Obviously the doors to your home are very important and the reasons should be obvious. It keeps out intruders and keeps in the children and pets! A door makes a first impression with everyone that comes into the home, so it's important that this impression be the one you're looking for. It should set a nice tone for welcome visitors and a foreboding one for unwelcome intruders.
The exterior doors to your home need to do more than just look good; they must function properly as well. A door needs to be sealed properly or cold air gets in and the home's heat gets out. A door that is installed improperly will not swing the right way, may not close properly, and may stick. All of these are very annoying! So of course it's always good to have a professional handle this job.
Tips for Selecting a Door Contractor in California
To find a door contractor, start by:
- Asking for referrals from those who work on homes such as general contractors and professionals.
- Try building supply stores; they may have a list of contractors you could contact.
- Searching online; narrow your search simply by your location and any relevant keywords.
- Asking friends and family if they have referrals as well.
And once you narrow your list of possibilities, you can then:
- Ask if they have a license to work in California.
- Ask if they are insured and bonded.
- Ask for references.
- Ask for a free written estimate.
- Ask for a guarantee of the work.
- Ask if they will dispose of the old door (if you don't plan on keeping it).
- Ask if they will install extra locks (if you would like those installed).
These may seem like a lot of questions but a professional contractor will expect them and even more in addition to these. Always call the references you're provided.
A door installation usually takes just a few hours but of course it needs to last a lifetime! It pays to have it done right the first time by having a professional handle this job.
And here are some last considerations for you:
- Check up on this person's reputation and be sure it's a good one.
- Don't feel obligated to hire the first contractor you speak with.
- You can use a general contractor if you cannot find a door contractor or specialist in California. But again, ask how much experience they have in this type of job in particular.
