How to choose a PVC membrane installer?

In the previous article, we provided an overview of the different advantages of taking advantage of the fall and winter months to plan your PVC membrane installation project for your patio.

One of the major elements to consider in this planning is the installers you will hire to do the work. Here are some important points not to overlook when trying to find the ideal company for your work.

1) Online presence

Nowadays, one of the first reflexes of all consumers who are looking for a product or service is to reload information online. By the same token, any controllers or companies that do not ensure they have a certain presence on the web are depriving themselves of potential customers.

The fact that a company has a website does not guarantee the quality of the work that will be carried out and impeccable customer service. But any serious entrepreneur will make sure to increase their visibility as soon as possible.

Perhaps a start-up company does not yet have the disposable income to design a website. In this case, does she have a professional Facebook or Instagram page? Have they taken the time to create a Google Business (GMB) profile?

2) Reviews and comments

In the same vein, it is always interesting to check the opinions and comments available on the web concerning the company to which you are perhaps considering offering the contract.

Once again, this is not an absolutely reliable method, but it can still give a good idea of the type of people with whom you will have to deal.

3) Communication and customer service

Once you've narrowed down one or two businesses and looked at their reviews, the next step is to contact them.

Most websites offer the possibility of using a form to join the company. If you use this method, be sure to give some details that will allow the contractor to already see you informed.

Be patient to receive their response, but not too much. Tell yourself that if the response to your message is slow to arrive, this gives a good indication that the rest of your communications with them may not be as smooth as desired.

If you contact them by phone, and leave a message on the answering machine, the same principle applies. You want to do business with people who are proactive and committed to your project.

The people you interact with should have the patience to answer all your questions and have the ability to explain things clearly. You should never pay for something you don't understand.

4) Previous projects

Most contractors who have a website will have a section on it where you can see work they have done for previous clients.

If this isn't available, ask them to send you photos of projects they've done that have similarities to yours.

Another interesting option is to have the opportunity to visit a project in person.

5) Product quality

There are different qualities of PVC membrane for patio covering. Over the years, we have unfortunately observed certain deficiencies in the products of certain competitors, some of which have a minor impact on the project, while others have more significant consequences.

What is the lifespan of the product? (Don’t buy anything with a lifespan of less than 15 years)

After a few years, what percentage of its color does the membrane lose when exposed to sunlight? (10% after 5 years is an acceptable limit, usually there should be no loss of color after this period)

Does the membrane shrink over time? (The answer should be an unequivocal “no”)

Is there a warranty available that covers the equipment? (“Yes” is the only acceptable answer)

6) Contract and invoices

Protect yourself and make sure the company is ready to provide you with a contract. It is all the more important to ensure this if you get ahead of the curve and hire workers several months in advance.

Also confirm with them that they will provide you with an invoice at the end of the project, and ask them to include the available guarantees, both on the contract and on the invoice.

Are you ready?

After having covered all these points, you are now better equipped to make an informed choice when the time comes to undertake the work.

Cutting corners when it comes to choosing a contractor is a mistake you don’t want to make. Take the time to check out their online presence and read reviews from previous customers. Check if the exchanges you have with the representatives are respectful and constructive. Ask to see work done, find out about the quality of their product and finally make sure that they offer you transactions in good order.

If you would like to know more or if you would like to start the conversation about your project today, do not hesitate to contact us.

You can also receive a free and quick quote using this form.

We wish you a wonderful holiday season!