As you plan your project, consider these tips on hiring contractors, getting organized and saving money!
Hiring and Working With Contractors
- Make sure to carefully consider whether you should hire a contractor or try to do the job yourself. Don’t underestimate the cost and time to do a new project yourself and always put your safety first.
- If you choose to do a project yourself and you have little experience, always multiply your final estimated cost and time by at least three times and decide if that would still be ok……the biggest mistake is always that people underestimate the cost and work involved.
- If you decide to hire a professional, hire a professional contractor who has done a lot of work in your neighborhood and therefore is familiar with the building codes in your area. Make sure that the contract stipulates that the work will meet code.
Planning is Key
- The best choice for a remodeling or home improvement project is always made when you plan ahead. Leave plenty of time to thoroughly understand the project and to meet a variety of contractors in your area.
Here's How to Save Money
- The best way to save on your remodeling project is by making wise decision regarding the contractor and the products you use. Be sure to have enough time to shop for the best value for you and to compare like products. Compare products and their prices carefully before you make final decisions and keep an open mind when you discuss product and design ideas with your contractor.
- Always ask your contractor for ideas on how to save money without sacrificing quality. Consider staging the work being done to minimize the initial financial and time impact as it is sometimes easier to start small and add to the project at a later date. Talk with the contractor to make sure you will not have to duplicate work later to complete the project.
- For large remodeling projects, consider container based or portable storage. Companies bring a container to your home and you can take your time packing it with all of the things you need to get out of the way. Depending upon your local ordinances, you can leave the container in front of your house until the project is completed or the company can safely store it in one of their secure storage facilities near your home. When you are done, you simply call them and they deliver your things back to you.
- Always sign a contract with the contractor and read it thoroughly. A well–written contract can prevent costly mistakes or additions to the scope of your project.
- Be careful about making any structural changes to your home as those are usually very costly.
Attempt to keep windows, major plumbing elements and wall openings in their existing places during a remodeling project. - Whenever you are adding on new space to a home, have a heating/cooling contractor determine whether your existing heating/air conditioning system can accommodate and heat/cool the extra space.