Main | 5 Things I reccomend a do-it-yourselfer needs to know or do before they begin a project? »
May 11, 2006
Great tips for the DIYer who needs advise for choosing a tradesperson or contractor if they feel its out of their league. Or is it?
Hello world,
Here is some advice from the Aussie guy on the DIY Network.
Over the next series of weeks I will be sharing with you a bunch of home improvement tips, advice and experiences I have had over the last 20 years.
I,m constantly asked when do I need to call in a profesional or can I do this project myself. I hope the below information is a helpfull insight to the wonderful world of home improvement.
What does a contractor/builder do?
Mid – large scale projects.
A contractor orchestrates the whole project from start to finish. They generally have a team of trades’ people that they can trust and work comfortably with. They are also engaged in the project to suit the contractor’s budget.
There are two areas a DIYer can be involved:
1. Take the role of the contactor, acting as the project manager to organize materials, trades people and of course the paperwork (my worst part)! Etc.
This process can save you money as long as you are on the ball, organized and understand the builder’s world of negotiation, coordinating of materials and labor.
2. Take the roll of one or more of the trades:
Carpenter (framing and finish carpentry)
Bricklayer and or block layer
Painter
Landscaper etc.
I don’t recommend that DIYers take the roll of a plumber or electrician. This is because the work is mostly concealed. When it’s hidden in walls and floors it can be expensive to undertake repairs. It can also be dangerous. It is a specialized trade. However with this said and you desire to take it on. I fully recommend getting educated about what you are doing and have the worked checked prior to wall coverings.
TIP 1
Choosing a contractor (builder) or sub contractor (trades person)
Always obtain references. However, not dated references. I always recommend asking for the last 3 to 6 telephone numbers. There should not be any hesitation about this, if so this is not the right person for you.
When you talk to them ask about budget, workmanship, was the project finished on time, was the project kept tidy etc?
TIP 2
If you have the time to undertake a project. I fully recommend it.
As you can fully research what the project entails: Tools, materials, expertise etc.
There are many resources out there today where you can get educated. www.diynetwork.com is just one of them & has 15,000 projects online.
TIP 3.
There is no sense to engage you’re self in a particular part of a project when the labor rate is less than your own. If this is the case, I recommend you delegate that part of the project. Your time will be better spent on another part of a project where it is more expensive to hire someone or a more creative one.
TIP 4.
If you wish to carry out structural work always consult a structural engineer or a licensed contactor so they can guide you through the process and to what size beams, columns etc. are required.
This area of work always requires temporary support procedures prior to any removal. This is extremely important! If you feel a project is out of your reach. I recommend you engage a licensed contractor to do this part of the project. You can always be part of the organization & then install the drywall, crown molding, trim, base boards, floor transitions, finish work etc.
TIP 5.
I always recommend buying good quality tools! Spend a little more upfront and you will save $$$ in the long run as you will not have to replace them. Your work will be easier and your project will have a better result.
Large or uncommon tools can be rented from many home improvement stores or tool rentals specialist. It’s too easy & renting is always a good tax deduction!
TIP 6.
Budgeting and scheduling (most important part)
Include all materials, deliveries, labor etc.
When tendering a contactor or tradesperson must have a clear understanding of what is to be priced. List all details, materials, location, timing etc. in an easy and clear format.
You need to send the same documents, and plans for pricing. If you do this you will get clean comparisons.
TIP 7.
When selecting a contractor or tradesperson, it is vital that you have good and clear communication from the beginning.
Questions:
If there are variations what rate will be charged and will there be a % applied to materials,
Timing
Materials used
Tip 8
Be sure to hire a licensed and insured contactor or tradesperson. If they are not licensed you have no comeback on their work.
It is also a good idea to check your own insurance needs for your project. Public liability, fire, theft, etc.
TIP 9.
Be organized
Have a separate filing system for your project. Have it well set out so you can keep track of cost, time, materials, insurance, permits etc.
The more organized you are the smoother the project will be. Resulting in a more enjoyable experience.
TIP 10
Negotiate
You can make great money renovating, building, restoring! Negotiating is one way of doing that. Start negotiating from the very beginning. Because as you know every dollar counts!
Always ask for a discount on tools and materials. Contactors make a lot of money this way.
TIP 11.
Don,t always think that the expensive quote will be the best. This is a myth.
Some contractors or tradespeople will quote high if they are to busy or not 100% interested in your job.
The lowest price may give you a good result.
Mid range is generally your safe bet. However if your paperwork (plans and docs.) are in order the lowest price may be the one.
Always dicuss the quotation to ensure all bases are covered & everything has been included.
TIP 12
Don,t front load your $. A deposit and progress payements are fine. However retain a healthy amount for completion. This way you are in control and if for some reason they did not perform or return to finish the project. You have enough money to engage another to complete the project.
TIP 13
Safety
I cannot stress this enough. Purchase top quality safety equiptment.
This way you can finish the project (If you know what I mean)
Have fun! & I welcome your questions.
Cheers
Karl
Posted by karlchampley at May 11, 2006 11:45 PM
Comments
I live in an old victorian and the living room is 16'X 14' and has 6 doorways in it.
