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Congratulation to Al Schick Construction on Celebrating Their 20th Anniversary


CONGRATULATIONS, AL SCHICK CONSTRUCTION - CELEBRATING 20 YEARS OF TRUSTWORTHY BUSINESS PRACTICES IN REGINA 

This latest article celebrates and recognizes Al Schick Construction, Trusted Regina Contractor, and Regina residential renovation pros. as they celebrate 20 years in business! 

'A Regina General Contractor You Can Trust

AL SCHICK CONSTRUCTION CELEBRATES 20 YEARS!  


Congratulations to Al Schick Construction on celebrating 20 years!  The business has been operating since 2003, and he runs a well-established local family-owned and operated Trusted Regina renovation company. Led by Al Schick, who has extensive experience in renovations and project management, the company has built a stellar reputation in Regina.




A HISTORY OF EXCELLENCE AS STANDARD


Al Schick's expertise in construction has been passed down to his son, Les Schick, who has been involved in the business since his teenage years. This family connection ensures a strong commitment to quality workmanship and customer satisfaction.


One of the distinguishing features of Al & Les Schick is their personalized approach to each client. Unlike larger companies, they take the time to get to know their customers personally and prioritize their wants and needs. They aim to bring their client’s visions to life and provide personable, friendly, trustworthy, and professional service.


I would like to thank all of my current and past customers for their business and support, which enabled us to remain in business for 20 years and counting. I would also like to thank my team of past and current employees, including my son Les, for their hard work and attention to detail, because without good people, you can’t do good work. “ Al Schick

The company specializes in various residential and commercial projects in Regina, including interior and exterior renovations. They handle everything from office renovations to large full-scale renos and additions. Whether planning a project for your home or business, requiring insurance work, or needing professional project management services, Al Schick Construction is dedicated to delivering top-notch results.


Their clients say it best!

 “Al is first class all the way! We had a basement renovation completed by Al and an extremely complicated garage added to our home. I would give a 10 out of 10 rating on every aspect of his integrity and workmanship. I have sent many friends to Al and will continue to do so. If I ever need work done in the future, I will pick up the phone, call Al and never even question his bill. I truly do Trust him to do a great job” -Bob R.


A word from Trusted Sara about her personal experience with Al Schick Construction.


" I was told about Al Schick within weeks of arriving in Regina and looking for good, trustworthy contractors. He was quite hard to track down initially,  as he had no website or social media, I eventually got his card from another client in the home building industry and gave him a call. He was friendly on the phone and seemed intrigued about the concept. He agreed to meet me for coffee to learn more but did warn me that he doesn't advertise. Our meeting went really well, he struck me as a warm, humble and friendly man who clearly cares about his customers. He talked about how important it was to him that his customers were happy with the work that was done, and how he was lucky to be doing what he loved for a living. To this day I am grateful that the only place he ever advertised is Trusted Regina, and that he extended his trust to me, he is a perfect example of the kind of businesses I love working with and promoting. In 2022 I met Les Schick for the first time. We met lots and worked together on website content, so I got to know him well which has been great. Les is a chip off the old block and it is great to see a long-term succession plan in place. Regina is lucky to have such a wonderful family construction business as an option, and I can't recommend Al Schick Construction highly enough.    - Sara Wheelwright, Trusted Regina founder.  

With their years of experience, dedication to quality, and trusted reputation, Al Schick Construction is a Regina general contractor you can trust. Congratulations, Al & Les, once again, on reaching this significant milestone!



Thank you for TRUSTING us, Al and Les. You have provided ten years of AMAZING service to the people of Regina & area as a Trusted Regina Partner in Regina Contractors and Regina Renovations categories. We are proud to support Al Schick Construction, and we are thrilled to share that they have diligently upheld the 5 TRUSTED GUARANTEES of service and NEVER had a complaint. 




Trusted Regina Drywall Contractors Superior Drywall Explain The 6 Benefits Of Hiring Professional Drywallers'

 In this article, we  explain why you should hire a professional drywall company for your next renovation project!



Finishing building something is a long process and it’s exciting as the end of the project nears. Capping it all off with a quality drywall installation will make or break the overall project.

It may be tempting to save some bucks and install your own drywall. But given the complexity of the process, it’s often wise to look to a  to get it done right. There are many reasons to trust an experienced drywaller.

From the appearance of the finished product to the durability of the board mounting, the quality of the installation is important. You don’t want to ruin the time and money you have invested in your project with a subpar drywall job. Here are six benefits of hiring a professional to complete your drywall installation.

