When it comes down to it, it is almost impossible to complete a complex home improvement project from start to finish without a slew of industry knowledge. Hiring a professional general contractor is in your best interest, regardless of why and when you decide to do so. Even those that begin the project themselves, often need help in the end, so don’t be ashamed when it gets to this point.
How Do I Choose a Home Remodeling Contractor?
So, what do you look for in a home improvement contractor? Before anything else, you’ll want to make sure they are licensed and insured. They should also be able to provide at least three local references and pictures of previous projects. Depending on the project, your home remodeling contractor should also have a basic knowledge of plumbing, electrical and HVAC systems.
If you’re still on the fence, here are a few more reasons why you may decide to hire a pro:
Well Versed in All Aspects of Home Remodeling
With time, comes experience. Choosing a general contractor guarantees a wide range of expertise which you would otherwise have to do without. From framing and drywall to subflooring and installation, they come with experience from every angle of the business. What to do, what not to do, the best materials and tools, and much more.
Exclusive Vendor Connections
Each project requires a complete list of materials needed to do the job. This is a large portion of your budget. Most general contractors have partnerships in place that will save you money on your home improvement. Usually this comes in the form of discounts, because your contractor buys from the same distributor each time. Then, this savings is passed on to you, allowing you to stretch your budget even further.
They may even refer you to a local warehouse to save even more on materials. At IRC, our loca favorite is Builder’s Warehouse in Peoria. We recommend them to every customer looking to pinch a few extra pennies on their project.
Important Safety Training & Legal Knowledge
Any pro that values their business will make safety the top priority. Following OSHA safety protocols can prevent damage to your property and keep you and your contractor safe from harm. Your contractor should also have experience with fire code and permitting, to ensure the job comes off without a hitch.
Respect for Your Home & Family
Oftentimes, homeowners complain about the mess left behind once a contractor is finished. A professional remodeling company will clean up after themselves, instead of leaving a mess to stress you out once the job is done. This includes sweeping up dirt and sawdust, using a magnet to catch any loose screws and nails, and throwing away trash from meal breaks. While some of these things are only minor annoyances, they can also be hazardous if left unchecked.
Huge Savings on Your Remodel
Along with saving you a huge chunk of change on materials, hiring a contractor can also save you money and stress in the long run. Unfinished or low quality work will cause problems in the long run and could easily double your costs over time. It’s always better to make sure the work is done right the first time than spend extra to correct poor work later. If there is an issue with the work, a good contractor should cover it under warranty, so you aren’t stuck with an unexpected bill.
Get Help With Your Home Improvement Project
At the end of the day, hiring a pro is always the right choice. While we have presented 5 reasons it’s a good idea, we can’t think of any good reasons not to. Unless you are an extremely capable DIYer, we highly recommend utilizing the help of an expert. If you need help finding the top local contractors in Illinois, contact Illinois Remodeling Consultants. Our free consulting service will take all the stress and guesswork out of your home improvement project, making it a pleasant experience instead of a headache.
