Posted on Tue, Aug 31, 2010
Posted by: Brian Ciota, Vice President
You have your plan in hand, you’ve hired a contractor and now the day for beginning your remodeling project is quickly approaching. You need to clear the kitchen and organize the contents. If this seems overwhelming, follow these steps to simplify the process.
- Gather supplies. You will need boxes, newspapers, packing materials, packing tape, masking tape, quart size and gallon size plastic storage bags and markers.
- Pull out items that you use every day such as the coffee maker, tea kettle, pots, skillets, mixing bowls, can openers, vegetable peelers, cooking utensils. During the course of the remodeling project you will need these essentials. To make life easier, use disposable cups, plates and dinnerware. Set aside storage containers for leftovers, food storage bags, foil and plastic wrap. Also, make sure that you have cleaning supplies on hand.
- Pack canned and boxed foods in categories such as breakfast food, canned goods, sauces, pastas, spices, baking supplies, drinks, pet food and cooking oils. Use low-sided open boxes to keep items organized and at-hand during the construction activity.
- Collect items you use infrequently such as holiday dinnerware, specialized bake ware, punchbowls, platters, etc. Pack, mark and store these items in a closet or basement.
- Keep like items together when clearing out your cabinets.
- Set aside things you don’t use anymore for donation. Make a list and estimate the value before you take them to your local donation center. Throw out anything broken or unusable like old plastic storage ware. This is a great time to reduce clutter.
- Reorganize cookbooks and recipes. Create a computer file for your favorite recipes.
- Pack eating utensils in the gallon size plastic storage bags. Use a bag each for knives, forks and spoons. It will make it easy to unpack these items once the kitchen is finished. Do the same with cooking utensils and small gadgets.
- Pack glassware and dinnerware carefully. Even though you are packing these items for a short period of time, things can get broken in the process of storing them. Wrap fragile items in newspaper or bubble wrap to protect them and seal your boxes with tape. Mark the contents on the outside of each box.
- Take down blinds, curtains, rods and wall decorations. Place the hardware in plastic storage bags and label with masking tape or directly on the bag is there is a place for writing contents. Clean and dust these items if you will be using them again in the remodeled kitchen.
- Cover computer and electronics to protect from dust. You may also want to cover furniture in adjacent rooms that may be affected by dust from the construction area.
- Take down valuable pictures and wall hangings in adjacent rooms that can be knocked off the wall or damaged during the remodeling process.
- Protect your pets. Keep them away from the work area. Dogs and cats can be a danger to themselves and the work crew if they are underfoot. The best option is to keep them in a closed room away from all the work. You can also hire a pet sitter to look after your pets during an extensive remodel.
Do you have any tips to share about preparing for a remodeling project?
This is the fourth article in a 5-part series on kitchen remodeling. Please check out these articles:
Posted on Tue, Aug 10, 2010
Posted by: Brian Ciota, Vice President
Most people begin a kitchen remodeling project with a “wish list” – everything you NEED and WANT in your dream kitchen. To help start your wish list, we’ve developed this handy A-to-Z guide of features you’ll want to consider as you plan and budget for your project:
- Appliances. Research appliance makes and models. Your choices will impact the design of your kitchen and your budget.
- Built-ins. Make a list of items you would want built into the design of your kitchen. Appliances now are made in counter depth sizes to fit into standard cabinetry. Other types of built-ins to consider are banquettes for breakfast areas and appliance “garages” to house microwave ovens, coffee makers and mixers. Don’t forget to factor in a broom closet if your space allows for it.
- Cabinets and Countertops. Visit showrooms to identify the type of cabinets and countertops you want to use in your project. Note the line, style, material, color and finish for cabinets and type of material, edging and colors for countertops.
- Drawers and Desk Areas. Pull-out drawers are great for under-countertop storage. Check them out when you visit showrooms. Many kitchens feature a desk area for a computer and for doing paperwork such as bill paying or meal planning. On the desk you could add a charging station for cell phones and PDAs.
- Electronics. In addition to appliances, computers and flat screen televisions have found a home in the kitchen. Think about adding these to your space along with a cable service.
