In Montana, residents can purchase and install certain types of flooring without hiring a contractor. For many other floors, the experience of a professional installer is beneficial, mainly because of the tools and techniques required. Contractors will also help consumers estimate how much product is needed, as well as remove and/or prepare the existing floor, and clean up the workspace following the installation.
There are many Montana flooring contractors available for work by both commercial and residential customers. If you need to find a flooring contractor in Montana use this map to get their address, phone number, and driving directions. Call to find out what their operating hours are and whether or not they deal with hardwood, vinyl, laminate, carpet, tile, concrete, or epoxy. These contractors may provide a variety of flooring services such as installation, refinishing, sanding, cleaning, and repairing.
Registration with the Department of Labor and Industry in Montana is mandatory only if a contractor or subcontractor has employees. Those installers without employees can register too, although it is legally optional. Home owners should be careful when hiring a contractor by verifying licensing status, insurance, workers' compensation, and contact information, such as address and phone number.
By calling the Montana Construction Contractor Registration Unit at (406) 444-7734, residents can find out whether or not a particular contractor is registered.
Montana has a series of recommendations for choosing an installer in the Office of Consumer Protection and the Department of Justice. Obtaining several bids from different contractors and comparing them will give home owners a chance to understand more about what the installation entails. No part of any contract or bid should be blank and every item needs to be clearly represented, including all materials, time frame, and scheduling of payment.
Even though a deposit is considered normal in some cases, the Department of Justice warns against making a payment of advance fees. Plus, the final payment is always made after the consumer has approved of the completed work. To file a complaint or learn more about previously filed complaints, residents can check with the Office of Consumer Protection.
According to the Montana Department of Justice, door to door salespeople claiming discounts for leftover materials are probably not legitimate. Businesses that only accept cash, operate in unmarked vehicles, and refuse to provide a written estimate are warning signs for possible scams. Consumers can avoid being the victim of a fraud by speaking with at least three references or a contractor's most recent customers.
It is important for a home owner to inquire about the reputation of an installer since a number of complaints have been issued concerning lack of availability, insufficient follow up, and unfair practices. Generally, trade associations and stores that feature hardware, building supplies, and home improvement are good resources and will refer quality contractors to a resident. Often, they have worked with a majority of them in the area, yet it is still necessary for consumers to review each aspect of a contract and flooring installation in detail.
The climate in Montana varies, depending on the region, and the western part of the state is usually milder than the east, as both are separated by the Continental Divide. When the temperatures and humidity levels change, some floors might expand or contract, a characteristic of hardwood. Maintaining a housing temperature that is consistent with the manufacturer's specifications, along with correct installation procedures, will lower the risk of movement.