DIY home improvement projects are fun and often easy on the budget. But many homeowners realize that a professional general contractor is better equipped to handle larger renovations. The cost to hire these skilled and licensed companies is recovered through a smoother project, more detailed and durable finishes and better options in terms of design and materials.
These five major home improvement projects require the expertise and skills of a general contracting firm, not only because the average homeowner does not have the time nor the experience to handle them, but also because general contractors handle these types of projects every day. They are well equipped to take on the problems, concerns and challenges that come up during a large-scale remodel. And their fees are reasonable when you consider the value these professionals offer.
Kitchen Remodeling
Your kitchen is the hub of your home. Family gatherings, meals, casual conversation and much of the action takes place in the kitchen. When that room is being renovated your family will likely feel upside down and out of sorts. Hire a general contractor to help sort out all of the questions, challenges and difficulties that naturally arise during a kitchen remodel.
General contractors handle everything from the design stage to building permit, hiring of the trades and supervising the installation. You will work directly with the general, who will then communicate your needs and details of the project to the various trades and suppliers. The general contractor acts as a project manager, making sure that their subcontractors and material suppliers meet all of your wants and needs as a client.
Your kitchen renovation will proceed smoothly and be completed faster with the professional help and direction of a general contractor. Let them look after the various details involved with this project while you handle the daily activities of your family. Together, you can make this home improvement project successful.
Basement Renovations
Many homeowners attempt to finish their basement on their own. While this is entirely possible in some cases, larger basement renovations should be trusted to a general contractor. These professionals have the experience and know how to lead you through the unique challenges a basement renovation provides.
How will you handle the dampness in your basement? Are their special plumbing problems presented by this below-grade renovation? How about building permit processes, will your dream basement meet local building codes? Can you plan for a bedroom downstairs? A bright and spacious home office? A home theater set up? The very best finished basements have been designed and completed by a general contractor that looks after every detail and problem involved with this project. Timing is often less sensitive with basement renovations, since you can still live in the remainder of your house. But general contractors will keep the schedule moving forward and have your project completed on an efficient schedule.
Bathroom Remodel
Much like a kitchen remodel, bathroom renovations can easily upset your daily life, especially if the main bathroom or master bath is being redone. With the skills and knowledge of a general contractor, this type of home improvement project can get done quickly and competently.
Your dream bathroom involves luxurious fixtures, exotic tiling and the latest in tub and shower design. Glass walls allow for a bright space in any area and new windows provide privacy with plenty of natural light. The average homeowner, no matter how handy they are, cannot easily complete these bathroom renovation elements. Only a skilled and experienced contractor with connections and industry knowledge can build the bathroom of your dreams.
Plumbing and electrical feature heavily in a bathroom remodeling project. Make sure these essential components are completed properly and safely, providing your family with the bathroom space they need.
Exterior Refinish
Replacing your existing siding and trim with a new product can be a complicated process. You could simply hire a siding installer, but they may not have all of the expertise needed to tackle this project. Removing the old exterior siding takes time and care, while the installation process of brick veneer and vinyl siding are vastly different.
A general contractor can handle all of the details this particular project requires. Will the windows need to be replaced or upgraded? How about the existing soffits and fascia? Are accents and trim pieces available to dress up your home and add architectural accents? What if you want two different types of siding on your home, such as a brick and vinyl combination? All of these questions and more will arise during the initial phases of your exterior refinishing job. Most general contracting firms specialize in aesthetically pleasing and practical designs.
Home Additions
Most homeowners would hire a general contractor to look after their home addition project. Because additions are so similar to the construction of a new home, the average handyman feels way out of their depth and sees the value in hiring a professional.
No matter what your planned addition includes, whether that's living space, bedrooms, bathrooms, kitchen or utility rooms, a general contractor can handle the entire project. All of the necessary subtrades will be hired and managed with professionalism and efficiency. Top quality materials will be sourced and brought on site, and the general contracting firm will often handle the relevant paperwork and building department issues. Most often the homeowner works closely with the contractor during the design phase and approves of the work and materials as they are completed and delivered.
Homeowners planning a kitchen or basement renovation, bathroom remodel, exterior refinishing project or home addition are wise to call a general contractor. An experienced professional that offers the knowledge, connections and skills required is well worth the investment. With the help of a general contracting firm you can expect a more professionally finished job completed in less time and closer to your planned budget. And that equals a successful home improvement project.
Posted by: TrustedPros
