Recently, I posed the question of what holds people back from hiring a designer. Not surprisingly, cost is the outstanding issue. Its why – upon request – I do a variable pricing chart for my clients. This way they determine where they want to emphasize quality and where they can spend less to stay on budget.
Plumbing is the one place not to skimp.
Imagine this…
You’re ready for a nice, refreshing shower. You turn it on and the water comes out in a dribble. How much would you pay someone to fix it immediately?
Probably a lot!
Good, quality plumbing is critical to the success of any project. Yes, beautiful faucets and showerheads adorn bathrooms. But the parts you don’t see guarantee their performance. Therefore, I guide my clients to work with professional dealers for all their plumbing and hardware needs.
Let me explain.
It’s the insides that count.
Big box stores and on-line retail may carry name products, but the “better” price comes with lower quality. Think about department outlet stores that sell merchandise for less. You might get a cast-off that didn’t sell at the original store…but as we’ve learned…outlets are full of merchandise specifically made for outlet pricing.
When it comes to plumbing, name brands like Kohler and Delta may cost less on-line or at home-improvement stores. But again, you get what you pay for. While the item looks good on the outside, they charge less by substituting inner parts made of plastic instead of metal.
It’s why I suggest reputable dealers only. They work directly with manufacturers to get items built with metal parts (like brass) to work better and last longer. In addition, they support their products so if you have an issue, they’ll work with you to solve it.
Good service pays for itself.
Too often, people buy kits that contain “everything” they need. Sounds good, but just try to get a replacement if one or more parts are missing or defective. Also, an installation may require additional pieces not packaged in the kit. When this happens, the additional time and expense weighs on your patience and wallet. A local dealer is your best source to have everything you need the first time; and that it fits together properly.
Finally, local dealers know the answers to your questions and guide you to brands that best fit your needs.
A home project is only as good as the parts purchased and how well they’re installed. In working with local professionals, you support your community and get the best in products and services. Their reputation depends on it.
Shortcuts are tempting, but they cost more in the long run. While some clients don’t mind the higher cost of plumbing fixtures they want, I help my clients make smart choices that fit their needs and budgets.
And that means they get their refreshing shower when they want it!
Live easy,
~Jeanette
