Renovating a house is a complicated project that involves many moving parts. You will likely need to hire contractors even if you plan to do it yourself. This home renovating guide will show you the different types of contractors that you can enlist to help build your dream home.
General contractors
A general contractor is like a military general. This gives you an idea of the basics of what a general contractor does. A general contractor is responsible for organizing the strategy and execution of a building project or remodeling project, much like a general in the military. The general contractor determines when the electricians, plumbers, and roofers will be called in; ensures that they do their jobs properly; and inspects details such as whether the carpenters have installed the porch handrails correctly according to code. Even if there isn’t an architect involved, the general contractors ensure that all building permits are in place and that the project conforms to local or national building codes. If it is not, the city’s inspectors will have you redo it. Oh! The general contractor is accountable for the final outcome of any remodeling project, just like a general in the military who is ultimately responsible to the success of a campaign.
Subcontractors
Subcontractors are specialists that work under the supervision of the general contractor. These subcontractors can include electricians, plumbers, tile setters and carpenters as well as framers, roofers (painters, cabinetmakers, etc. They should show up on your remodeling or construction project whenever they are needed. Your project will move at a steady pace if the subcontractors work efficiently and are reliable. It is often because a competent general contractor has overseen their work.
Owner as general contractor
Some homeowners who have the skills to organize multimillion-dollar sales campaigns in their office, or run three volunteer groups in their spare time, like to be their own general contractors. There’s no law saying you can’t. General contractors typically charge between 15 and 20 percent of the total job cost. Being your own general contractor can help you save money. Before you jump into the general contractor position, think about whether you have the patience, time and expertise to manage a complex remodeling project. What amount of time do you have to spend on the job? Are you able to take calls at odd hours of the day? One thing you can be sure of with any remodel is that it will go wrong at one point. Although it may not be major, it can lead to new arrangements and changes in the schedules of subcontractors or suppliers of property.
This could lead to dozens of calls in one afternoon. This could be as simple as running around looking for hardware or building materials that are needed right now. This sounds like something you would enjoy, and it could be your chance to become a general contractor.
Firms that design/build
Hiring a general contractor is not an option. You can also hire a design/build company. Companies that provide remodeling and building services from start to finish are called design/build firms. These firms employ both architects and designers, as well as skilled builders. Design/build firms offer the services of an architect, general contractor and subcontractors. These firms have the obvious advantage of making the whole project run smoothly, as they take full responsibility. Although sub-general contractors and independent architects may be able to blame one another for mishaps and share the responsibility for fixing them, design/build firms understand that the final word is theirs. They must make it right.
Carpenters
A good cabinetmaker or carpenter is your best option if your home improvement project is simple. Although handymen might be able to install new light switches and do minor carpentry, it is worth asking for examples of their work. Find a cabinetry expert to make your bookshelves look elegant in your living room. This is for your home so you should be very careful.
