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Ask the Experts: Ross Marzarella
06/27/2008
Ross Marzarella is Vice President and Chief Operations Officer for All County Exteriors, located in Lakewood, NJ, and serving central New Jersey and eastern Pennsylvania for roofing, siding, windows and doors, additions, and sunrooms since 1983.
Ross is responsible for all customer interactions – sales, installation, and warranty functions – and recently completed an extensive renovation, adding 2,500 square feet to his own home in Fort Washington, PA.
Ross Marzarella
All County Exteriors
Lakewood, NJ 08701
(732) 370-2780
With all the various types of contractors available – general contractors, kitchen, exterior, etc. – when picking an exterior contractor, what are the top criteria for choosing the right one for the job?
When I renovated my own home, the top three criteria I looked for in an exterior contractor were reputation, warranty coverage, and value. I asked myself these questions: 1) Is this a company with a reputation I can trust to complete the job? Will this contractor meet my timeframe? What do other customers say? Check out references, the Better Business Bureau, and the NJ Department of Consumer Affairs. 2) Exterior products like roofing, siding, etc., all have a manufacturer’s warranty. Does the contractor have the credentials to properly install my products? Will I receive their full manufacturer’s warranty; is there a warranty on the labor? 3) Am I getting the best value? The issue is not who is cheapest, but who can meet my requirements for appearance and function at the best price. The key is getting the best price for the life expectancy you need. Once these questions were answered for me, fully and in writing, my choice was clear.
What “red flags” should people be aware of when considering a specific contractor?
In addition to the items mentioned above, consider whether the contractor treats you with respect (answering phone calls, keeping appointments). Are your questions answered completely? Did you receive a detailed proposal in writing? You must receive a copy of their insurance coverage, and they should be licensed for the work they’re proposing. If they are not licensed, it’s unlikely they can deliver the manufacturer’s warranty.
When choosing someone to do an exterior remodel how many bids do you think are necessary?
Get bids until you have one or two that completely respond to the scope of the project you define. It’s important to have a detailed Scope of Work that you expect your contractor to complete. If you want new trim, say that in your scope; if you want new windows, be specific. This information should be repeated back to you in the bid responses. You may need more than one bid if some of the questions are not answered or are incomplete. If the company you’re dealing with responds to everything outlined, then you’ve found a great contractor.
How do you compare different bids, and why are there big variances among bids?
Make up a checklist of criteria: reputation, references, etc.; license and insurance in writing; reliability; Scope of Work; the product proposed and its warranty; repairs, extras, warranty on labor; price and payment terms; timeframe. Write down what the contractor says about each of these items; if you don’t know, call and ask questions. If you can’t get answers, that’s a red flag! Your biggest difference in price will probably be the products used and extra elements needed to complete the work. There are hundreds to choose from, so make sure your contractor knows your budget and can match that with your needs.
What expectations are realistic or unrealistic for an exterior project?
When the project begins, that’s when your expectations and the written proposals need to completely match. If you settle with a handshake there’s an opportunity for a gap between expectations and results. If your contract for new siding says “use existing trim,” that’s what will happen. If your contract for new windows says “no interior finishing,” that’s what to expect. Of course, while the project is in progress your home will be a construction site; expect a Dumpster and a stack of new materials. There will be trucks, ladders, workmen, activity, and noise all around your home. Follow the checklist and compare your proposals thoroughly; get everything in writing. Then you’ll be best prepared for what is to come. You’ll also get the exterior renovation you want.
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