Hiring a drywall contractor is a big decision because their work directly impacts the appearance, durability, and overall finish of your walls and ceilings. A well-done job ensures smooth, long-lasting results, while poor workmanship can lead to costly repairs.
Before hiring someone, it’s important to find a contractor who is experienced, reliable, and transparent about costs, timelines, and materials. Without proper vetting, you risk delays, unexpected expenses, and subpar results.
But with so many options, the hiring process can feel overwhelming. The good news is that asking the right questions makes it much easier to identify a skilled professional.
To help, we’ve put together 10 key questions to ask before hiring drywall contractors Calgary. These will ensure you make the right choice and get the quality results you expect.
1. How Many Years of Experience Do You Have in Drywall Work?
Why to Ask This Question: Experience is one of the most important factors when hiring a drywall contractor. Someone with years of hands-on experience will be better at handling different types of drywall projects, identifying potential issues, and ensuring a high-quality finish. An experienced contractor is also more likely to work efficiently and complete the job on time.
What Answer You Should Hear: The contractor should have at least five years of experience working on drywall installation, finishing, and repairs. They should also be able to explain the types of projects they’ve worked on, whether it’s new home construction, renovations, or commercial buildings. The more experience they have with projects similar to yours, the better.
Tips for Asking This Question: If a contractor claims extensive experience, ask for details about past projects. A skilled professional should be able to describe the challenges they’ve faced and how they handled them. Be cautious of vague or hesitant answers. If they struggle to explain their background, they may not be as experienced as they claim.
2. Are You Licensed and Insured in Calgary?
Why to Ask This Question: Hiring a licensed and insured contractor protects you from legal and financial risks. A valid license means the contractor meets Calgary’s building standards, while insurance ensures that you won’t be held responsible for any accidents or damages that occur during the job. Without proper licensing and insurance, you could be left dealing with costly repairs or legal issues if something goes wrong.
What Answer You Should Hear: The contractor should confirm that they are fully licensed to operate in Calgary and carry both liability insurance and workers’ compensation coverage. They should also be willing to provide proof of these documents if requested. A professional contractor will have no issue showing you their credentials.
Tips for Asking This Question: Always ask for a copy of their license and insurance before signing a contract. If a contractor avoids the question or says insurance isn’t necessary, that’s a red flag. You can also verify their license by checking with local authorities in Calgary to make sure it’s valid.
3. Can You Provide References or Photos of Past Projects?
Why to Ask This Question: Seeing previous work and hearing from past clients helps you judge the quality of a contractor’s work. A drywall job should be smooth, seamless, and professionally finished. If a contractor has done good work in the past, they should have no problem sharing references or showing you pictures of their completed projects.
What Answer You Should Hear: A reputable contractor should have photos of past drywall projects or a portfolio showcasing their work. They should also be willing to give you contact information for past clients who can confirm the quality of their work. Some contractors may even offer to let you visit a site where they are currently working. If a contractor refuses to provide references or has no examples of past work, that’s a warning sign.
Tips for Asking This Question: Always follow up on references by calling past clients and asking about their experience. If possible, ask to see photos of completed drywall projects similar to yours. Checking online reviews on platforms like Google and the Better Business Bureau (BBB) can also help you get a sense of a contractor’s reputation.
4. What’s Included in Your Estimate? Are There Any Hidden Costs?
Why to Ask This Question: A detailed estimate helps you understand exactly what you’re paying for and prevents unexpected costs. Some contractors give low initial quotes but later add extra charges for materials, labor, or additional services. Asking this question ensures there are no surprises once the project starts.
What Answer You Should Hear: The contractor should provide a written estimate that includes labor costs, materials, additional services such as priming or painting, and any cleanup or disposal fees. They should also be upfront about any potential extra charges if unexpected issues arise, such as hidden wall damage or additional repairs. A professional contractor will explain the breakdown of costs and won’t hesitate to clarify what’s included in the price.
Tips for Asking This Question: Ask for a written estimate and review it carefully before signing anything. If anything seems unclear, ask the contractor to explain it in detail. Be cautious of contractors who only give verbal estimates or avoid discussing potential extra costs. A trustworthy contractor will be transparent about pricing.
5. How Long Will the Project Take, and What Could Cause Delays?
Why to Ask This Question: Understanding the project timeline helps you plan around the work and ensures that the contractor can complete the job within a reasonable timeframe. Delays can be frustrating and costly, especially if drywall installation is part of a larger renovation. Asking about possible delays also gives you insight into how well the contractor manages their schedule.
What Answer You Should Hear: The contractor should provide a realistic estimate of how long the project will take, including the start and completion dates. They should also explain any factors that could cause delays, such as material shortages, unexpected wall damage, or scheduling conflicts. A professional contractor will be upfront about their availability and will communicate any potential delays before they become an issue.
