Fallbrook Bath & Kitchen: quality craftsmanship, efficient project management

Fallbrook Bath & Kitchen Co, Inc. has been remodeling homes locally for 10 years and owner Tony Raia takes pride in the company’s top-notch craftsmanship and impeccable service.

As a general contractor with a business previously located in Laguna Niguel, Raia relocated his home and business in 2003, after he and his wife Carol ended up liking the atmosphere of Fallbrook.

Remodeling a “working” room, such as a kitchen or bath, definitely brings some adjustments while the project is being completed. Since kitchen and bath remodels usually take Raia four weeks to accomplish, he tries to help alleviate the inconveniences of the temporary absence of the facilities. He has sometimes provided a temporary sink while the countertops are being installed, in consideration of his clients.

Organization and planning are crucial to a successful remodel. Raia said he will not start the project until the cabinets are “en route,” and the other materials have been obtained. Raia also prides himself on trying to keep the workspace as clean as possible, since remodeling can create dust.

Fallbrook Bath & Kitchen is a general contracting firm, and therefore rarely needs to use subcontractors. From the project design phase, through the installation phase, Raia’s company provides plumbing, electrical, carpentry, tile and stonework, as well as cabinet installation, lighting, and refinishing. There are certain items that Raia insists be constructed a specific way, such as a shower pan. Raia says that he does not use prefabricated pans or fiberglass tubs, and has a certain standard for other elements in the bath as well. Instead of installing “greenboard” or “Hardibacker,” he uses a specific method that involves cement, which is widely used in Europe and by other meticulous contractors in the industry.

“We like to work on bathrooms that end up looking like spa-baths.” said Raia.

When asked about his relationships with clients, Raia said, “You must treat people in the right way. They have invited you into their home. Every prospective client that I meet, I ask to call my referral list.”

Whether returning a call, writing up an estimate, or arriving at the jobsite, punctuality is very important to Raia. Many of his clients end up contacting him for other projects such as windows, doors, flooring, entertainment centers, and fireplace makeovers.

Fallbrook Bath & Kitchen is in the process of a transition, with Raia planning on handing over the reins to his son-in-law, Matthew Bellafaire. Bellafaire has worked with Raia for 13 years, and has now become a partner in Raia’s business.

“I wanted to keep my business in the family; throughout the next three to five years cease with the physical aspect of the business, yet still continue to be involved with the business through sales and marketing. I miss golf!” said Raia.

When asked what his favorite material to work with was, Raia replied he favors good quality travertine, marble and porcelain.

As far as recommendations to someone who is considering remodeling their kitchen or bath, Raia said to “make sure that you work with someone who has a lot of experience in those rooms,” adding that if a design is not planned correctly, the result is not efficient.

“A good kitchen layout is crucial,” he said. “So is making sure that you have plenty of room for the new model of sink that you desire, in the bathroom.”

Fallbrook Bath & Kitchen serves North San Diego, Southwest Riverside, and South Orange counties. For more information, visit http://www.tonyraia.com, email [email protected] or call (760) 668-4653.