Due to the influx of eastern Europeans in our industry the skill levels have varied immensely as many claim to have years of experience but sadly do not. Eastern European labour is less expensive than local labour and many companies take a chance with a view to lowering their overheads and staffing costs. Whilst this may sound a viable option it can bring its own set of unique problems. The main two are credentials and communication.

It is very difficult to check someone's credentials when they have been living and working abroad for many years. It is vital to know exactly to what level a person has worked with stone as there are many channels and areas to work in. For example it is unlikely that someone who has worked in a quarry has the required skill set to cut and polish your granite worktops to the level you would expect. Masons are usually paid a higher wage then quarry workers.

If someone has lived and worked abroad for a number of years it is most likely that English is a 2nd language to them. How can you be sure that your requirements are going to be met fully?

At The Granite Guild we either recruit skilled stone masons who have authentic credentials that can be verified or we train them ourselves. We do this as we are only too aware that customers expectations are high and must be met. We also do this as our reputation could well be ruined or damaged by shoddy workmanship.

We will only employ fluent English speaking templaters and fitters as communication is vital when trying to understand customer requirements. We also have set policies and procedures in place where customers are required to sign each template so there are no surprises for anyone. Also any changes that are requested by a customer must be in writing and fully understood before implementation so we minimise delays and mistakes.

Please do not take a chance on ifs and hopefully's, employ a company that you feel fully satisfied with and that are capable of delivering you your dream worktops.