Tips for Asking This Question: Request a written timeline in the contract to ensure both parties agree on the expected completion date. Ask if they are working on other projects at the same time, as this could affect their availability. Be cautious of contractors who promise to finish the job too quickly, as rushing the work can lead to poor quality.
6. Do You Supply the Materials, or Should I Purchase Them?
Why to Ask This Question: Not all drywall contractors supply materials, and assuming they do can lead to confusion, delays, and unexpected costs. Some contractors include everything in their estimate, while others require you to buy materials separately. Knowing this in advance helps you budget and plan accordingly.
What Answer You Should Hear: A professional contractor should clearly state whether they provide materials or if you’ll need to purchase them. If they supply materials, they should specify the quality and brand they use. If you’re responsible for buying them, they should provide a detailed list so you don’t end up with the wrong items. Remember, transparency is key, there should be no guesswork involved.
Tips for Asking This Question: If the contractor provides materials, ask if there are options in terms of quality. If you need to supply them, make sure you get a full list upfront. Also, clarify whether delivery is included or if you’ll need to arrange transportation. Avoid contractors who leave this unclear, as last-minute material runs can cause unnecessary stress.
7. What Level of Drywall Finish Do You Recommend for My Project?
Why to Ask This Question: Not all drywall jobs are the same, and the finish level determines the final look of your walls. Some areas, like garages, may only need a basic finish, while high-visibility spaces require a smoother, more polished look. Without the right finish, you could end up with walls that look rough or unpolished.
What Answer You Should Hear: An experienced contractor should explain the five levels of drywall finish and recommend the best one for your project. For most homes, Level 3 or 4 is sufficient, while Level 5 is ideal for bright rooms with glossy paint. If they suggest a finish without explaining why, that’s a red flag. A good contractor will help you choose the right level based on your needs and budget.
Tips for Asking This Question: If you’re unfamiliar with finish levels, ask for examples or photos of past work. A trustworthy contractor should be able to show you what each level looks like and explain how it will affect the final appearance of your walls. If they brush off your question or say “it doesn’t matter,” they may not be focused on quality.
8. How Do You Handle Unexpected Issues Like Hidden Wall Damage?
Why to Ask This Question: It’s common for drywall contractors to uncover hidden problems like water damage, framing issues, or electrical concerns once they remove old drywall or start a new installation. The way they handle these surprises can mean the difference between a smooth process and a nightmare renovation.
What Answer You Should Hear: A responsible contractor will inspect the area before starting and let you know immediately if they discover any issues. They should explain how they handle additional repairs, whether they fix them in-house or work with other specialists. Most importantly, they should always provide an updated cost estimate before proceeding with extra work.
Tips for Asking This Question: Ask if they’ve encountered hidden issues in past projects and how they dealt with them. A good contractor should be able to share examples of common problems they’ve resolved. If they downplay the possibility of unexpected issues or don’t have a plan for dealing with them, proceed with caution.
9. Do You Offer a Warranty or Guarantee on Your Work?
Why to Ask This Question: Drywall should last for years without cracks, bubbling, or peeling. If something goes wrong due to poor installation, you don’t want to be left paying for repairs out of pocket. A warranty or guarantee shows that the contractor stands by their work and is willing to fix any issues that arise.
What Answer You Should Hear: A professional drywall contractor should offer a written warranty that covers workmanship for at least one year. They should specify what’s included, such as fixing cracks, peeling tape, or uneven seams. If they don’t offer a formal warranty, they should at least guarantee that they will correct any issues caused by their installation.
Tips for Asking This Question: Always get the warranty in writing, verbal promises mean nothing if problems appear months later. If a contractor refuses to offer any kind of guarantee, that’s a major red flag. Quality professionals take pride in their work and are willing to stand behind it.
10. What Steps Do You Take to Ensure a Flawless Finish?
Why to Ask This Question: No one wants visible seams, uneven surfaces, or rough patches on their walls. A high-quality drywall job requires precision, patience, and attention to detail. Asking this question helps you understand the contractor’s process and how they achieve a smooth, professional finish.
What Answer You Should Hear: A skilled contractor should walk you through their process. This includes properly securing drywall panels, applying joint compound in thin, even layers, sanding between coats, and doing a final inspection to catch any imperfections. They should also mention using high-quality materials and tools to achieve the best results.
Tips for Asking This Question: Ask if they do a final walkthrough with the homeowner to check for any missed spots before completing the job. A professional should always be willing to make small touch-ups if needed. If they don’t have a clear process or seem rushed, their work may not meet your expectations.
Choosing the right drywall contractor doesn’t have to be stressful. Just ask the right questions, stay informed, and ensure you get quality results!
