Expert: Dan Griffin - 3/29/2010

Question
I have a question in my underground basement which i want changed into a walkout door. I know it requires regrading, and a specialty skill set or company but I can't find a contractor who specializes in this type of work. I am finding general contractors and I'm not convinced they know what is involved.  Can you help me understand what type of company/contractor i need to be researching?

thanks
therese

Answer
therese,  I don't know that any contractor could limit their scope of work to just this type work.  Any good residential builder will have the skill set to perform the  project.  They may well subcontract the digging, the concrete cutting, the door setting, and the final landscaping rather than using their own people.  The advantage would be that you deal with one contractor and he has the contacts and ability to coordinate the project.

The term "general contractor" usually implies a commercial contractor and most of them do larger work.  It doesn't hurt to contact them, but don't be surprised if they send you elsewhere.  The big issues will be waterproofing, drainage, and, of course, finished look.