Pitfall #1: Choosing a Company Without Testimonials. Any reputable company, with a good customer base, should have testimonials. If their clients are not saying good things about them, how can you expect good results?
Pitfall #2: Choosing a Contractor Based on Low Price. If you choose a company based only on price, it’s because you had nothing else to base your decision on. There are better things to base your buying decision on when it comes to protecting your investment. Professionalism, quality, knowledge, appearance, what their customers are saying about them, and what are the benefits to you are all things that should be considered when choosing a power washing company. Also, some companies bid low to get the job and are then forced to cut corners and sacrifice quality in order to turn a profit.
Pitfall #3: Choosing a Contractor Based on a Single Phone Call. Instead, invite the contractor to your home, and ask for a fair and honest quote; all quality contractors offer them. Complementary consultations are a great way to test the contractor’s knowledge and to see his appearance and professionalism first hand, with no obligations. You will also have a written quote, so there will not be any overcharges or surprise add-ons.
Pitfall #4: Choosing a Contractor Who Does Not Offer a Guarantee. Your satisfaction and trust are the staples of a great customer experience. Not all power washing companies offer a guarantee. Ask the contractor if he offers a satisfaction guarantee, and then make sure he includes this guarantee in the written quote.
Pitfall #5: Choosing a Contractor that is not Licensed, Bonded, and Insured. How do you know whether your contractor is Licensed, Bonded, or Insured? If you want to be sure you are hiring a competent professional, make sure he shows you his credentials up front.
Pitfall #6: Choosing a Contractor Who is not a Member of Your Local Chamber of Commerce, BNI Chapter, and Home Builders Association. Contractors that are members of these organizations are dedicated to (1) Honest, ethical business practices, (2) staying current on the latest methods for cleaning and restoration, (3) the highest possible level of customer service. You are making a wise decision when you have your property maintained by professionals associated with these organizations.
Pitfall #7: Choosing a Contractor Who uses Consumer Grade Equipment and Cleaners. Home owner grade equipment is a sure sign of a “fly-by-night” company. If the contractor you hire uses the same little 2.2 gallon per minute pressure washer that you saw on sale at the home improvement store, you might want to reconsider hiring him. Professional contractors use 3.5 to 5.5 gallon per minute cold water units for residential use that can also be made to do hot water applications when necessary. If a contractor is using consumer grade equipment, he is probably using consumer grade cleaners, also. House, deck, and concrete cleaners that are sold to consumers have to be safe to handle, therefore, they are not very concentrated or very effective. Contractor grade cleaners sold through distributors are still environmentally safe but are more concentrated and must be handled with care. Contractor grade cleaners are necessary in order to achieve quality results, without using high pressure, which could lead to damage.
House, deck, and concrete cleaners that are sold to consumers have to be safe to handle, therefore, they are not very concentrated or very effective. Contractor grade cleaners sold through distributors are still environmentally safe but are more concentrated and must be handled with care. Contractor grade cleaners are necessary in order to achieve quality results, without using high pressure, which could lead to damage.
