Remodeling projects are a large undertaking, which can cause homeowners to stress about staying on budget, achieving the look they dream of, and ensuring their house is stable. A common question is if you need a contractor to remodel or if you can complete the process in a DIY fashion. Below are some reasons that you should hire a contractor for your remodeling project and how to choose the best contractor for your specific project.
Contractors Will Provide Expertise
The biggest benefit to having a contractor involved in your remodel is the knowledge they bring to the table. There are specific quirks and problems that occur in home projects that you don’t know about until you have worked on multiple projects. Contractors have to go through training and work on multiple builds before they become licensed contractors.
Many complex tasks come alongside a remodel, including, plumbing, electrical, and foundation work. All of these tasks have intricacies that only can be understood by someone in that industry. Hiring a contractor to remodel your home will save you time searching Google or YouTube for the answers.
DIY Projects Take Longer To Complete
Since many homeowners don’t have the expertise and training of a general contractor, DIY projects can take longer. This can be because of multiple factors including having to start over on certain projects. Working with a contractor will give you quicker access to materials, a schedule for work completion, and better motivation to get the job done.
Contractors also have to work with subcontractors and manufacturers. When you hire a contractor to remodel, you won’t have to stress about having these conversations yourself. The contractor will work with others and help them get your project completed on time.
Which Option Is More Cost-Effective?
While homeowners may assume that DIY is the cheaper option, you can actually save money when working with someone who will get the job done quickly. Because you may still be learning about how to install flooring or how to install a new faucet, you may end up causing problems or wasting materials that will cost more in the end.
When you think about the bigger picture, you may pay a little bit more at the start of your project when you hire a contractor to remodel, but since the work will be completed without cutting corners, the structural integrity and quality of your remodel will withstand wear for much longer.
Some small DIY projects may be cheaper in comparison to hiring a professional. Just keep in mind that you need to be precise and detail-oriented when remodeling or upgrading your home.
Obtaining Permits When You DIY
Adhering to local building codes and obtaining permits can be challenging for a DIY remodeler. Many permits need to be obtained to add an extension to your home, use certain exterior materials, etc. A contractor will know how to navigate these processes easily and what permits need to be obtained. If you forgo getting building permits, you may face legal costs down the road.
Limited Remodeling Experience Can Cause Stress
Taking on a remodeling project can be stressful. It disrupts daily functions in your home, puts pressure on people who live there, can be draining on relationships, etc. Remodeling in a DIY fashion takes longer than working with a contractor, so your family and pets are put out of their normal routine for much longer than necessary.
Limited experience also can cause stress when remodeling. If you don’t know how to complete a task, it can be frustrating to see that your efforts are not aligning with how you envisioned the final product to look. Hiring a contractor to remodel your home will take a large weight off your shoulders.
Skills And Traits To Look For In A Contractor
So you have decided to hire a contractor to remodel your home, but how do you know that they are a good fit for the job? There are many skills that are needed to work as a contractor, but some of the most important ones are ones that help the customer feel understood.
A general contractor should have good communication skills, not only will the customers they work for but also with city officials, manufacturers, and other suppliers. Good and clear communication ensures that your project is completed on time and in a high-quality manner.
Contractors should also have an eye for detail and keep the home tidy. These two skills go hand in hand, because if your home is left a mess after a day of work, the contractor and their team may not pay attention to the small details that will make your home look its best.
Other skills to look for in a contractor include,
- Licensing
- Agility
- Adaptability
- Quality craftsmanship
- Clear vision
- Focus
- Timeliness