1. No Investment in Drywall Tools

High-quality drywall tools can be a big investment. And knowing which to use and the proper technique is a skill a pro has perfected over time. Saving yourself the time and money to purchase these tools is a great reason to hire a professional.

Your drywall installer will be prepared to provide everything that’s needed to complete the job. Even the most basic jobs require specialized drywall saws and measuring tools. And you may need additional supplies if your job is more complicated. Hiring someone that has access to everything they need to complete the job well takes the guesswork out of it for you.

Installing drywall in high or tough to reach places is extremely challenging and can be dangerous. Professionals have tools like drywall board lifts to make sure the job is completed correctly and safely. They also have the supplies and methods in place to contain drywall dust and ensure cleanliness.

2. Drywall Installation Experience is Valuable

Installing drywall is a technique with a huge learning curve. Save yourself the time and frustration of trying to figure out how to install it on your own. Professionals have often gone through years of trial and error. And you can benefit from their experience.

Professional drywallers know the best techniques for hanging sheets straight so they are perfectly aligned. They also know how best methods to anchor it securely to various types of wall materials. You would be investing a lot of your time researching these methods rather than working to complete your drywall installation.

3. Contractors Are More Efficient

Household projects have a tendency to drag on. Distractions and busy schedules lead to delays. And work seems never to get completed. Hiring a professional can eliminate the stress of a never-ending project.

Professionals will take care of all of your project prep work. They will handle the measuring and steps to get the surface ready for installing the boards. You won’t have to worry about the tedious tasks of gathering supplies. Or the time-consuming trips back and forth to the home improvement store.

Drywall installers work under a contract. You can work together to agree on an appropriate time frame with them to complete your job. And you can set milestones in a contract for large jobs to make sure the work gets completed at a steady pace. Pros want to complete a job and get paid on time just as much as you want the work done quickly.

Professional contractors often work in teams. This makes them much more efficient than an individual. And if they have worked together often, they often have their installation method down to a surprisingly quick science.

4. You’ll Get Sturdy and Long-Lasting Results

With the investment you are making in your drywall, you want the job done proficiently. You don’t want to be making repairs or replacing sheets because of poor installation. A professional can guarantee a sturdy install that will stand the test of time.

Mounting drywall incorrectly can lead to big problems. It can cause the weakening of the entire wall. And it will leave the area unstable and likely to suffer major damage from even normal wear and tear. Poorly installed drywall can be damaged by even minor things like hanging photo frames.

Using the correct technique is important for long-term stability. Professionals are aware of the best techniques to attach drywall boards to tough surfaces like concrete. And know which anchors or screws will work best for each job. This ensures that you will have a solid surface that will stay adhered to the wall.

5. Drywall Pros Create A Seamless Look

The most important part of any drywall installation is finishing. Creating a smooth and seamless wall can be a tough task. You want your walls to look even, polished, and professionally done.

Drywall boards are made to fit together at the edges. But inevitably, a small crack will remain visible between each pair of neighbouring boards. A good drywall installer has a solid seam filling technique to eliminate this. These seams must be taped and covered with a thin layer of drywall mud using a precise method to make them invisible.

The composite materials that make up drywall boards give them a rough texture. This has to be eliminated to ensure a flawless-looking paint job. Your drywall installer will make sure your boards are perfectly prepped.

Any nicks or dents in the wall will be carefully and expertly repaired. Your professional will have a system to make sure the full surface is checked. They will sand the entire wall to a smooth surface. They will also take care of removing dust from the boards, so they are ready to be primed and painted.

6. Drywall Pros Guarantee Their Work

Having a relationship with a drywall professional is helpful long term. One of the most important reasons to hire an installer is that they usually guarantee their work. They also may be willing to give you a good deal should you damage the wall and need repairs on the wall. And they will be more likely to work with you if you have another project in the future.

Opting to do it yourself can be a good way to save money on a project. But cutting corners on drywall can ruin the look of an entire room. And leave your entire project looking sloppy and unprofessional.

Installing drywall is more complicated than it seems. And it’s important to be done correctly for both aesthetic and structural reasons. Making it worth the expense to trust the expertise of a professional.  