- Flooring. Flooring in kitchens includes wood, ceramic tile, vinyl, laminate, concrete and carpet. Other materials used are granite, bamboo and marble. Flooring should not only be attractive but easy to maintain and practical. Go to showrooms and read product reviews.
- Galley or Gathering Space. Think about the space in your home. An efficient galley kitchen is a great asset for food prep for a serious cook while space for informal meals and family gatherings is important to households with children and for those who like to entertain. To achieve extra space you may have to extend the kitchen by adding an addition or reconfiguring an underused dining or living room in your plan.
- Hardware. Select hardware that is attractive, easy to clean and fits within your budget. If you’re planning to live in your home for a long time consider easy to use products like cup shaped pulls on drawers and lever handles on doors where appropriate. “Universal Design” ideas can be implemented in your project to create a space that can be used over the course of a lifetime.
- Islands and Peninsulas. Islands and peninsulas are the work stations of a kitchen. Generally they are designed for food prep, informal dining and storage.
- Jewels of the Kitchen. “Jewels” of a kitchen are items you add for aesthetics like pendant lighting, glass cabinets, custom tiles on backsplashes and areas for display of collections.
- Kitchen Triangle. The kitchen triangle considers the placement of the stove, refrigerator and sink/dishwasher area in the design of a kitchen so that a cook can work efficiently. Read our kitchen triangle article for more information.
- Lighting. Lighting is essential to the function of a kitchen. In your plans consider natural sunlight. If your kitchen needs more sunlight, consider skylights and sun tunnels. Your plans should also take into account lighting over work and dining areas and under cabinets. Options for lighting include florescent, halogen and LED. Fixtures to consider for the kitchen are pendant lights, under cabinet units and recessed lights.
- Moldings. Moldings add architectural interest to a kitchen but also finish off cabinetry, doors and flooring. Pay attention to ornamental moldings when you are looking at photos of kitchens.
- Nooks. Nooks or alcoves are recessed areas of a room that can be used for dining or displays. They add interest to a kitchen but also provide functional space.
- Outlets. Add extra outlets to your wish list. If you don’t, you’ll wish you had considered the height and placement of outlets as well as the number to include when you operate small appliances and gadgets in your kitchen.
- Pantry, Pull-out Storage. There is nothing more frustrating than reaching into the recesses of cabinets to find food, pots and pans and dishware. Look for drawers and cabinets that provide easy access to these items.
- Quick Access. Consider adding carousels (Lazy Susans) to corner cabinets for spice and food storage. Under cabinet trash disposal and recycling pullouts should be included in your plan.
- Recipes and Cookbooks. Plan areas to organize cookbooks. Computerize your recipe files. Here’s a tip for cherished family recipes - frame them; a favorite recipe in your grandmother’s handwriting will be treasured for generations.
- Sinks. Sinks are the most important fixture of a kitchen. Choose them wisely. Consider depth, faucet styles, utility and ease of cleaning. Don’t forget to select a waste disposal. If you have children, choose a waste disposal with safety features.
- Tiles. Floor and backsplash tiles can be used very creatively. If you are using tile on the floor, consider non-skid products. When you’re choosing tiles, don’t forget to select the grout as well.
- Under Counter Appliances and Storage. If you are adding additional refrigerator space consider installing a beverage refrigerator under a counter. A mixer can be stored in base cabinets with a pop-up shelf to free counter space.
- Ventilation. When selecting cooktops and ovens consider ventilation. Ventilation hoods come in a range of styles and some cooktops use down-draft ventilation. Your choice should be factored into your kitchen design.
- Wet Bars and Wine Storage. A space dedicated to beverage storage and glassware is always a plus in a kitchen.
- Xtra Ideas. A kitchen remodeling project is a big investment. Take the time to read product reviews especially when it comes to appliances and consumer information about kitchen remodeling projects. Read what others are saying. Sources you may want to check out are Better Homes and Gardens' Kitchen Bath Ideas, HGTV Kitchens and our Kitchens Gallery.
- Your Personal Touches. Choose colors fabrics, wall decorations, kitchen collections and other items that reflect your likes, interests and lifestyle.
- Zones. When you put together the plan for your kitchen think about the way you want to use your space and plan around “zones” for food prep, clean up, dining, storage, baking, beverages, paperwork etc. The National Kitchen and Bath Association offers an online “Kitchen and Bath Workbook” to help you plan your project.
