Need an Insulation Company? Here’s Some Tips on Choosing the Right One
Colorado winters aren’t just chilly. Freezing temperatures are normal, sometimes for weeks in a row. When the snow starts piling up and temperatures drop, you expect to stay warm and cozy in your home.
If you’re dealing with cold drafts and ridiculously high utility bills, the problem may be with your home’s insulation. You need to call in the insulation contractors in Loveland, CO but how do you know if you’re choosing the right service provider?
Simple Tips for Choosing a Colorado Insulation Contractor
Finding a contractor to install your home’s insulation is pretty easy. A simple online search should bring up plenty of local options. However, not all outfits are equal.
Things can vary like service quality and your overall cost. Here are a few tips on choosing the right insulation company to help ensure you stay warm this winter and cool in the summer.
Do a Little Research
Before looking into insulation contractors take a minute to think about your goals. Does your home’s insulation need a complete overall? You know, ripping out what’s left of the existing insulation and installing a new barrier.
What about the type of insulation? You have a few options. For example, do you want to go with foam or cellulose insulation? The type of insulation you choose can affect everything from being able to easily keep your home at a comfortable temperature to the project’s cost.
Check for Licensing and Insurance
Unlike the majority of other states, Colorado doesn’t require licensing for insulation contractors. However, this doesn’t mean local laws are the same. Chances are, your municipality does require licensing for insulation contractors, even if it’s not mandated at the state level.
Yes, this is a little confusing but it’s always best to go with a licensed contractor regardless of local ordinances. A license indicates the contractor has undergone training and has the skills necessary for installing insulation without damaging your property.
After all, you don’t want your insulation installation to result in something like wall or ceiling damage. A licensed contractor has also gone through safety training.
When it comes to insurance, you always want a contractor to carry insurance. Sure, your homeowner’s insurance policy may cover any injuries occurring during the project. This usually also means your insurance premiums are going to skyrocket. This means you’re paying more for the insulation installation than you originally thought.
Get Some Recommendations
Your family, friends, and even co-workers may be able to give you some recommendations. Chances are, you’re not the only homeowner with less-than-effective insulation. Don’t just take their word. You still need to do some research like checking for insurance and licensing. However, getting a few recommendations can help you narrow down your possible options.
Did you know your energy provider may be able to help? Hop over to the energy provider’s website. You may be able to find a list of approved and/or preferred insulation contractors. If you can’t find a list, go ahead and make a phone call. Just because the list isn’t posted online doesn't necessarily mean it’s not in a file.
Start Gathering Estimates
Prices are going to vary, sometimes significantly. While the type of insulation is going to impact costs, other factors can also come into play. A good tip is to set up appointments with at least three insulation contractors. Most offer a free consultation or inspection. Take advantage of this offer.
Have the contractor walk through your home and point out any areas of concern like a drafty attic. Collect the estimates and see which contractor is offering the best price. Keep in mind that the lowest price isn’t always the best. A low price may indicate the contractor is using subpar-quality insulation.
Review Payment Terms Before Signing a Contract
You’re going to want to review the contract terms before signing on the dotted line. You don’t want to get hit with any surprise costs after the project’s finished. IF the insulation contractor isn’t offering a contract, it’s probably a good idea to go with someone else.
Check the contract for the following:
Total fee
The amount required upfront before work begins
Milestones for progress payments
Itemized budget (including materials, labor, permits, and fees)
Types of payment accepted
Project timeline
Scope of work
If everything is in order, sign on the dotted line. Then if any problems happen to pop up, refer back to the contract—now congratulations! You now have a professional insulation contractor ready to start working on your drafty home.