By Nancy Brumback, Contributing Writer
Business name: Valois Home Improvements
Address: Shrewsbury
Owner: Raymond Valois
Contact Information: 508-845-1107
www.valoishomeimprovements.com
What kind of work does Valois Home Improvements do?
“The majority of my work is smaller to mid-size remodeling projects with a lot of repair work, anything from rotted trim to siding repairs to replacement doors and windows. On the remodeling side, I do a lot of decks, kitchens, bathrooms and basements. My specialty is finish carpentry,” said Raymond Valois, who has owned his own contracting firm, Valois Home Improvements for 14 years.
“I don's do additions. I's a remodeling specialist, well-versed in dealing with the existing structure and trying to improve what's there. There's a lot more problem-solving in remodeling than in new construction.
“I am a very hands-on contractor; 99.9 percent of the time I will be there, often with a helper. I am not only the guy who shows up for the estimate, I's the guy who shows up for the work. I have kept my business model small and efficient.
“I work with electricians, plumbers, plasterers, a core group of subcontractors who work with me most of the time. They know as long as they treat me and my customers right, I will call them back.
“I have made my living on a lot of smaller jobs. Smaller jobs get me in the door, and I take them when I can. There are times during the busy season that I do have to pass up smaller jobs if I's too booked up. I hate to turn business away, but it's better to be upfront with someone if there is no way I can meet their timeframe.”
What geographic area do you cover??
“I have gone as far as Martha's Vineyard, Quincy, Milton, Chelmsford. Most jobs farther away usually involve someone I'se worked with before. I do a lot of work in Grafton, Shrewsbury, Westborough, Northborough and towns within the Blackstone Valley as well.”
How did you get into this business?
“I worked in Boston in advertising photography after college. As finances tightened up in advertising firms and the clients they worked for, guys who were just starting out did not get the photography jobs, and I started working for a handyman on the side. I's always been good at carpentry,” Valois said.
Eventually, he shifted from photography to contracting and set up his own firm.
“Coming from advertising, I view what I do from a business perspective. I enjoy the problem-solving that goes along with this job. Not every job is glamorous, but, every once in a while, I's given the opportunity to do something great, fun, and creative. That satisfies my creative side.”
His photography background is evident on the firm's website, www.valoishomeimprovements.com, showcasing the company's work.
What sets you apart from other contractors?
“What I do and how I do it. Customers tell me I's easy to deal with, that I explain everything–sometimes too much. I say what I do and I do what I say,” Valois said.
“I really do care about my work. The satisfaction of my customers is very important. I want them to be happy with me and the work I'se provided so they will hire me if they have another project and will recommend me to anyone they know.”
Editor's Note: The preceding is not an endorsement and is presented for informational purposes only.