Take your time when planning a kitchen remodel to address all the details. If the list seems overwhelming, consider hiring a design/build contractor to walk you through it.
Did we leave anything out? What do you have on your kitchen “wish list”?
Posted on Tue, Jul 27, 2010
Posted by: Brian Ciota, Vice President
We’ve all heard contractor horror stories – from cost overruns to shoddy work. It’s not unexpected in this industry since virtually anyone with a truck and tools can call themselves a contractor. In fact, quite a few of our customers came to us because of dissatisfaction with their contractor.
After listening to our fair share of stories over the years, we decided it was time to develop a guide to help consumers understand how the remodeling business works and to arm them with the questions they should ask any potential contractor. The guide – “10 Things You Must Know Before Hiring a Remodeling Contractor” – was developed with our friend and colleague, Stephen Nash, President of Upscale Remodeling in Ithaca.
We feel so strongly about this topic that we’re making our guide available free to anyone to download on our Web site. The guide comes with a handy checklist we created to assist you in planning your next home remodeling or renovation project. We hope you will take advantage of this offer – and tell your friends and neighbors about it.
Here are the topics we address in the Guide:
Part I. Steps to Successfully Hiring a Contractor
1. What makes a remodeling project successful.
2. What to look for in a contractor.
3. 21 Questions you should ask to select the right contractor.
4. 13 Questions to ask a contractor’s references.
5. Factors contractors consider in estimating the cost of a project.
6. How to ensure the success of a project.
Part II. Things to Avoid in Hiring a Contractor
7. What to watch out for.
8. The 6 most common misconceptions about home remodeling.
9. 16 Questionable practices some contractors use to lower project costs.
10. Costly mistakes homeowners often make.
As always, we welcome your feedback and comments.
Posted on Tue, Jun 15, 2010
Posted by: Brian Ciota, Vice President
Over the course of time, we experience many changes in our lifestyles and our homes must evolve to adapt to these changes. If you're a parent of young children worried about home safety, a family caregiver attending to the needs of elderly parents, or a person with a disability, you'll want your home environment to accommodate your lifestyle.
"Universal Design" is a concept that considers the home environment of individuals at all stages of life by eliminating barriers and installing products everyone can use. Construction and design professionals realize that people go through changes and we work with homeowners to create attractive environments for all people to function in regardless of age, size or abilities.
Here are some general tips for making your home user-friendly throughout the years. I will be writing about "Universal Design" room-by-room in upcoming blog posts and welcome your questions and comments.
- Entryways can present obstacles. One step-free entrance to your home will ease access and safety.
- Add handrails to existing steps and porches. Falls often occur in these areas.
- Use lever-style handles to make opening doors easy for all.
- Install flush thresholds when installing carpeting and flooring to eliminate tripping hazards.
- Wide doorways and halls simplify life for everyone. Doorways at least 36 inches wide make it easy to move furniture or appliances into the home and accommodate people with wheelchairs or walkers. Hallways at least 42 inches wide give a home a spacious look and make it easier to maneuver and move furnishings.
- Install rocker light switches to turn lights on and off with ease. Place light switches 42 to 48 inches from the floor where everyone can reach them.
- Place electrical outlets 18 to 20 inches off the floor.
- Install thermostats no higher than 48 inches off of the floor.
- Create a laundry area on the first floor. Purchase raised front-loading washing machines and dryers to avert bending and back strain.
- Install lever-style faucets on sinks.
- Install windows that can be opened and closed easily.
- Consider single story living if you are building or purchasing an existing home.
For more information about Universal Design, check out the Web sites of the National Association of Home Builders and the American Association of Retired Persons.
Posted on Wed, May 26, 2010
Posted by: Brian Ciota, Vice President
Porches are a great addition to homes, especially in Central New York where our spectacular summers are far too short. A porch can be a place for relaxation, outdoor dining or even sleeping on a warm summer night. Screened porches extend the time you can spend enjoying summer breezes by protecting you from insects.
When I drive around Syracuse, I always notice porches on older homes. Some have grand pillars and open seating. Others are screened entryways with aluminum storm doors. Home owners decorate porches with potted plants, window boxes and outdoor furniture.
