FAQs
- How did you get started doing this type of work?
Construction is an innate talent and a true passion. As a child, I spent all of my time in the outdoors building forts and huts. Later during my high school years I was able to further nurture my talents by pursuing vocational credits towards construction. I enjoyed competing against other schools in wood working, an experience that gave me the opportunity to both showcase my talents and meet new people. Throughout my career years, I have worked in many construction fields: residential, commercial, petroleum construction, and my most recent as a General Manager with a design build landscaping company. Landscaping was just another step in the evolution of my career, as it combines my love for the outdoors and elements of construction together. My bachelor's degree is in Business Administration and Management with a minor in Project Management, so been a business owner was just a natural career progression for me.
- Describe a recent project you are fond of. How long did it take?
I have several: 1. A pool area that consisted of a new bluestone pool deck, retaining walls, a pool cabana, outdoor fireplace, and landscape plan with installation. (3 months) 2. Completed install of a new irrigation system that was comprised of 8 separate zones to include rotors, sprays, and drip types of irrigation. We also installed new outdoor lighting to illuminate the front of the house and front pathway to accentuate the architectural details of the house by using a combination of floods, bullets, and LED area lights. (1 week) 3. A grading and drainage project to eliminate soil erosion from a home built on a hill with a sloped yard by using a system of interconnected down spouts, area drains, and retaining walls. (2 weeks)
- What advice would you give a customer looking to hire a provider in your area of work?
Credentials are important but not everything. Many contractors out there carry all the credentials that they need to do the job, but that doesn't mean that they carry themselves in a professional manner or are values-oriented people. Make sure you ask for references. Read reviews online. Ask for their business license and insurance documentation. If they give you a quote without visiting and assessing the site that is not a good indication. A professional will want to visit to have an accurate picture of the condition of the site. A visit in person will return a more accurate quote, and will prevent and/or minimize change orders later. Pay attention to the way they talk to you. Are they really listening to your wants and needs? Can they repeat it? Are they agreeing with everything you are saying, or are they taking the time to provide solutions and educate you? Above all, check the thoroughness of their estimates. A detailed estimate is a good sign that the contractor wants to both protect you and themselves. Clear expectations means happy customers, and happy customers generate more business.