Margis construction excavated the old interlocking in our backyard and built us a concrete walkway, patio, retaining wall and a pad for garbage bins.
In the past we have had a few bad experiences with contractors leaving the job half way, or just executing the work inadequately. So, for a job this big we decided to use homestars, as the unbiased reviews and pictures are very helpful. We received quotes from about 25+ contractors, and in the end, we decided to go ahead with Tiago from Margis Construction.
This decision was based upon the first meet, quality of work and the many positive reviews on homestars. We were initially interested in the patterned concrete finish (expensive option). Tiago was honest about its upkeep and he didn’t try to push this on us. Based on our lifestyle and needs, he advised us to go with the broom/smooth finish.
In deciding which contractor to go with, it was important for us to see the previous work. We wanted to see how the concrete aged, and whether the portfolio provided online was in fact theirs. Tiago was quick in providing numerous addresses, where we were able to see the work in person (from distance).
Once we decided to work with Tiago, he was very detailed about the expected next steps, the tentative start and finish date.
Tiago’s team was friendly and approachable. They started work early in the morning and, always cleaned up before leaving for the day. If I brought any concerns along the way (there were a few), the team never ignored them, they addressed these concerns right away.
After the completion of the work, we brought to Tiago’s attention, areas that needed some touch ups/rework, he took care of these right away. It’s now been over a month and even to this day if I have any concerns or questions, Tiago is always there. In the past we’ve had contractors completely vanish once the final payment was received. This has been a refreshing change.
We are very happy with Tiago and the team, they started the work on time, with professionalism, and it was completed ahead of the scheduled date. On a personal level, Tiago has been very helpful to us, he has gone out of his way and helped us where there was zero personal or contractual obligation to do so. Tiago is not driven by greed or the size of the job as some of the contractors we had met, he is personable and very kind. There are many anxieties associated with having work done in your home, and having a contractor like Tiago, really made this experience stress free.
We had met with larger (more years in the industry) companies, however due to the reasons stated above we took a chance on Margis construction and I couldn’t be happier
If you’re deciding between contractors, try to really listen to the answers the contractor provides, do not simply hire someone based on the years they have been in the industry or their fluff words. If you ask to see their previous work in person, and they hessite in providing this, go with another. Do your research, ask all the questions, and go see the work in person.
If there are any major changes to the concrete, I will update here.
- Approximate cost of services:
- $17,000.00