The 5 key questions to ask your contractor BEFORE signing a contract

Even though we are in the midst of winter with short days and cold temperatures, this time of year is a great time to do a little research if you are considering a home project for the spring.  Contractors are typically slower during the winter months and have time to talk and answer questions about your project. 

I am frequently asked what are the most important things to ask a contractor before engaging in a home improvement project.  In my opinion there are 5 questions you should always ask any company before allowing them to work on your home, whether it is a repair or a full remodel.  If you are planning a project in 2014, I encourage you to ask any contractor you plan to interview for bids these 5 questions.

1. Are they fully licensed/bonded/insured?  A reputable company should provide you with state licensing certificate number.  Ask if they carry full workman's comp for their employees.  It says a lot about a company that takes care of it's employees in case of a job related injury.  
2. Does the company offer any type of warranty on workmanship?   At Cedarbrook, we have so much confidence in our skilled labor that we back each job with a 5 year workmanship guarantee.
3. Does the contractor/company have a physical location/office?  A full service and well established contractor should have an office with staff that is readily available to answer questions, contact a job foreman or assist with billing.
4. Ask for references that you can speak to.  If possible, ask for a couple of references from jobs that are more than 1 year old.  Speaking to an older client can provide insight into how well the project is holding up.
5. Will the estimate include all project details and costs?  A quick sketch and price quote based on square footage is not a professional written estimate. Our design packages include a fully documented project scope, design plan and permit ready building plans. There are no hidden costs.  Beware of signing any contract that does not provide detailed project and site preparation information along with the cost of materials.

Price is not the only factor in determining the best contractor for your next project.  If you take a little time to do your homework, it will pay off with the finished project.  Good luck with your research.  If I can help you in any way, please contact me.
Have a safe and happy New Year and a prosperous 2014!
- Mike

Things to do in this beautiful fall weather!!

Now that fall has officially arrived it is a great time to get outdoors and enjoy the beautiful weather and all the events happening in our area.  Every now and then we take a look around and offer up some suggestions on fun events for the entire family.  Here’s a few coming up in the next few weeks.  Enjoy!!

For those seeking a little adventure this weekend, whitewater rafting could be just right.

Peak Fall Colors Whitewater Rafting - Savage River Dam Release

Date: 9/28/2013 Time: 9:00 am to 4:00 pm Location: 89 Owens Ave Bloomington, MD 21523 

For more information contact:
River & Trail Outfitters river@rivertrail.com
301-695-5177  

Website: http://www.rivertrail.com/rafting-savage-dam-release.php

This event has it all – exercise, scenery, a finish line at one of our lovely local wineries and it benefits the MS society.  

Bike MS: Bike to Bordeaux

Sep 28, 2013  Bike MS: Bike to Bordeaux offers 16, 35 and 60 mi. bicycling route options. After crossing the finish line at Linganore Winecellars, cyclists can enjoy a complimentary lunch and wine tasting. The money raised will fund research into the cause, cure and treatment of multiple sclerosis.

Location:

13601 Glissans Mill Road, Mount Airy, Maryland 21771

Phone: 443-641-1225
Website: http://www.bikemsvineyard.org  

MountAiryFestivals.com - Hometown Family Fun! 

A local tradition hosted by the Lions Club, this Family event draws thousands of people each year. In conjunction with the Mt Airy Volunteer Fireman's Auxiliary and Mt Airy Lion's Club, the event will be held at the Mt Airy Volunteer Fireman's Carnival Grounds, where there will be more space, more parking and MORE FUN!!!!!

Fall Festival - October 5 and 6, 2013

In 2013, Saturday's events and activities will start at 10am and go until 6pm, Sunday will be from 10am to 5pm.

http://www.mtairylions.com/festivals.htm  

And we can’t forget Halloween events!! 

The Great Pumpkin Patch

Oct 12, 2013

Come out and celebrate the pumpkin season at the Great Pumpkin Patch two day event. Enjoy hayrides, inflatable moon bounces, face painting, a petting zoo, pony rides, pumpkin decorating, and so much more. Don't forget to bring your best candy collecting bag and hop on the Trick or Treat Trail to meet n greet with your favorite cartoon, superhero, or movie characters.

http://calendar.visitmaryland.org/Views/Events/Details.aspx?id=48027

Location:

12406 Old National Pike Mount Airy, Maryland 21771