When a homeowner makes that momentous decision to remodel a kitchen or bathroom, the first step is to find a general contractor that offers expertise and attention to detail from start to finish. “We’re very well established,” says Johans Wartenbergh, owner of Custom Cuts Construction Inc. DBA American Kitchen and Bath. “We’re a small company, and we take great pride in our work.”

American Kitchen and Bath adopts a team approach to each project, and for the entire team the client always comes first. “Our goal is to make every customer 100 percent happy,” adds Mr. Wartenbergh. “That’s our priority.”

Every home remodeling project should begin with a great design. With this firmly in mind, American Kitchen and Bath has two in-house designers who work closely with each client to help them choose just the right materials, fixtures and colors. Once the design is established and the materials are selected, the project is scheduled so it can be completed on time and within budget.

American Kitchen and Bath’s skilled craftspeople are on the job daily. “We come in, do the work and then we’re out,” says Mr. Wartenbergh. “We’re dedicated to delivering a great product while simultaneously working faster than some companies who tend to use a lot of subcontractors.” Mr. Wartenbergh makes frequent visits to the sites, and each job has its own onsite project manager to supervise the work and act as a liaison to the customer.

Professionalism, quality craftsmanship, excellent communication and attention to detail are key ingredients for a positive remodeling experience. When considering a company for any kind of remodeling job, it’s extremely important to hire one that’s fully insured. “The first question people should ask is whether the employees are covered by workers’ compensation insurance,” says Johans Wartenbergh, owner of Custom Cuts Construction Inc. DBA American Kitchen and Bath. “Many contractors don’t carry it, which means the homeowner could be responsible for medical costs if an accident occurs. Be sure to find a legitimate contractor.”

It’s always a good idea to ask for references. Be sure to choose a company with extensive experience and a proven track record of customer satisfaction. Companies can try to win your business and trust with glowing claims of service and quality; however, it’s what their customers say that ultimately tells the story.

It’s a good idea to take into consideration the length of time a company has been in business, as well as the skill level of its employees. “We’re asked many times to look at projects that have been done by unlicensed or inexperienced contractors, and the workmanship is often unfinished or of poor quality,” says Mr. Wartenbergh. “The key is to hire someone who’s established, knowledgeable and reputable.” It’s perfectly reasonable to ask about the training and experience of the people who’ll be working in your home.
Any remodeling job has the potential to disrupt a household to a certain degree. Make sure the general contractor you hire will do everything in their power to avoid undue inconvenience or stress to the homeowners. This includes taking precautionary measures to minimize the impact on other areas of the house as well as ensuring there’s a thorough cleanup at the conclusion of each workday.

Q: Do you give free estimates?

A: Yes. We start with a phone consultation and then follow up with a visit to the prospective client’s home.

Q: How much does a remodel cost?

A: It all depends on the job and the materials selected. Before any project begins, we sit down with clients to discuss their wants and needs so we can establish budget guidelines.

Q: How long does a remodeling job typically take?

A: Again, it depends on the extent of the job. Crews are scheduled to show up on a daily basis. Our goal is to accomplish a job in a timely fashion, with minimal delay and disruption.

Q: Are you licensed and insured?

A: Absolutely. We’re fully covered by liability insurance to protect the homeowner, and we carry workers’ compensation insurance for all our employees.

Q: Do you use your own employees?

A: American Kitchen and Bath employees do most of the work. When we use subcontractors, we choose them carefully and make sure they’re also fully licensed and insured.

Q: Do you guarantee your work?

A: Absolutely. We offer a two-year warranty on all labor and supplied materials.