefits of those materials?
- Do you offer any additional services?
- What is the typical timeline for a crawl space encapsulation project?
- How do you handle unexpected problems or challenges during the project?
☐ About Costs and Warranties
- What is the estimated cost of encapsulating my crawl space?
- What factors affect the cost?
- What is included in the price?
- Do you offer any financing options?
- What kind of warranty or guarantee do you offer on your work and materials?
☐ Other Important Questions
- How do you handle communication with customers throughout the project?
- What measures do you take to protect my home and belongings during the project?
- What is your cleanup and site restoration policy after the project is complete?
- What are your payment terms and options?
- Do you have any online reviews or testimonials I can read?
Don't be afraid to ask any other questions that come to mind. The more information you gather, the better equipped you will be to make the best decision.
The Bottom Line: Choosing the Right Fit For You
Choosing a crawl space encapsulation company is an important decision that should not be taken lightly. By considering these factors, you can find a reputable, experienced, and trustworthy company that will deliver quality results and protect your investment.
At Restore-It, we pride ourselves on our high standards and commitment to do a good job. But if you still want to find out if we are the right fit for you, check this article on what we offer as crawl space encapsulation professionals.
And remember, whether you have questions about the process or are ready to schedule an inspection, contact Restore-It. We're always here to answer your questions, provide guidance, and help you make the best decision for your home.
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