Tuesday, March 11, 2008

TRUE CONTRACTOR HORROR STORIES!!

TELL US YOUR CONTRACTOR STORY!
Protect your neighbor - Tell the world!

We've all heard the horror stories from our friends and the media about hiring a General Contractor... Contractor Fraud seems to have become an epidemic that is just out of control. The reality is that there are many Reputable Contractors out there, but most homeowners don't know how to properly identify them.

If you've been victimized by a Contractor Con, let the world know! No holds barred! I will also offer my comments in an effort to support educating other unsuspecting homeowners.

** TELL THE WORLD **
POST YOUR STORY HERE!

Thursday, March 6, 2008

ANOTHER CONTRACTOR SCAM...

There are many contractor scams to be aware of, but one of the most important is fraudulent representation of insurance! This is a classic Contractor Con! All contractors are provided an Insurance Certificate that itemizes the policy value and expiration date. It is Extremely important to ask to see this document! However, any contractor can present a seemingly valid insurance certificate! For all you know, the policy has been cancelled due to non payment the week before! If a contractor can't pay his premiums... where do you think your deposit is going? Right in his pocket!

ADVICE: You MUST take additional steps in screening contractors to avoid becoming an innocent victim. Reputable contractors will offer, but you must insist, that you receive a copy of their insurance certificate with your name as the certificate holder. There are Contractor Screening Tools available to assist you to find a Reputable Contractor... use them!

Monday, March 3, 2008

ITALIAN LAMINATE FLOORING


High Design, High Quality


Laminate floors aren’t all manufactured in Sweden or the US for that matter. ABET LAMINATI flooring, produced in northern Italy–just minutes from Milan, the fashion capital of the world–offers a variety of high design, high quality laminate floors. The 120 options include a wide range of choices from exotic woods such as Wenge, Olive and Zebrawood, to spectacular solid color planks. ABET’s Vintage line showcases rustic-like woods including aged Pine and Oak in oversized planks of almost six feet in length. These larger plank sizes inspire an "old world" look. Another design option is the raised texture in the Microline collection, which adds dimension to Douglas fir, Bamboo and Wenge wood-like patterns.

Design, when paired with nature, creates interesting results. The Fiber collection, made with jute fibers from recycled coffee bean sacks, will inadvertently have a coffee bean ground into its texture for an added perk. And natural veneers in a high pressure laminate format combine the beauty of real wood, with the durability of a laminate floor in the Parqwood line.

Usually residences with young children, large pets or a beach environment appreciate the durability of this laminate floor. It is resistant to scratches from chair wheels, foot traffic, pet claws, and scuff marks. It is also resistant to fire, acids and fading and has a lifetime residential warranty. When a homeowner seeks products with high quality, commercial durability and high design, they usually choose ABET LAMINATI. Unfortunately for the consumer, this flooring is rarely available through a local retailer. Due to the market positioning and pricing, beginning at approximately $8.50 per square foot installed, residential clients generally find ABET’s flooring through a professional designer. However, the laminate floor can be purchased directly from ABET, Inc. in the US, for under $6.00 per square foot including delivery.
Installation is easy
Thanks to a tongue and groove joint that is simple but mechanically sound, ABET’s laminate floors can be float-fitted over an existing floor without requiring long hours of work. Plank size is approximately 7-1/2 inches x 48 inches
Care for laminate flooring

One of the greatest reasons for purchasing a laminate floor is its lack of maintenance and its ability to look new for many years. Just like cleaning a laminate kitchen counter top, ammonia and water or vinegar and water work well. Window cleaners are perfect for spot cleaning. Since laminate floors absorb nothing, using soaps that leave a wax residue such as wood soap or vinyl cleaners will only create a haze on the surface. A slightly damp mop will remove dust. For samples or more information log onto the ABET LAMINATI web site.


Sunday, March 2, 2008

IT'S COSTING MORE THAN I EXPECTED!

Most Contractor Cons can be avoided! There are so many things that could go wrong when in the midst of a remodeling project. The most important thing that homeowners need to realize is that EVERY project will exceed the initial budget - The only variable is by how much. That unexpected increase in expense is usually the root of most problems that occur. How you control or monitor the additional expense will eliminate the insecurity of what's reasonable. If you do not assume the final cost to be at least 15% - 20% more than the contract value, you will find yourself left with you home in shambles and no money left to have it completed.

Once a project begins, homeowners MUST document every stage of the project, including Inspection approvals, Payments made, Verbal agreements, and any additional expenses incurred that are not detailed within the Construction Agreement. What's more... homeowners must be aware of their right to withhold the final payment until you are completely satisfied with the end-result. A Final Inspection should be performed with the Contractor to ensure all your questions or issues have been addressed. There are very effective tools available to assist you in protecting yourself throughout the entire project.

ADVICE: Be aware of what's going on and Track everything that happens from start to finish. If this is done effectively, you will not only Reduce The Risk of being dissatisfied, you will be prepared in case you have to take legal action.