While I appreciate the designs and utility of porches, I often see porches in need of maintenance. If you own a home with a porch, you'll want to inspect your "haven" for the following problems:
- Rot. Porches are susceptible to rot. They are usually framed in wood and are not supported by the home's foundation. Porches are exposed to the elements - sun, rain, ice, snow and wind all which cause wood to deteriorate. Wood beams which support a porch are often the first point of deterioration. Framing can be repaired with pressure treated lumber.
- Settling. Porches may settle more quickly over the years because they are not attached to a home's foundation. This can cause warped boards and shingles pulling away from the house. If left unattended settling could cause a porch to collapse. Settling is often the result of insufficient foundation support and can be resolved by lifting the porch and adding a new foundation.
- Cracked boards. Wood floors can crack due to heating by the sun and cooling and moisture during the fall winter and spring. These cracks may create an area where decay can occur. The problem can be repaired by replacing individual boards or possibly eliminated by replacing the entire floor with composite decking.
- Insects. Termites are not a problem in Central New York but carpenter ants can be pests and are attracted to decaying wood and can cause damage. Using insecticide will eliminate ants temporarily, but to prevent them from returning the decayed wood should be removed.
- Cracked wiring and rusted fixtures. Exterior light fixtures and porch wiring are more exposed to the elements than interior wiring. Check for cracked wiring and rusted fixtures. Contact an electrician if you find problems especially if you own an older home. Have the electrician add ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs) to all outside circuits. Replace rusted fixtures.
- Wear and tear on columns, posts and railings. Most porch columns and rails of older homes are made of wood and require regular painting and maintenance. If you have to replace them, check out reinforced vinyl, composite or urethane products.
- Tears in screens. One of the best features of a porch is screens that keep insects out. Check your screens for holes. Most small holes can be easily patched for performance but once patched the screen may not look aesthetically pleasing. Most screens can be easily replaced by taking the frame to your local hardware store for professional rescreening or by stretching new screen in the opening. If tearing is an ongoing problem, you may want to install a more durable "pet screen." To optimize the view through your screens, check out the new "invisible screens."
The pluses of having a porch outweigh annual maintenance. If you plan to build a porch onto your home consider the following:
- The enjoyment you will experience.
- New building materials are more durable and reduce annual maintenance.
- A porch will add value to your home.
Posted on Wed, May 05, 2010
Posted by: Brian Ciota, Vice President
As you may have heard or read about in the news, starting April 22, 2010 all contractors performing renovation, repair or painting on pre-1978 homes must be certified and follow specific work practices to prevent lead contamination. If you live in a house built before 1978, there's a good chance it contains lead paint.
We've received a number of questions from homeowners about this new U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) requirement and we wanted to share our answers with you.
1. How do I know if my house has lead paint?
If your house was built before 1978 assume that lead paint was used. According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, about two-thirds of homes built before 1940 and about half of homes built between 1940 and 1960 contain heavily-leaded paint. Lead was used as a pigment and drying agent in alkyd oil-based paints until 1978 when the legal maximum of lead content in paints was reduced to a trace amount (0.06%). Lead paint can be on any interior or exterior surface particularly on woodwork, doors and windows. Latex or water-based paints generally have not contained lead.
2. What are the health risks attributed to lead paint exposure?
In most cases, lead-based paint that's in good condition is not a problem. As it deteriorates and breaks down into dust and chips, however, it can become a health risk. It can get into your body when dust is breathed in or swallowed, or by ingesting soil or paint chips that contain lead. Children are vulnerable to lead poisoning because their growing bodies absorb more lead and their brains and nervous systems are more sensitive to the damaging effects. Lead poisoning can cause irreversible brain damage and adversely impact development. In adults, lead poisoning can cause nerve damage, reproductive problems and high blood pressure. Removing lead-based paint improperly can increase your risk of exposure. Learn more about the health effects of lead on the EPA's Web site.
