Great Resource to find Contractor

Great Resource to find Contractor

I always find it difficult to find a good contractor. I usually depend on referals from friends, but still it is difficult. The current economy takes a toll on many contractors and some are going out of business due to the economy. Others get bought up by larger companies and so you eventually lose track of that great handyman that fixed your furnace or replaced the springs at your garage door. I talked to a few friends and one of them suggested to try a new service called “Angie’s List” to me. What is Angie’s list? The Answer: Angie's List is a service that helps you to find high quality contractors, service companies and even doctors – all in your local area. You can then read up on reviews or even rate the contractor that did some work for you.

Visit Angie’s List here to take a look. It should not be a problem finding a good contractor for our area here.

Angie’s List also frequently publishes helpful tips. I am listing a few below – hoping they might be of benefit for you.

1. Check the exterior of your home for snow, ice or wind damage. Finding damage early will increase your chances of getting an early repair, as many home improvement companies begin their busy seasons this time of year.
2. Check the weather stripping around doors and windows.
3. Inspect your crawl space for water accumulation or excessive moisture. Check for water damage on the sub-floor and joists beneath the kitchen, bathroom and laundry areas.
4. Get in the garage and take a close look at your garden equipment and tools. If your lawnmower needs serviced, it’s a good idea to call now. Garden service companies will get busy in the next couple of weeks. Don’t forget to clean and sharpen other garden tools as well.
5. Check out your roof. Depending on the style and pitch of your roof, you may want to use a ladder and a pair of binoculars to look for missing or broken shingles and other damage. If you don’t feel comfortable on a ladder, call a professional before the busy season begins.
6. Check the valve where water enters your house, outdoor faucets and valves to toilets, bathroom and kitchen sinks. Turn each valve off and on several times to identify any leaks.
7. Get your carpets cleaned. Experts recommend a professional carpet cleaning every 12 to 18 months, but this can vary depending on how many people live in your home and if you have children or pets. Dirty carpet contains soil and other debris that will wear your carpet’s fibers. Schedule an appointment with carpet cleaners now to cut down on your wait time.
8. Clean your gutters. Professionals recommend gutter cleaning in the spring and the fall. Clogged gutters can lead to water damage in your home.
9. Remove wet leaves and debris from your deck, front porch and around your house. Use a garden hose on your siding and deck to remove the film left by dirty snow and rain. Attach a soft-bristled, long-handled car brush to the hose for some extra help. Use a mild cleanser to get those tough-to-clean spots. Allowing the debris to accumulate can trap water, lead to staining or mold build-up and create an ideal environment for termites and moskitos.

As you can see, there is some good stuff to think about. If you are in need for a good contractor to get some of that work done, check out Angie’s List. Visit their website. Read reviews and ratings and then pick a contractor you can trust.