Al Schick Construction Trusted Regina Contractor and Renovators tip on hiring a Contractor

If it's time to finally finish that basement or the year you refresh that tired old bathroom, maybe your office could use a redesign and some upgrades. Whether you are planning a renovation to your home or office space, AL SCHICK CONSTRUCTION can help!  They specialize in residential and commercial projects including interior and exterior renovations....from offices to old character and newly built homes. If you are planning a project or a renovation on a specific area of your home or business, look to the experts at AL SCHICK Construction to get the job done right! AL SCHICK CONSTRUCTION a TRUSTED REGINA CONTRACTOR and Renovation Expert

Al's tip on hiring a Contractor


Adding a room, renovating a basement, or doing some much-needed repairs? Finding a good contractor is important — a home improvement project gone wrong can cost you. A good ad isn’t proof a contractor does quality work. Find out for yourself. Check with friends, neighbours, or co-workers who’ve had improvement work done, and check out a contractor’s reputation on online review sites you trust( Like Trusted Regina ). Get written estimates from several firms, keeping in mind the lowest bidder may not be the best choice. Also important: know the signs of a scam.

Finding a Contractor

Depending on how big or complex a project is, you might hire a:

  • general contractor, who manages all aspects of a project, including hiring and supervising subcontractors, getting building permits, and scheduling inspections
  • specialty contractor, who installs particular products like cabinets and bathroom fixtures
  • architect, who designs homes, additions, and major renovations — especially ones involving structural changes
  • designer or design/build contractor, who provides both services

 

Do Your Research

Check with friends, neighbours, or co-workers who’ve used a contractor

If you can, take a look at the work done and ask about their experience.

Look at sites you trust that post ratings and reviews

Do people seem to have similar experiences, good or bad? You also can check out a contractor’s online reputation by searching for the company’s name with words like “scam,” “rip-off,” or “complaint.”


Find out how long they’ve been in business

Look for an established company whose record and reputation you can check out.

Check for qualifications, like licensing

Many states, but not all, require contractors to be licensed and/or bonded. Check with your local building department or consumer protection agency to find out about licensing requirements in your area. Licensing can range from simple registration to a detailed qualification process. If your state or locality has licensing laws, make sure the contractor’s license is current.

Before You Hire a Contractor

Get Estimates

Once you’ve narrowed your options, get written estimates from several firms. Don’t automatically choose the lowest bidder. Ask for an explanation to see if there’s a reason for the difference in price.

Ask Questions

How many projects like mine have you completed in the last year?

Ask for a list so you can see how familiar the contractor is with your type of project.

Will my project require a permit?

Most states and localities require permits for building projects, even for simple jobs like decks. A competent contractor will get all the necessary permits before starting work on your project. You may want to choose a contractor familiar with the permitting process in your county, city, or town.

May I have a list of references?

A contractor should be able to give you the names, addresses, and phone numbers of at least three clients with projects like yours. Ask each client how long ago the project was and whether it was completed on time. Was the client satisfied? Were there any unexpected costs? Did workers show up on time and clean up after finishing the job? You also could tell the contractor that you’d like to visit jobs in progress.

What types of insurance do you carry?

Contractors should have:

  • personal liability
  • worker’s compensation
  • property damage coverage

Ask for copies of insurance certificates, and make sure they’re current, or you could be held liable for any injuries and damages that occur during the project.

Will you be using subcontractors on this project?

If so, make sure the subcontractors have current insurance coverage and licenses, too, if required.

To find builders, remodelers, and related providers in your area that are members of the National Association of Home Builders, visit nahb.org. To find detailed information about a builder, service provider, or remodeler in your area, contact your local home builders association.

Understand Your Payment Options

Don’t pay cash

For smaller projects, you can pay by check or credit card. Many people finance larger projects.

Try to limit your down payment

Some state laws limit the amount of money a contractor can request as a down payment. 

Try to make payments during the project contingent upon completion of defined amounts of work

This way, if the work isn’t going according to schedule, the payments to your contractor also are delayed.

Get a Written Contract

Contract requirements vary by state. Even if your state doesn’t require a written agreement, ask for one. It should be clear and concise and include the who, what, where, when, and cost of your project. Before you sign a contract, make sure it includes:

  • the contractor’s name, address, phone, and license number (if required)
  • an estimated start and completion date
  • the payment schedule for the contractor, subcontractors, and suppliers
  • the contractor’s obligation to get all necessary permits
  • how change orders are handled. A change order is a written authorization to the contractor to make a change or addition to the work described in the original contract and could affect the project’s cost and schedule.
  • a detailed list of all materials including each product’s colour, model, size, and brand. If some materials will be chosen later, the contract should say who’s responsible for choosing each item and how much money is budgeted for it (this is also known as the “allowance”).
  • information about warranties covering materials and workmanship, with names and addresses of who is honouring them — the contractor, distributor, or manufacturer. The length of the warranty period and any limitations also should be spelled out.
  • what the contractor will and won’t do. For example, is site clean-up and trash hauling included in the price? Ask for a "broom clause" that makes the contractor responsible for all clean-up work, including spills and stains.
  • any promises made during conversations or calls. If they don’t remember, you may be out of luck — or charged extra.
  • a written statement of your right to cancel the contract within three business days if you signed it in your home or at a location other than the seller’s permanent place of business.