3. What does the EPA require from contractors?
The EPA requires all companies and contractors (including carpenters, painters, electricians and window installers) who work on homes built before 1978 - to be certified in the use of lead-safe practices. EPA issues separate certifications to businesses and individuals. Upon completing an 8-hour EPA-approved course, contractors are certified for five years. All certified contractors must provide their clients with a copy of EPA's lead Hazard information pamphlet, "Renovate Right: Important Lead Hazard Information for Families, Child Care Providers and Schools" and follow procedures to contain the work area, minimize dust, and clean up thoroughly.
4. What should I expect from my contractor?
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EPA certified contractors will explain the steps they will take to protect you from lead dust.
When they're working on the inside of your home, contractors must:
- Use signs to keep residents and pets out of the work area.
- Remove furniture and belongings, or cover them with heavy plastic sheeting.
- Use heavy plastic sheeting to cover floors and other fixtures (e.g., appliances) in the work area.
- When appropriate, use heavy plastic sheeting to separate the work area from other areas of the home.
- Close and seal vents in the work area and turn off forced-air heating and air conditioning systems.
To protect the work area outside of your home, contractors must:
- Mark off the work area to keep non-workers away.
- Cover the ground and plants with heavy plastic sheeting.
- Close windows and doors near the work area.
- Move or cover play areas near the work site.
- Wrap all removed materials in sealed plastic before taking them out of the work area.
- Use personal protective equipment to ensure the safety of workers.
- Provide you a list of all "trained workers."
Other precautions to minimize dust include:
- Misting areas prior to sanding, scraping. Drilling or cutting.
- Scoring paint before separating components.
- Prying or pulling apart components instead of pounding and hammering.
- Using a shroud with a HEPA vacuum attachment when using power tools and equipment.
5. How much will this new rule add to the cost of my project?
The cost of complying with the new EPA regulations will depend on the type and size of the project you are undertaking. A baseline cost for all projects will take into account the contractor's cost for EPA certification, training, equipment and required EPA documentation. For us, the minimum cost will be $100, even for the smallest jobs. On more extensive projects the cost could be thousands of dollars. Most contractors are just beginning to implement these regulations and may not know their exact costs until they have experience in fully meeting the requirements. If you are working with a qualified contractor, however, they should already be taking steps to protect your home and keep the job site clean, which will help facilitate compliance with the EPA requirements.
6. What if I do the work myself?
The EPA regulations do not apply to individual homeowners making their own repairs or painting their home. However, if you suspect there is lead paint in your home or your home has tested positive for lead paint, take the time to read the EPA's "Renovate Right" brochure for information about how to work safely. Remember, common renovation activities such as sanding, demolition and cutting can create lead dust by disturbing lead paint. If you're painting, prep work such as sanding, scraping and using a "paint-burning" heater will also release lead dust and paint chips.
Posted on Tue, Apr 27, 2010
Posted by: Brian Ciota, Vice President
Today's technologies have produced new products for home siding that are both attractive and durable. Two popular options for home siding are fiber cement and vinyl siding. Both products have been around for a while and innovations in manufacturing have improved the performance and look. If you're thinking about siding your home, here's some information to consider.
Fiber Cement Siding
Fiber cement has been used on homes for almost a century. It was once made with asbestos added to the cement but today's fiber cement siding is made from a mix of cement, cellulose or wood pulp, sand and water. It can be shaped into a variety of siding patterns including wood-grain which makes it look like wood plank siding. Fiber cement siding has the following advantages over wood siding and all of these features make it a popular choice for Central New York homes:
- It is non-combustible.
- It is resistant to warping and shrinkage.
- It is resistant to the elements-sun, wind, snow hail and rain.
- It is resistant to insects and rot.
- It requires less maintenance.
- It can be easily painted and paint last up to three times longer than painted wood.
- It is easy to clean.
Manufacturers offer long term warranties. James Hardie, a company we've worked with for years, offers a 30 year warranty on its fiber cement products and a 15-year warranty on the paint finish.
Fiber cement siding is earth-friendly because the production of this product does not require aggressive clearing of forests. The materials used to produce it are low in toxicity. Many manufacturers are part of the U.S. Green Building Council and National Association of Home Builders National Green Building Certification Program.
Fiber cement requires professional installation. It weighs more than wood and requires special tools for cutting. You will want to talk to your contractor about this product.
