Which glass and mirror contractor is the right professional for your family's needs? Take a look at the do's and don'ts of choosing the just-right glass and mirror contractor for your next home improvement project.

Do Ask about a Consultation

Does the glass and mirror contractor send a technician to give you a cookie-cutter estimate for your custom job? Glass and mirror projects are often complex home improvement processes that require in-depth planning from start to finish. A quality glass and mirror contractor should send an experienced, knowledgeable employee to your home to discuss your décor or renovation needs.

The consultation should include:

• An in-home inspection. A contractor shouldn't ask you to measure your own window spaces for replacements or figure out the dimensions of your new frameless shower enclosure yourself. Instead, the professional should come to your home, inspect the potential renovation areas, and take the measurements for you.
• An array of options. Are you 100 percent sure of your glass or mirror needs? If not, the contractor should present a few different options during the consultation. The contractor should also explain the options and help you to understand which ones will fit your home and your needs.
• An estimate. After the glass and mirror professional inspects the future project area and presents the options, they should provide you with a written estimate. This should include the cost of materials and labor.

If you need a custom-cut piece of glass or mirror, discuss the overall design during the consultation. Ask the contractor about shape, size (including height, width, and thickness or depth), and specialty glazes or coatings.

Don't Emphasize Cost and Convenience

Every home improvement project should have a budget. But this doesn't mean you should choose a contractor solely based on the cost of their bid. Likewise, you shouldn't select one glass and mirror company based on the ability to create and install a custom piece quickly.

Instead of price and installation speed, consider:

• Quality. Does the contractor create high-quality custom pieces? Ask for references and photos of past projects to evaluate the quality of the contractor's work. A quality custom-cut pane of glass or mirror may take extra time to create. A same-day turnaround time is a red flag you shouldn't ignore.
• Customization. Can the contractor design and install custom pieces that may fit unconventional spaces or that aren't the norm? These could include smaller-sized windows, shaped windows, shaped mirrors, or frameless shower enclosures in off sizes.
• Installation. Specialty glass requires specialty installation. Like a custom cut, this may take time to complete. Even though you may prefer a quick installation, this isn't always possible for every project. Avoid contractors who are willing to sacrifice a quality installation for a quick timeframe.

If price is a major stumbling point, discuss the options with your would-be contractor. Most glass and mirror companies offer options at different price points.

Do Ask about Products and Projects

Does the contractor provide the services you need? Before you hire a company for your next glass or mirror project, make sure they can create the custom piece you want and install it. Ask the contractor questions such as:

• What types of custom services do you offer? In the glass and mirror industry, common service categories include replacement windows, glass shower enclosures, glass cabinets. Glass shelving, custom glass furniture, mirror walls, and wall mirrors.
• What types of installation do you offer? Many types of glass and mirror projects require professional installation. The contractor should have extensive experience in the type of installation services you need.
• What types of glass and mirrors do you offer? This question could include specific brands, types of glass and mirrors, etching, frosting, or tints.

A quality contractor should show you samples or photos of the products they use and past projects. These can help you to decide whether this glass and mirror company is the right choice.

Do you need a custom-cut piece of glass or mirror? Contact Monterey Glass Specialists for more information.