 

Al Schick Construction Trusted Regina Contractor and Renovation Expert tip on Hiring a Professional Contractor

If it's time to finally finish that basement or the year you refresh that tired old bathroom, maybe your office could use a redesign and some upgrades. Whether you are planning a renovation to your home or office space, AL SCHICK CONSTRUCTION can help!  They specialize in residential and commercial projects including interior and exterior renovations....from offices to old character and newly built homes. If you are planning a project or a renovation on a specific area of your home or business, look to the experts at AL SCHICK Construction to get the job done right! AL SCHICK CONSTRUCTION a TRUSTED REGINA CONTRACTOR and Renovation Expert

Here Al Tip on Hiring a Professional Contractor In Regina 

Before you consider hiring a contractor to complete repairs, regular maintenance or home renovations, make sure you have a clear idea of what you want to accomplish. Depending on the type of work want to be done, you may need to contact a contractor with specialized expertise. Ask lots of questions, research your options, and make sure all contractual obligations and payment terms are included in a signed contract. The following tips can help you when looking to hire a reputable professional. 

Research your options and consider contacting your local renovation and/or home builder associations for a list of professional service providers.

Get quotes from more than one renovator or service provider. This will help you compare prices and levels of customer service; be sure to discuss your project expectations, timelines, costs and possible interruption factors.

Ask questions about the company and the work to be completed, including:

  • How long have you been in business?
  • What is your area of expertise?
  • Will you use your own staff for subcontractors to complete the work?
  • What permits are required for the project?
  • How much time will you spend supervising the site?
  • How do you manage health and safety concerns on the site?
  • What level of insurance coverage do you have?
  • Do a background check and consider contacting the following agencies before selecting a service provider:

Information Services Corporation Branch (306-787-2962) to make sure the business is registered as a legal entity in Sk.

Workersʼ Compensation Board (306-787-4370) to make sure the company carries workersʼ compensation coverage. Without coverage, you may be liable for injuries that occur while staff are completing work in your home;

Better Business Bureau (306-352-7601) to see if any complaints have been registered against the company; 

Consumer Protection Branch (1-877-889-5550) to confirm your contractorʼs direct seller's license, if applicable. Licensed contractors are required to be bonded, which will provide you with some financial compensation in the event that problems arise during construction.

  • Ask about warrant options– warranty coverage differs from company to company, make sure you understand what type or warranty is included and what it covers.
  • Discuss payment options and get a cost break down of what is included in your estimate. Depending on whether your contractor offers a “fixed-price” or a “cost-plus” quote, different materials, labour and overhead will be included in the quoted price or charged in addition to the quoted price. Typical payment plans can require a 10 percent down payment and the rest in installments.
  • Get a contract – a detailed written contract between you and the service provider is essential to any renovation or home repair project. All details should be included in writing, including start/finish dates, warranties on work and/or materials and the total project costs and payment plans. Never hire a renovator or service provider that refuses to provide a written contract.

Ask for and check references of past customers that had similar projects done with the contractor over the last two years. When checking references, you may wish to ask for the following information:

  • If the project was completed on time;
  • If they were happy with the results;
  • If they were satisfied with the level of communication and customer service during and after the project was completed;
  • If there were any cost over-runs;
  • If employees left the site satisfactorily cleaned up after the home improvement project was finished.

Never hire a contractor that only accepts cash, offers unreasonable or extremely low prices compared to others, does not offer a written contract, and does not have an official address. These are warning signs of unethical business practices and can be an indication of future problems. Do not feel pressured to sign into a quick agreement – before making a decision, seek written quotes from at least two other contractors or service providers.

The Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC) have a simple checklist of steps that can help you choose the right contractor for any home remodelling project. You can view the checklist online by visiting www.cmhc.ca and searching “Renovation Checklist.” If your project is very large and involves thousands of dollars it may be wise to obtain a lawyer to help you with the contract.

 






 AL SCHICK CONSTRUCTION a TRUSTED REGINA CONTRACTOR and Renovation Expert



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