Much like having windows replaced or a new roof put on, it is highly unlikely that any homeowner will go his or her entire life without having to hire a gutter contractor. Gutters are an important part of any home. After all, without a functional gutter system, your home could fall into disrepair from water damage or even structural issues.
Hiring the right gutter contractor to work on your North Carolina or South Carolina residence can feel like a daunting task, however. One of the most complex aspects of choosing a gutter contractor is understanding the quotes you receive from each of the companies you’re thinking about hiring. Here, we breakdown what you should be on the lookout for when you receive a quote and how you can use that information to choose the right gutter installer for you.
Know the difference between a quote and an estimate.
Understanding the difference between a gutter installation quote and a gutter installation estimate is critically important. Some homeowners use these terms interchangeably, but they are not actually the same.
A quote typically comes after an assessment of your home and includes exact details about the materials that will be used, the presumed cost of labor for the anticipated length of the project, a start date, and more. Essentially, a quote is given to homeowners who are very serious about using a specific contractor for a job.
An estimate, on the other hand, provides a homeowner with a general idea of how much a particular contractor typically charges for a general type of remodeling project, such as gutter installation. It does not take specific information about your job into account.
Understand the factors that can impact a quote.
Once you’ve decided which local Carolina home improvement contractors you want to get quotes from, you need to understand what factors can influence each bidder’s final price. Some common factors are outlined below.
Upscale contractors – Some gutter installers specialize in working on luxury homes. These companies might charge more than their competitors for a variety of reasons. For one thing, they simply can. Homeowners who live in high-end neighborhoods are generally willing to spend more money for services. Secondarily, they may have better equipment and tools than other contractors, playing into their price point.
Material expenses – There are several materials that are commonly used to make gutters. Depending on which one you choose, your bottom line will be impacted. Copper gutters, for example, will last a lifetime, but are at the top end of the price spectrum. Vinyl and aluminum gutters, however, are both more affordable, which will lead to a lower overall cost.
Labor charges – Every contracting company charges slightly differently for labor depending on the size of the crew, the time of year in which a project is occurring, and how they handle paying salaries. Since these policies differ from contractor to contractor, you won’t know exactly how labor charges will impact your quotes until you have them in hand.
If you’re ready to work with the best team in the business, contact Hatch Homes for your free quote. We take pride in helping North Carolina and South Carolina homeowners turn their houses into dream homes they can enjoy for years to come.