5 Reasons DIY may not be meant for you

DIY is a great way to save some money if you are handy.  Doing carpentry, the wrong way, can cost you money and time; you may even find yourself hiring someone to fix your work.

The following are a few reasons you may need to rethink DIY and save it for the professionals.

 

1)       Time.  We all wish we had more of it.  The truth is we don’t.  If you have a job or family, you probably have less time to do your DIY project than you think.  Be realistic about how much time you can devote to your home project.  If you want your construction project done in a time frame and you are not known for being ‘timely’ it’s likely your project may not be either.  Procrastination is very likely in your home improvement DIY if it is in your life.

2)      Being Realistic.  Sometimes you have to admit when your over your head.  There are professionals who do nothing all day but you’re DIY project.  They specialize in what you want to accomplish.  These professionals can finish your project or better yet, start and finish your project the way you want it done; half done is not an option you or what your family probably wants.

3)      Getting in over your head.  You may be a great tiler (or know someone who is) but when it comes to electrical, you have no clue.  Construction DIY projects can not only can this be dangerous for you, but also be for your family and potentially your house.  Seeking a professional may not only save time but help you save future headaches and DIY disasters.  

4)      Being Indecisive.  Having a plan for your DIY or any project is essential.   A time frame and a budget are important.  If you don’t know what to do or how much to spend you probably shouldn’t consider any construction project and leave it to the professionals.

5)      Not good with Power Tools.  Most, if not all, remodel projects require skill with a power tool you may not be familiar with.   Learning while you go may not be an option.  You also want your project to ‘look’ professional even if it was not done by a professional; these tools are not for everyone.

Let’s face it we are not all handy.  Knowing this before getting in over your head may save you time, money and a lot of frustration. Hiring a professional contractor to get the job done right might be better for you and your family.

6 Things to Know before your Home Renovation

Preparation can help you and your contractor save time during your future remodel.  These are just a few tips to consider before you take on your construction project.

• Make sure your contractor is licensed.  Each state has its own set of rules set by the state they reside in.  Without a licensed contractor, your city or town local inspector may not issue a permit forcing work to stop on your property. 
• Look for the Company or Contractor on the BBB (Better Business Bureau).  You can see how many complaints they have (if any) and how they were handled by the business, customer and BBB – if you can do this here:  http://www.bbb.org/stlouis
•  Have an idea or plans for your contractor from you or your architect.  Not all plans will be approved by the city or location you live in for necessary permits, but hiring an architect or general contractor may increase these odds.  Stick to these plans, be prepared for a change work order from your contractor if you or the contractor decide something different has to be done.  For example, you change a door way or fixture.  These may seem like small things but to your contractor they are not.  Also make arrangements (living etc.) for when the construction work is to be done.
• Make a budget.  Try to stick within that budget allowing for some overages.
• Plan for overages due to unforeseen circumstances or when a homeowner changes their mind.  This is usually due to an upgrade to plans or to add something your contractor had no idea about.
• If you change your mind, be prepared for a change order from the contractor.  Time is Money.  Your contractor is no different.  It is standard in the industry to issue these change orders if any modifications are made.

How to Hire a General Contractor for you Home Improvement and Home Building needs

Hi there welcome to Klein Developments.  This blog entry will give you information on choosing the best contractor in your area.

We will start with the beginning process.  Most consumers utilize the internet to query about specific construction jobs needing to be performed using "job specific keywords" on your search for the right contractor will help.   Once you have located the contractor section for your specific needs, try to choose at least five to call.  Write down a list of specific questions to ask about your construction work needing performed.  If possible, try to have samples of materials or pictures that you like.  Interview each contractor on the phone and see if they seem informing, personable, and professional.  Your ultimate goal at this point is to choose three contractors to give estimates on your construction project.  Once you set appointment times, then do your own background checks on the contractors; an example i.e. BBB.org, Angies list etc.  Now finally you have your appointments set and your chance to personally interview each contractor.  On these final interviews your contractors should possess the following:  number one is going to be intelligence once seeing the construction work that you need to have performed. Number two contractors should arrive at the agreed upon time. Number three clean presentation. Number four business cards.  Number five detail oriented as far as measurements. Number six and appointed time that you may receive your estimations.

Be prepared your contractor may need to take pictures to provide best estimate for your construction project.

Ok! Now your estimates are in on their timely manner.  It is time for you to go to work.  Number one compare the estimates that you have received "apples to apples".  Make sure that details are congruent with your previous interviews.  Number two check qualifications including references.  Number three compare pricing, and if anything is questionable then be sure to call the contractor with your concerns.  They should revise your estimate if needed.  Number four check credentials as far as licensing and insurance before make final decisions.  Number five feel free to call your chosen contractor for any additional questions--after all they are working for you!

You are now ready to hire your chosen contractor.

Klein Developments extends their wish to have the greatest construction experience with their chosen contractor.  We thank you for checking our blog this week and check back for our next blog entry on Architects-When you need them, and when you don't.