What’s a Craftsman: Quality in General Contracting
Frank hired us a couple months ago to do several projects around his house, including installing some new windows and doors, replacing some bad siding, painting the exterior, and renovating his fireplace for a refreshed and modern look. He was gracious enough to leave us a five-star review on Google where he said that the one word he’d use to describe our work would be “craftsman.” Hearing Frank recognize the hard work and expertise that we pour into our renovations means so much to us. It’s no small thing in our industry to be looked at as a true craftsman, so we’re grateful to Frank for his kind words.
When it comes to home renovation and construction, not all contractors operate with the same standard of craftsmanship. Just like in any industry, the quality of work delivered varies widely. Some of you may be intimately aware of this reality, as many homeowners have experienced poor customer service, effort, or finish quality from general contractors. The difference between hiring a standard general contractor and a craftsman-quality one will drastically affect the process and outcome of your project. But what exactly sets a "craftsman" apart from a typical contractor, and does it really matter?
What Is a Craftsman-Quality General Contractor?
Reaching craftsman-quality takes years of experience and a deep sense of care that often can’t be taught. It goes beyond basic construction techniques and practices to deliver excellence in every aspect of a project, from timeliness to customer service and everything in between. A craftsman takes pride in their work and focuses on the quality, detail, and longevity of their projects. It requires a passion for design and construction that supersedes the financial aspect and carries a personal integrity that bleeds into the foundation of the work.
In contrast, your everyday general contractor can often be more concerned about their bottom dollar and efficiency for their own company’s sake. This sometimes means cutting corners or simply meeting industry standards instead of going above and beyond. We understand that there’s a place for this as well, when a project needs to be finished quickly for the customer or within a lower budget that requires entry-level materials, but there’s a definite difference in the finished product that can’t be avoided.
Attention to Detail
A meticulous attention to detail is one of the hallmarks of a premier renovation company. From the structural framework to the finishing touches, you’ll notice a dedicated eye for the little things. Crown moldings are aligned perfectly at 90-degrees and specific materials are used in particular situations. For example, a craftsman will inspect every 2x4 for twists and imperfections before building a wall. This may seem unnecessary, but twisted wood can cause problems for drywallers and painters that lead to issues like warped and uneven surfaces.
High-Quality Materials
Using the highest-quality materials isn’t always doable for some homeowners, but a craftsman contractor understands that materials directly impact the longevity, attraction, and functionality of a project. They possess the experience and knowledge to find solutions that fit your budget without compromising too much of the final result.
Inferior materials will cut initial costs, but they can lead to larger problems down the road, including faster wear and tear or even structural issues. The investment in quality can significantly reduce the need for costly future repairs and maintenance.
Skilled Expertise
A craftsman general contractor like HEX uses specialized experts for different parts of a project. Our team has decades of experience working on all kinds of projects, from challenging to unique and everything in between. Whether it's custom cabinetry or master plumbing that's needed, we work with skilled, licensed experts that regularly bring homeowner’s dreams to life.
By using highly skilled tradespeople for intricate tilework or other difficult projects, a craftsman contractor ensures that your home renovation is executed to the highest degree possible.
Smooth Project Management
Proper management is a skill that’s often overlooked within our industry. Some people think that the process doesn’t matter as long as the finished product is completed. With decades in this industry, we know that’s patently false. Comprehensive and transparent project management ensures clear communication between the homeowner and contractor. There are so many moving parts involved in renovations, from tight budgets to time constraints and design changes. A serious, professional general contractor has a trained team and trusted system that moves projects forward with confidence and clarity.
Minimizing surprises and delays with proper management produces savings and a priceless peace of mind. At HEX, we believe in keeping our clients fully informed every step of the way, so you always know what’s happening with your home.
HEX: Sacramento’s Craftsman Contractor
Sacramento and the surrounding region boasts so many different styles of homes. Our geography is so diverse and has led to such a display of creative properties and estates. We’ve had the honor and privilege of transforming so many homes around Davis, South Lake Tahoe, and even the Bay Area throughout the years. We deeply believe in quality workmanship that retains its value with timeless designs and durable materials.
If you’re ready to elevate your space and make it your own, reach out to us today for a free estimate. Take it from Frank and join him in experiencing the expert care and quality of a craftsman contractor.
