Don’t be fooled: what to check before hiring an installer
If you’re planning to hire a screw pile installer, make sure you know what to check – the wrong choice could cost you much more than expected. It’s not just a question of price, it’s a question of trust, of durability and compliance. The wrong choice can lead to delays, unexpected costs or even the need to redo the whole project. To avoid these costly scenarios, it’s best to know from the start what you need to check.
Questions a good installer should always ask before quoting
A professional installer will never give you a blind quote. He’ll take the time to ask the right questions to fully understand your project. If he doesn’t ask you any, that’s a red flag. Here’s what he should be looking for :
1. What type of structure would you like to install?
A garden shed does not require the same strength as a deck, porch or house. Without this information, the installer can’t determine the right model of piles or the number required.
3. What is the exact location of your project?
Access constraints, slopes or obstacles (trees, fences, buildings) can make installation more complex. Failure to inform yourself about these factors may result in delays or additional costs.
5. Is the project authorized by your municipality?
A good installer will remind you that some projects require permits. He or she may also check whether CCMC certification is required in your city to avoid rejection.
2. Do you have any idea of the type of soil on your site?
Sand, clay or rock have a direct influence on the depth, equipment and extensions required. A serious installer will take this into account to avoid unexpected costs.
4. Do you have plans, sketches or precise dimensions?
Even a hand-drawn sketch helps to understand the scope of the project. A professional will try to visualize the overall picture to establish a fair and coherent price.
ONE FORM FOR MULTIPLE ESTIMATES
There are several platforms dedicated solely to quotes for screw pile foundations. The best known is screwpilequotes.ca, but there are several others. Just make sure these platforms only recommend companies with certified installers or products.
On the Screw Piles Quotes platform, you can receive up to three free quotes from trusted installers in your area. This saves you time and effort, and gives you an overview of the market.
Common traps to avoid when choosing an installer
A good price doesn’t guarantee good service. Many companies use strategies that may seem advantageous at first, but quickly lead to complications or unforeseen costs. Here are the most common pitfalls to avoid.
A low price that explodes on site
Incomplete or unclear estimate
Some businesses offer a very low price without having taken the time to assess the actual ground conditions. This lack of precision can lead to price adjustments on site.
Rock, clay or sand require different approaches. If these factors are not included in the quote, you run the risk of additional costs for extensions, specialized equipment or unforeseen hours of work.
The false bargain
On the surface, the price seems unbeatable. In reality, it’s sometimes a strategy to win the contract, with the intention of adjusting the price after the fact. A reliable company will give you a clear quote, with any conditions that could alter the price well explained in advance.
Piles without certification and no warranty
Not all screw piles are created equal. Some companies use non-certified products to cut costs. In the long run, these savings can be very costly on your part.
Uncertified piles, often imported
CCMC (Canadian Construction Materials Centre) certification guarantees that the pile meets industry requirements. Without this certification, the city may refuse your foundation or demand proof that you don’t have.
The risk of having to redo everything
Non-compliant piles can rust prematurely, move in the ground or fail to support the intended load. In some cases, the only solution is to repeat the installation with certified products, at your own expense.
Absent or non-transparent customer service
The installer’s professionalism is not limited to the quality of the piles. The way he communicates before, during and after the work speaks volumes about his seriousness.
Difficult to reach or unclear answers
If the company takes several days to respond, gives vague answers or transfers you from one person to another, it’s a red flag. Good customer service is responsive and clear.
Deadlines not respected or poorly explained
An installer who gives you a vague deadline or postpones the work for no specific reason lacks rigor. A well-managed project starts with reliable planning.
Lack of transparency in documents
A less-than-detailed quote, an incomplete contract or the absence of a written guarantee are all signs that you’re better off choosing another professional.
IN SHORT: WHAT A GOOD INSTALLER SHOULD ALWAYS PROVIDE
A competitive price is not enough. A professional installer distinguishes himself by the quality of his support, the clarity of his documents, and the compliance of his materials. Here’s what you can expect.
A detailed, complete, and realistic quote
The quote should include the type of piles, estimated depth, possible additional costs, materials used, and warranties offered. If it’s not clear, you’re taking an unnecessary risk.
CCMC-certified piles
The installer must be able to provide proof that the piles comply with CCMC standards. It’s a protection for you and a guarantee of the company’s reliability.
Verifiable references and reviews
A good installer has nothing to hide. They can show you examples of recent projects or refer you to satisfied customers. A quick search for online reviews can also tell you a lot. If you don’t want to compare one by one, just visit our installer page to find certified experts in your area.
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