If you’re ready to enclose your pool or lanai, it’s a good idea to do some research before choosing your contractor. You want to ensure that you’ve chosen to work with a company that is experienced and capable of doing a good job. Do any friends or neighbors have screen enclosures? We suggest checking with them for recommendations—or to find out who to steer away from.
You could also turn to social media for recommendations or to look up a local company or two to see what type of feedback they’re getting. We suggest contacting at least three and having them come out to give you an estimated cost. Most companies offer this as a free service so if someone mentions charging, you may want to cross them off your list and move on.
When they arrive at your location, it’s a good idea to have a list of questions ready to ask them. The answers they give will help you determine which of the three is the best choice for you. If you have no idea what type of questions to ask, no worries. We’ve got you covered, just read on.
How long have you been in business?
It’s best to work with someone who has experience installing screen enclosures. Moreover, companies or independent contractors with years of experience bring some peace of mind to the table. Either is more likely to complete the installation to your satisfaction within the anticipated time frame. They aren’t as likely to go over budget either!
This would also be a good time to find out if they are licensed, bonded, and insured as well. All of these things are a huge plus. If they can’t prove they are, it’s best to move on to the next because should an accident occur on your property, you could be held liable.
Can you provide references?
If a contractor doesn’t readily share references upon request, it could be that they do shoddy work. It isn’t unheard of to ask to see a build in progress either. You can also check in with the Better Business Bureau to see if they have any information you would find useful.
Checking out their website is another good idea because posting images of completed projects—and sometimes different phases of a project—can let you get a feel for their work ethic.
How does the payment schedule work?
No one likes to get hit with a surprise when it comes to new construction. With good reason, we might add. It’s no fun being hit with a request for an installment payment out of the blue. Before signing a contract, make sure it entails how the company or independent contractor structures the payment schedule. If it’s based on completed milestones, it should be duly noted in writing.
Do you offer any guarantees?
Choosing a reputable contractor or screen enclosure company to work with makes it very likely that the materials used will be durable and long-lasting. However, sometimes a manufacturing defect can cause an enclosure to lose its structural integrity before it should. Manufacturers often provide guarantees, moreover, oftentimes, there is an additional guarantee on the work completed.
Only hire someone willing to stand behind their work. It protects your investment.
What materials will be used?
You may have options here, of course. If, however, there is a mention of Artisan wire screens, you might be leary because this type of screen is made of thin wire that doesn’t hold up well at all. These screens begin deteriorating almost immediately in the salty Florida air. It also breaks easily which could be dangerous for pets and young children.
It may not be the case, but this may be a sign that corners will be cut wherever possible.
Mesh screen, on the other hand, tolerates the salt. If you have a say in the matter, Phifer screens are manufactured right here in the USA. The company was established in 1952 and is the world’s largest producer of aluminum and fiberglass insect screening.
What is the projected timeline?
Knowing the answer to this question is a key part of the interview process. You want to have the job completed as soon as possible. Of course, many factors—such as weather, for instance—can affect the projected completion date. Still, it’s a good idea to know whether your contractor staggers multiple jobs which could lengthen your installation process.
Do you offer screen customization?
Some mesh screen enclosure companies, like ours, for instance, offer to customize the screens. Images are printed directly onto them using dyes infused with ultraviolet (UV) protection ensuring they remain vibrant for years. This feature allows you to completely change your surroundings.
Once your enclosure is up and you’ve added your furniture, lighting, and other decor your private getaway will be complete! The finished project is sure to be nothing short of remarkable.
Are you feeling confident?
That question is actually for you and not the contractor.
Equipping yourself with pertinent questions to ask during your estimates empowers you to decide who will build your family’s enclosure. It will be like adding an entire room to your home—one that is sure to become your family’s favorite place to hang out together. Your friends are going to think it’s pretty awesome too.
Screen enclosures provide your family with some amazing benefits.
They include:
- Increased privacy
- A bug-free area
- Keep out unwanted wildlife
- Provide a degree of UV protection
- An added level of safety
What are you waiting for? Make this summer—and every other season of the year—better. Create your own backyard getaway. It will be an investment you won’t ever regret making! Well, unless you wish you had enclosed an even bigger space!