After seeing a few projects done by Loc-Tite on my street this year, I decided to get a quote and see how much it would cost me to redo my current walkway (which I did myself 2/3 years ago) + expanding it towards the lawn.
I spoke with Foti a couple of times to confirm the pricing (his quote was very reasonable, compared to what I got from other places 2/3 years ago) and was able to sign the contract with everything he promised at our meet and greet. He was very accommodating and was able to meet me at work where we got the contract signed. (initial quote on Nov 4th and signed contract on Nov 9th).
Loc-Tite came out the following Monday, Nov 12th and started the first part of the project - dug up the area and filled it with gravel. Although Foti did mention that they will be starting the job the following week, I was still a little surprised they came since I requested and expected a phone call from them prior to their arrival (Luckily, my sister was home). I did get a chance to speak to Anthony the next morning when his crew came to pick up their equipment and he was able to pass my number along to the installers so that they can call me before showing up. SIDE NOTE: I also left Foti a Voicemail asking him if he knew when the installers would be coming...He called me back right away.
Brian called me the morning before he came to install the stonework on Nov 19th, and came back to complete the job on Nov 20th at 7am as he promised. He did a tremendous job, and checked with me periodically on his pattern layout and cutting (This was extremely thoughtful of him as he was constantly checking to see if i was happy with the results).
So the outcome? It looks great and I love it.
The only concern I have is the bricks facing the back of the house might become detach from the interlocking walkway. Brian said the grass should secure it in place but assured me that he'll come back with a piece of aluminium to secure the side for my peace of mind.
****Here's my thoughts about Loc-Tite****:
Prior to hiring Loc-Tite, I read all the reviews on homestars.com - the biggest issue I found from reading these was communication but everyone loves the end result. Also, When there's a complaint, Loc-tite would waste no time in fixing the issue - this only means they take ownership of their work. So I knew what i was getting into, but communication wasn't even a major issue for me during the whole experience (except for Nov 12th when they came to dig up the area, but like I said, my sister was home to assist so it was okay). I didn't expect them to know everyone's timelines, and when they didn't they told me so and I was okay with it (Foti promised to get the job done by November and especially before it gets too cold and they did) and when they said they would call or be at my house or work at a certain time, they were prompt and ontime. I didn't have to chase them down as many reviewers had to.
Aside from reading reviews online, I asked around as well (for quotes and such) and the feedback I got from a coworker who's friend is in the industry said Loc-Tite are "butchers". Based on this comment, I asked Foti to show me some previous work by Loc-Tite. Foti was able to provide me 3 addresses in my area that had work done 4/5 years ago. They look great - so instead of letting the comment deter me from Loc-Tite - I decided to trust my EYES, and from what I saw and what they did with my walkway - their work speaks for itself. I am happy with my decision.
I will update this review in the future to advise how their work holds up after a couple of years. :)
NEW UPDATE: When I got home from work on Nov 21st - as promised, the aluminium edging was installed to the exposed end of the walkway facing the back of the house. The only problem is the end is about 3 feet and the edging only covers 2 feet. However I trust Loc-Tite's judgement if that's all that is required then i'm sure it's fine - and since there is warranty on their work, i'm sure they will come out to fix it if that 1 foot of stone shifts out.
