Purchasing Balustrade Systems and Other Decorative Items:
Manufacturer vs. Dealer
by Larry Hutto When you are looking to build a new home or renovate your existing home, even the smallest detail can take on very large importance, up to and including deciding which architectural decorative elements such as capitals, columns, and balustrade systems are best for your home. The interior and exterior decor of your home is an extremely personal choice, so when looking to purchase architectural products, you want to ensure that you are buying long-lasting, well-made products that will create a home as beautiful as it is in your dreams. As you begin the process of researching vendors for the best balustrade, decorative capitals, and/or columns for your home, you will discover that you generally have two options: buying from a dealer or buying direct from a manufacturer. In each case, you?ll want to approach the company carefully and ask the appropriate questions before you make your final purchase. You want to ensure that you?re getting high-quality balustrade systems and other architectural products that will increase the beauty and value of your home. Buying from a Manufacturer When buying direct from a manufacturer of balustrade systems, decorative capitals and columns, you may save money on your purchase as the manufacturer may sell direct to homeowners without an additional markup. In addition, many manufacturers have established themselves as experts in their field. You can feel comfortable asking them in-depth questions, and you will likely receive detailed answers about subjects such as the materials used in the making of the products, as well as what is architecturally appropriate for your home. Buying a balustrade system and other architectural products direct from a manufacturer could save you time?very important during a tight construction schedule?as there is no need to wait for a third party to place the order, receive the order, and then deliver the order to you. Most importantly, many manufacturers have the ability to manufacture custom products to your specifications, satisfying special installation requirements. When you are researching manufacturers of capitals or balustrade systems, inquire if they do sell direct to homeowners. Some manufacturers may only work through dealers. In addition, find out if you can speak with previous customers and/or view samples of the company?s work, such as a home in your area that has the manufacturer?s balustrade systems, decorative capitals, and columns installed. Buying from a Dealer Purchasing a decorative capital, column, or balustrade system from a dealer allows you to select from a wide range of products and manufacturers all at once, including those that do not sell direct to consumers. Most dealers have a retail location that you can visit at which you can speak to someone in person, plus view a variety of decorative architectural product lines, from balustrade systems to columns, at the same time. First, find out if the balustrade systems, decorative capitals, or columns you are interested in are backed by a warranty. Most are?in fact, some manufacturers provide a lifetime limited warranty on these types of products. In addition, inquire as to what the dealer?s refund and return policies are if you are not satisfied or if the items arrive damaged, as well as how long it will take for you to receive a refund. Don?t forget to ask how long it will take to deliver your items after you have finalized your order, as well as whether or not they can be customized to your particular needs. Customer service is a key issue when working with a dealer of balustrade systems, decorative capitals, and columns. Ask questions to determine what types of services the dealer will provide before and after the sale. Will the dealer help you to pick out architecturally appropriate products for your home? Will the dealer show you a range of products in person, allowing you to touch and evaluate each item? Will you be able to call and receive help at any time during the construction process? When working with either a capital, column, and balustrade manufacturer or dealer, be sure to get detailed information regarding the delivery and installation of the products. In some cases, the shipper is not responsible for taking the product off the truck; that is the responsibility of the receiver. Just imagine trying to offload a 20 to 30 foot column that could weigh as much as 500 to 4,000 pounds, or a ton of balusters, newels, and railing, all by yourself. Get the delivery facts and details up front so you can prepare. Also, make sure you are very clear as to the parameters of the installation of the columns, capitals, or balustrade system. Review all the installation instructions carefully to determine if you are able to install the product yourself or if you want to hire a contractor. This is extremely important, as all manufacturers will void their warranty if their products are improperly installed. Furthermore, be sure you have all the tools and equipment necessary to complete the job. In some instances, heavy equipment may be needed, such as a crane to lift a large column into place. Preparation is the key to any successful installation project! Plus, ask the vendor if it has an installed sales program, if it has certified installers, or if the staff could recommend a reliable contractor if you have decided to not do the installation yourself. Finally, research the dealer?s experience in the field specific to products in which you are interested. Find out if the company has experience with custom work, if that is something your project requires. The dealer may have a product that can be ordered directly from a catalog, which can be delivered more quickly than a custom piece. Questions to Ask Following is an easy-to-use list of questions that you should ask any vendor of balustrade systems, decorative capitals, and columns. While most questions would be the same for either a manufacturer or dealer, some are specific and are noted as such. ? [For a dealer] Which manufacturers do you work with? ? [For a manufacturer] What materials do you use to make your products? ? [For a dealer] What materials are used by the companies you work with to make their balustrade systems, decorative capitals, and other ornamental products? ? [Both] What are the pros and cons of each material? ? Have your products/the products you sell undergone structural performance testing? How can I obtain a copy of the testing certification documents? ? Where or how can I preview a sample of the item before I finalize my purchase? ? Tell me about your company?s background, including how long you have been in business. ? Do you have references of previous customers that I can speak to regarding the installation of your products/the products that you sell? ? Are there any homes in my area that use your product/the products that you sell? ? What sort of customer service and technical support do you offer before, during, and after the purchase? ? What type of warranty do you or the manufacturer provide for your products/the products that you sell? If so, for how long and what does it cover? ? Where can I obtain a copy of the warranty? ? What are your return and refund policies? ? What are the steps I need to take should the product arrive damaged or if there is a product shortage? ? What is the process when ordering custom products? ? What resources do you provide that would help me decide which products are right for my home and will work best with what is already in place? ? Do you have information on building codes in my area with regard to the products I?m interested in? Are there national, state, and/or local codes that I must follow? ? How might I obtain a copy of the manufacturer?s Repair and Maintenance Guide for the products I purchase? Conclusion When purchasing balustrade systems and other architectural details for your home, you need to choose your vendor with care, whether you decide to work with a manufacturer or a dealer. Your home is a major investment, and you take pride in its appearance. The right manufacturer or dealer will help to ensure that any purchase you make is going to beautify your home, now and into the future. About the Author Larry Hutto has been President of Timeless Architectural Reproductions, Inc., since he founded the company with his wife Patty, Vice President, in August 1996. Prior to founding Timeless, Larry spent 26 years beautifying homes through his pool installation and patio resurfacing businesses. Currently, Larry oversees the design, production and quality control of Timeless?s product lines, including columns, decorative capitals, and baluster systems, and assists in sales. Timeless products are available across North America and can be purchased by calling Timeless directly or by contacting one of its dealers. For more information, please visit www.timelessarchitectural.com or call 1-800-665-4341. Company Name: Timeless Architectural Reproductions
Website: http://www.timelessarchitectural.com
Author: Larry Hutto
E-Mail: info@timelessarchitectural.com
Address: 2655 Northgate Avenue
City: Cumming
State: GA
Zip: 30041 | 
