Ask a Professional - October 2007

I’m thinking about using one of those Box Store contractors, what’s the difference?

    Of course when we mention box store contractors were talking about Home Depot, Lowe’s or Home Depots upper line “Expo Design Center”. I’m only going to talk about on the average cases, so here we go. Based on a Consumers Reports survey although many consumers were satisfied with the contractors affiliated with these stores, independent contractors either referred or with high credentials scored higher on quality, speed and customer service. About 40% of the consumers surveyed reported a problem with contractors from the big box stores vs. less then 30% from contractors they hired themselves, from the manufactures or just local stores. When things went wrong, home center stores were less likely then the other contractors to solve the problems. This survey received similar marks across the board weather it be kitchen remodeling or just replacing a window.