FAQs
- What should the customer know about your pricing (e.g., discounts, fees)?
While some installers give a flat hourly rate, I feel that is little incentive for them to get the job done in a timely manner. Our estimates are detailed enough so you know exactly where your money is going. If a tight budget needs to be met, adjustments can be made without any suprises at the end of the project. Too often I hear about companies that offer a low estimate to get the job, and end up charging much more on the final invoice. Any changes to the estimate are approved before work is started.
- What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I am a daily visitor to the John Bridge forums where professional tile installers hang out and help DIY (do it yourselfers) with questions on their projects, as well as hang out, brag, and educate each other on everything you can think of related to tile. New products, reviews of new and old, sharing techniques, showing off pictures of jobs we are currently working on, or just sharing pictures of the catch from the latest fishing trip. It's known as the friendliest DIY forum on the internet. I've been going there and learning from other professionals for a long time. if a customer has a tough question, or he doubts my answer, it's good to be able to send him somewhere where he can openly ask other professionals. I'm also certified by Laticrete with all of their products, a certified installer of Wedi products, certified with all of Masterheat's in-floor heating products and I attend several home shows during the year representing them and talking to homeowners about their products.
- How did you get started doing this type of work?
I actually kind of stumbled into it. Looking for work, my sister worked at a tile supply company, and heard that someone needed some help. I started out on the ground level, literally, my first day was spent on my hands and knees, grouting a floor for 8 hours. 13 years later I'm the owner of my own company and still loving what I do.