Vinyl Siding
Today's vinyl siding is popular choice among homeowners because of its durability, low maintenance. The product is made of polyvinyl chlorate (PVC) a material that is strong, rigid and impact-resistant. The Vinyl Siding Institute (VSI) notes that PVC is comprised of chlorine made from common salt and ethylene from natural gas. Most of the natural gas used to manufacture ethylene is domestically produced which reduces consumption of foreign products.
Homeowners and builders choose vinyl siding for the following reasons:
- It never requires painting and over 360 vinyl siding colors have been certified for color retention.
- It is easy to clean. Rinse with a garden hose and wipe with a soft cloth.
- Vinyl siding does not require caulking.
Vinyl siding is versatile. CertainTeed, a vinyl siding manufacturer that we use, has a range of products which are molded from wood to produce an authentic look. Vinyl siding replicates beadboard, wood-grain planks, cedar shingles, wood trims, wood shingles and cove molding. Vinyl siding comes in a broad range of color choices. Most manufacturers offer a lifetime warranty and many of the warranties offered are fully transferable and cover manufacturing defects, color and appearance.
If you are planning to have new siding installed on your home, be sure to check out these products.
Posted on Tue, Mar 23, 2010
Posted by: Brian Ciota, Vice President
The majority of home owners view their home as their most important investment. We're always considering ways to improve our homes to accommodate our lifestyles. Popular remodeling projects include new kitchens with up-to-date appliances, luxurious bathrooms, home offices or media rooms. In Central New York, with our frequent cloudy days, many people add a sunroom to ease the drudgery of winter. Basement renovations add living space and improve a home's function. But which projects add value to a home investment when it comes time to sell?
If you are thinking about remodeling your home, take a moment to ask yourself the following questions:
- How long do I plan to own this property? (If you're planning to live in the home for less than five years, it may make sense to take on remodeling projects that freshen up the inside of the home and promote curb appeal.)
- How does the value of my home compare to other properties in the area? (Generally, a remodeling project that is less than 20 percent of the average resale value in your area can be recouped when your home is sold.)
- What do I gain by remodeling? (Many people remodel to enrich their lifestyle and enjoy their home. If you love to cook and entertain, a state-of- the-art kitchen will provide years of pleasure. If you're a wine connoisseur, a wine cellar and bar are "must haves". If you have a beautiful yard and want to bring in the outdoors, then add a sunroom. If these are the things that add pleasure to your life, go for it!)
According to Remodeling Magazine's 2009-10 annual report on the relationship between remodeling costs and resale value, different remodeling projects offer a wide range of payback. The table below compares remodeling costs to resale values in the Mid-Atlantic States (including New York):
| Project |
Avg. Cost |
Resale Value |
% Cost Recouped |
| Replace front entry door with steel door |
$1,248 |
$1,217 |
98 |
| Vinyl siding replacement |
$10,908 |
$8,920 |
81 |
| Fiber cement siding replacement |
$13,497 |
$10,710 |
79 |
| Foam-backed siding replacement |
$13,369 |
$10,489 |
79 |
| Vinyl replacement windows |
$11,408 |
$8,766 |
77 |
| Wood replacement windows |
$12,410 |
$9,248 |
75 |
| Attic bedroom addition |
$53,780 |
$39,292 |
73 |
| Minor kitchen remodel |
$22,130 |
$15,973 |
72 |
| Bathroom remodel |
$17,383 |
$11,817 |
68 |
| Major kitchen remodel |
$59,905 |
$39,860 |
67 |
| Basement remodel |
$67,455 |
$41,127 |
61 |
| Master suite addition |
$111,857 |
$67,612 |
60 |
| Deck addition (composite) |
$39,270 |
$22,584 |
58 |
| Sunroom addition |
$76,580 |
$38,661 |
51 |
The costs recouped on a remodeling project depend on a variety of factors including the condition of the rest of the house, the value of similar homes nearby, and the rate at which property values are changing in the surrounding area. If resale value is a factor in your decision to remodel, consult with a local remodeler about construction costs and look closely at the comps and market conditions in your area.
Posted on Tue, Mar 09, 2010
Posted by: Brian Ciota, Vice President
Spring is almost here! The ice is melting and the time has come to do a check up on your home, put together a "to do" list of repairs and home improvement projects, and visit the CNY Home and Garden Show at the NYS Fairgrounds, March 18-21, 2010.
