Stop wondering - let Capmire Projects answer your building and remodeling questions.
We cover some of the most frequently asked here.
Common Questions
Service. If you know exactly what you want, can select it from that store, know how the materials are to be properly installed and are prepared to stay at home supervising your remodeling project, then the big handyman stores might be the way to go. Typically, the quality of installation and attention to detail is not one of their trademarks, nor is custom work. Usually, the big handyman stores do not carry high quality materials and manufactures make lower quality products to sell to these companies, than those they sell to remodelers. A remodeling company has greater flexibility to get your job completed in a more timely fashion. Like most things, there are situations when one of these stores might be the right way to go, and there are times when it is best to have a professional handle your job. Every situation is different. Make sure to be careful when comparing estimates across different types of companies. What can I do before requesting an estimate to make the process easier and quicker? Research the internet for pictures to help you start the selection or design process; you may even find pictures in magazines to be a useful tool. If you are remodeling a kitchen, start looking at different types of flooring, cabinetry, tile and granite. There is an endless selection of different products. If you want to build a deck in your backyard, think about how you might want it to look. How many estimates should I get for a remodeling project? I'm sure you have heard to always get three estimates for any work you are going to have done. Well, usually that is true. If a contractor has been recommended by a friend, you are comfortable with that contractor, and you feel his price is reasonable you may only need to get his estimate. If you are getting bids from contractors that you have no references on, then get three bids. If the bids are close, choose based on your comfort level. If the three bids are significantly different, you should try and determine why. Usually it is because a contractor forgot something and the bids actually not comparing apples-to-apples. Always ask questions to make sure your bids are comparable with the scope of work to be performed. I have three different estimates. So why do the prices vary greatly? Make sure that every estimate has the same scope of work. If you get an estimate that is not detailed, go to that contractor for clarification. Make sure you get the clarifications in writing; do not settle for verbal clarification. If the contractor delays in getting you that information you should probably eliminate that contractor from bidding. The level of service given by a contractor greatly affects the cost. If the contractor spends lots of time picking out materials, attending to every detail, and taking care of all the little extras, so you don't have to, it will cost a little extra. When a contractor carries insurance, his prices will be higher than a 'pick-up contractor'. Quality of work, which is hard to show in a written estimate, is also a factor. Always ask if they are insured and will warranty their work. That is extremely important. |