Should You Hire A Contractor

By Robert Robillard on Home Repairs And Remodeling

Benefits of Doing It Yourself VS. Benefits of Hiring a Contractor

Whether remodeling your kitchen, building a bathroom addition or simply repairing a screen door repairing things yourself can be rewarding and cost effective.  

Depending on your level of expertise you need to decide whether or not it makes sense to tackle a project yourself or to hire a contractor to do it. 

Prior to taking on a DIY project, consider factors such as your skills with the tools and materials and do you have prior experience doing similar work and  do you have the appropriate tools on hand and the cost of any additional tools you may need.  

One thing to consider is whether there are available resources for research and further instruction for the project, especially if you get into trouble.

Once you have answered those questions compare the answers to whether you should you hire a contractor.

There are even more important factors to consider, they are:

Budget:

Repairs can be less expensive than hiring a contractor.
Should You Hire A Contractor

Mid-remodeling changes:

You may have more time on your hands to deal with changes as opposed to working with a professional contractors progress and schedule.

Personal enjoyment:

Many homeowners find “sweat equity” rewarding and fun.

If there are problems with the project, you may have little or no legal recourse with a manufacturer or code issues /insurance agency.  You may also not have the correct tools to complete the work properly or to quality standards. Contractors have all the necessary tools and tools cost money.

Size of the project:

Big projects are sometimes too complex for a do-it-yourself and require a specialist.  This is the time to consider whether you should you hire a contractor or not.

Plumbing, electrical, and carpentry work: Can include substantial tasks and may require a contractor.

Building to code:

Contractors are professionals who understand local codes. You don’t want to jeopardize your safety or the safety of your home or be in violations of a building code / fined later- for failing to follow local building codes.

Permits and inspections:

Contractors take care of the paperwork for you.

Time constraints:

You may have more time than money. Improvements take less time with contractors.

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About the author

Robert Robillard

Carpenter / Remodeler / Editor

Rob Robillard is “The Concord Carpenter” Rob is a builder, general contractor, carpenter, woodworker, and editor of Concord Carpenter and ToolBoxBuzz As a General Contractor and carpenter, Rob owns and operates Concord Carpenter LLC. A full-service remodeling and construction company. Rob is a recognized leader in home building best practices and a source for how-to information for building professionals. On this website, Rob covers all aspects of home construction, building science, home improvement, woodworking, remodeling, and some of the best product and tool reviews. Rob is in charge of our Tool and Product Review series - Concord Carpenter Videos where we post all of our tool reviews and video tutorials. Rob approaches remodeling and building construction with a pragmatic and problem-solving approach. He enjoys using his knowledge and experience to help and educate building professionals as well as DIYers on best practices in the construction and remodeling industry. He's a strong advocate for "raising the bar" in the construction trades and promoting the trades to youth. #BeAMentor #Green2Great Craftsmanship, quality, and pride guide his journey on this channel The Concord Carpenter's motto: "Well done is better than well said!" : Read more about Rob

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