We have two booths in the Toyota Exhibit Center:
Booth #236 - Home remodeling and repair
Booth #801 - Solar water heating systems
This year, we've combined our home remodeling and home repair displays into a single, larger display area. It's an exciting new look for us designed with your needs in mind. You'll see the latest in kitchen, bathroom and basement conversion designs as well as additions and custom projects in our new photo gallery.
Stop by booth #801 and we'll show you how our new VELUX solar water heating system works and why it's a good investment for Central New York homeowners.
McClurg team experts will be at the booths throughout the show to answer your questions about home remodeling, renovations, repair, new construction and solar technology.
Please stop by to see us. We look forward to seeing you at this year's show.
Posted on Tue, Feb 16, 2010
Posted by: Brian Ciota, Vice President
When remodeling or renovating your home, the biggest decision you'll make is hiring the contractor. It's your home and your investment, so don't feel pressured to make a quick decision. In fact, if you feel pressured, that should tell you something about that contractor. Take your time and ask a lot of questions. To help you get started, here's a checklist of tips and questions you'll want to get answered.
1) Finding a contractor.
__ Talk to friends who have had similar work completed. They can tell you about their experience and provide names and contact information of contractors.
__ Visit home shows. Talk to contractors. Look at portfolios and examples of their work.
__ Check websites of local contractors.
__ Contact local home builder and remodeler associations for a list of members.
2) Planning the project.
__ Have a plan. If you are planning a major renovation you may want to hire an architect or designer. If you don't have a plan in hand, consider hiring a design/build firm.
__ Prepare a written description of what you want done. Be as specific as possible. Make a copy of your notes for the contractor.
3) Meeting with contractors. Select several contractors to discuss your project with. Get to know them and their work. Ask the following questions:
__ How long have you been in business? The National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) advises consumers that it usually takes three to five years to establish a financially sound business. You want to be sure that the contractor will be around after the project is complete to service any warranties.
__ Does the contractor have a permanent business location and a good reputation with local banks and suppliers?
__ Are you and your sub-contractors licensed to do plumbing and electrical?
__ Do you have a project portfolio?
__ Do you use your own crew for the work or will you use subcontractors?
__ Do you carry worker's compensation and liability insurance?
__ Do you provide a written contract?
__ Will you apply for permits (building, electrical, plumbing)?
__ What kind of warranty do you offer and what does it cover?
__ How and when do you clean up, particularly dust?
__ Do you have a list of references?
__ Ask to see examples of the contractor's work completed and in progress. Check the quality of workmanship and materials.
4) Getting Estimates or Proposals. When you request an estimate be as specific as you can. You may want to discuss your budget for the project.
__ Provide the contractor with a list of items and materials you want to use. For example: cabinets, doors, flooring, fixtures, tiles, finishes, lighting, etc.
__ Ask the contractor to submit the bid in person so that you can discuss the estimate with him. Review the estimate carefully. Be sure that everything you ask for is included.
__ Ask the contractor for a construction schedule.
5) Get it in Writing. For your protection and peace of mind, ALWAYS GET IT IN WRITING!
__ The contractor should provide a clearly written contract. Review it carefully.
6) Choosing a contractor. Before making your final decision, make sure you can get along with the contractor and can communicate well. The contractor should be knowledgeable and willing to offer ideas.
__ Call the contractor's references. Ask about their satisfaction with the contractor and the work.
__ Call the local Better Business Bureau to check for complaints that may have been filed against the contractor.
__ Look for a fair price. Don't automatically accept the lowest estimate. It may be unrealistic or the contractor may be seeking an advantage over competitors which may later result in unexpected costs. NAHB advises consumers to be cautious of unusually low priced bids. If the builder is unable to pay for the materials and labor as the project proceeds, this may indicate a potential problem.
Finally, and most importantly, when you hire a contractor consider reputation, knowledge, reliability and willingness to stand behind the work. Choose the contractor you feel will give you the best overall value for your investment.
For more information on hiring a contractor, check out the NAHB's checklist and the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation's Hiring a Contractor fact sheet.