Guide to Carpentry in Calgary: Your Home Renovation Checklist

Looking for top-notch home renovation in Calgary? More and more Canadians are choosing to enhance their homes rather than relocating. This decision offers numerous advantages, allowing you to maintain your cherished neighborhood connections and sidestep the costs and hassles associated with moving. But, if you’ve decided to invest in your existing home, the next crucial step is finding a reputable company to upgrade it. 

So, how can you find the best Calgary-based finish carpentry business for your home renovations? This article will outline key steps to help you identify the right company for your project. 

Define Your Renovation Scope 

Begin by defining the scope of work for your home renovation. Are you looking for aesthetic improvements like new paint, flooring, accent walls, shelving, and built-in cabinetry? Or do you have more extensive changes in mind, such as expanding your home’s footprint with additions like a new story or an in-law suite? 

The scope of your project will determine the type of company you need. If it’s a comprehensive overhaul, you’ll want to hire a full-service renovation company. Look for those that advertise expertise in additions and renovations. Such companies have experience in the specific work you require and a network of sub-trades to handle various tasks. 

Sub-Trades for Your Renovation 

Next, consider the different sub-trades that may be required for your renovation project. For instance, if you plan to create an open concept layout by installing a new kitchen and removing walls, you’ll need services from various trades: 

• Demolition specialists
• HVAC technicians
• Plumbers
• Electricians
• Insulation experts
• Framers
• Drywall installers
• Painters
• Cabinet makers
• Cabinet installers
• Countertop installers
• Glass installers
• Roofers
• Siding and gutter installers
• Stone masons
• Flooring and carpet installers
• Tile installers
• Landscapers
• Concrete contractors

Additionally, you might require the services of project managers, interior designers, engineers, architects, and foremen. Established companies often have relationships with high-quality sub-trades, ensuring efficient teamwork and on-time project completion. 

Hiring Sub-Trades Yourself 

If your project is relatively small and only involves a few of the trades listed above, you may choose to hire them directly. In this case, you’ll act as the general contractor. While this can save you money, hiring the wrong trades can lead to additional costs, as subpar work may need to be redone. 

The next section of this article will explain how to filter out the best trades when contracting with smaller companies. The goal is to identify reputable, established trades with a track record of completing projects successfully and possessing the necessary licenses and skills. 

Checking for Online Presence 

The first step in assessing potential trades is to ensure they have a strong online presence. A company with a recognizable brand is more likely to provide quality products and services since they’ve invested time and effort in building their reputation. 

Start by checking their Google Business profile, which should include reviews and a registered physical location. Other platforms like Houzz, Yelp, HomeAdvisors, Homestars, and TrustedPros also provide contractor profiles with reviews and project images. 

Next, visit the company’s website and explore their social media profiles. In today’s digital age, not having a website is a red flag. A reputable company should have a website that offers information about its history, ownership, and links to social media platforms. Many trades and contractors can be found on Instagram, LinkedIn, Pinterest, Facebook, and even TikTok. You can also search for the owner’s name on YouTube or Spotify to find interviews or podcasts. 

Contacting Potential Trades 

Once you’ve narrowed down your choices, it’s time to make initial contact. During your conversation, we recommend you to ask the following questions: 

• How long has the company been in operation? 
  • Look for companies with at least 3 years of experience, these companies have a portfolio of completed projects that they can show you so you can check their craftsmanship. 

• Do you have liability insurance?
  • This is important! If they cause a fire in your home, or drop a hammer onto the neighbors car, they need to have the right insurance. Look for at least $2 million in liability coverage. 

• Do they have WCB insurance?  
  • To confirm this, feel free to ask them for a clearance letter. Don’t proceed if the company cannot produce it. WCB coverage is mandatory and if a worker gets injured on your property without it, you could end up on the hook. 

• Do they have a standard contract? 
  • Alberta contractors who take deposits before beginning work need to be registered with the province. Part of this process, and the consumer protection act, ensure that they have an approved and standardized contract for all the work they do. This protects them and you. You can confirm provincially licensed contractors here.

• Are they licensed? 
  • Some trades, such as plumbing, electrical and HVAC are compulsory and must be licensed. Others such as carpentry, tile and drywall, are optional trades, which means licensing is not mandatory. However, those who do have their license, also known as a Red Seal, have undergone significant in school and on the job training. You can verify trade licenses here.

By following these steps, you can confidently choose the right trades for your Calgary-based finish carpentry project. Remember that your home is a significant investment, so taking the time to research and hire qualified professionals can save you money and headaches in the long run. 

If you’re ready to enhance your home with our expert carpentry services, don’t hesitate to contact us for a quote. We are fully licensed and have over 10 years of experience in the finish carpentry business–making us the perfect team to turn your home renovation dreams into a reality! Check out our portfolio here and get a free estimate here. 

For more insights into the world of customers and contractors, check out our podcast, Constructive Conversations.