If you are thinking about remodeling your home or office, there are many things to consider. One of the biggest is “should I do it myself?” There is no easy answer to this question, but you can help yourself decide by considering the following questions:
1. Do I have the time?
Remodeling can take a considerable amount of time, even for the experts. Most of the time remodeling is actually more difficult than new construction. One of the reasons for this is that you have to prepare the existing components of your structure to blend in with the new.
2. Do I have the know-how?
Your remodeling project will likely require some specific skills to ensure a successful result. These can include carpentry, painting, drywall finishing, flooring, plumbing, electrical, concrete work, excavation, etc. You’ll want to carefully assess your abilities in the skills you’ll need for your own project.
3. Do I have the tools and equipment needed?
Since so many skills are involved, most property owners do not have the needed tools and equipment. If you can get the tools by purchasing, renting or borrowing them, do you have the skills to use them effectively and safely?
4. Do I have enough help?
Remodeling can be very labor intensive; two hands are often not enough. You can always use someone to help carry materials or equipment, or you might need skilled help in order to complete the job in a reasonable time. If you need help, will you have access to the kind of help you need, when you need it?
5. Am I physically able to do the work?
Remodeling is usually strenuous work, involving climbing ladders, working on scaffolds or heavy lifting. You’ll need to decide if you’re physically able to do that kind of work for the extended period your project may take.
6. Do I have a clear idea of what I am trying to accomplish?
Can you draw the necessary building plans, or will you need to get someone else to do this for you? You may need to hire an architect if your remodel is very complex. An architect can help with traffic flow and other factors that may arise when you change rooms, or move walls and doorways.
7. What is my budget?
You should make a careful estimate of all the costs of your project before any work is started. Calculate the costs of all materials, equipment rental, tools, labor, subcontractors etc. Don’t forget to add a budget for any unknowns or surprises that may be revealed later!
8. What kind of subcontractors am I going to need?
You will probably need some skilled subcontractors to perform specialized work that you can’t do. Do you have the time to deal with those subcontractors personally, and do you have the knowledge needed to negotiate with them? If you are unprepared in this area, it can cost you a lot later on.
You may decide when you’ve finished answering these tough questions that you’ll need some help. If you decide to hire a professional remodeling contractor, you should expect someone with years of experience in construction who can provide all the services listed above, including management of all the necessary subcontractors. Your contractor should take care of everything, and manage your project until it is completed in a timely and efficient manner.
Here’s how to find a good remodeling contractor:
1. Go to Repairfinders.com
On Repairfinders.com you will find only the best qualified professionals in your area. All it takes is a couple minutes of your time to find the right one that is best for you.
2. Check out references
Get previous customers’ opinion of the contractor and the work that was done. Talk to local vendors and suppliers to see if that contractor pays his or her bills.
3. Is the contractor local?
Does he or she have a local office, address or phone number? It’s easier to keep track of a local contractor; avoid hiring from out of town or state unless you thoroughly check them out.
4. Look at the contractor’s work
Make sure you look at previous projects or photos of completed work.
If you’re looking for someone who has roots locally and is likely to be around to stand behind the work done on your project, you might also find out if the contractor you’re considering is involved in the community or in non-profit organizations, or provides support for community projects.
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