1 to kitchen, 2 closets, 1 to front hall,and 2 to the 2 bedrooms. I just don't know what to do with this room. The couch is against the only almost full wall. Tv is against the other 1/2 wall and the other 2 walls, have doors and windows on them.
help please, judy
Posted by: judy at June 2, 2006 1:25 PM
Help!!!
I live in a small town in Mississiooi and can't find any contractors to help or give me direction on putting a patio cover on my mobile home. Can you help me?
Posted by: Sharon at June 11, 2006 1:51 PM
Just bought a house with Redwood for siding that is really faded and weathered is there anything I can do to bring back the origanal color without hurting the wood.
Posted by: Mike A. at June 22, 2006 2:01 AM
You said a contractor should be insured and licensed. What about bonding? Also if a contractor does not complete the job-how do I get
it completed and does the insurance company pay
for it?
Posted by: Karen at June 22, 2006 6:03 PM
I am interested in building a house on my land in central Florida, & I want to build GREEN. So far, I have not been able to locate any builders who use drillable, recycled blocks and other environmentally savvy materials. Also, I would like to finde a builder who does a central atrium house. Any sources on such info ? Thanks in advance.
Posted by: Anne Millward at June 23, 2006 11:47 AM
We are trying to paint panel. The kitchen is very greasy. How can I get that grease off before painting?
Posted by: Tammy B. at June 23, 2006 2:09 PM
I need to know how to get grease off of my panelled walls before I paint them.I also need to know where to find this answer on this website. Where is it posted. I don't know my way around it. E-mail me.
Posted by: Tammy B. at June 23, 2006 2:16 PM
I had my roof shingled after they were finshed they informed me that they could not step flash my chimmneys because they are made of stone.
Posted by: Ron W at June 28, 2006 9:13 AM
provide everything in billiard, pool table, cue.etc
???
Posted by: Eric Wong at July 1, 2006 5:27 AM
I saw contractors in New Jersey using a simple concrete mixer I think called a crete sheet(not sure of spelling).Does anyone have experience using this to mix concrete and where did you purchase this item? Looks like a great diy tool.
Thanks, Jim
Posted by: James Keahey at July 5, 2006 3:30 PM
you have tips on :
"How to change the oil on a push mower"
but
"What about a Riding Mower"?
HI Kate,
My recommendation would be to ask the manufacturer of the mower. It is an easy process but all types are different. They will also tell you what grade oil to use. Try to recycle the used oil as well at a local gas station.
Cheers
Posted by: Kate at July 10, 2006 7:42 PM
oh
and also
I had alot of hardwoods down after katrina hit us
and I want to have then milled
what steps do I take to prepare them to be treated not to rot to use them for fencing?
and whatnot.
Thank You
Hi again,
It's best to stack them evenly off the ground with adequate support to prevent the wood from sagging and to allow air circulation. Try to cover it from the sun and rain. That way it will be ready for you when you have the time to erect and finish the wood.
Good luck and sorry to hear about the damage!
Posted by: Kate at July 10, 2006 7:46 PM
need imformation on installing a driveway drain before new driveway is laid. problem is i had a new garage floor put down,however the grade of the floor does not match the grade o f the driveway,so I'M stuck with placing a drain about 20 inches from the arpon of the garage,my question is how do I go about
placing the drain in, and how do I GET a grade from the arpon AN THE THE RIGHT GRADE OF THE DRIVEWAY.HOW DEEP DO I HAVE TO PLACE THE UNIT THANK YOU
Hi mate,
Set in a trench drain ( U shaped molded plastic drain) with a slotted grate parallel to the garage door opening. You can set this out a foot or so and set it lower than both levels. Set it in so to slope to one side. Run it into a pit and then run a 4" PVC line to the kerb or other storm water lines.
When pouring concrete just splay the concrete to the top of the trench drain in both directions.
This should take care of it.
Good luck Lougee
Posted by: lougee at July 16, 2006 11:52 AM
My husband and I are trying to begin plans to build a new house. I would like to try and do some of the work ourselves but we both work full time. However, we live in a small town in MS and most contractors I have talked to are so busy from katrina still that it could take till christmas before they are able to start. Is it possible to be my own contractor and if so, I need some major help in what direction to go next.
Posted by: Trichi at July 22, 2006 12:22 PM
I saw a DIY to the Rescue show tonight, 4/24, about a couple with bad wall boards, window trim, and crown molding which the owner could not cut. The carpenter showed him how to cut the crown with a miter saw. Question is what was the degrees on the saw? There were two numbers for doing the inside coner. It was to fast to get down in the show. Thanks for any help.
Posted by: Bobby at July 25, 2006 12:07 AM
ihave outside wall brick.top of windows to peak of roof brick has pulled away from wall help deteration maybe.what do you sugest i do?
Posted by: dennis anderson at August 1, 2006 10:06 AM
Although my husband is good at most DYI things, we bought a house in the heat of the Katrina thing with flattened "craftex" plaster walls. He is very good at repairing smooth plaster but this "groovey" stuff is something that he has never fooled with. I've checked around for books, web sites and people in the area that know the craft but have come up with nothing. We would like to move a doorway because when the front entrance door is open you can see into a bathroom. Problem is that there will be plaster repair that must be matched. Please help. This seems to be a lost art, or one which people do not care to preserve.
Posted by: Susan at August 2, 2006 8:20 AM
I HAVE A REALLY SMALL YARD. I WOULD SAY IT IS ABOUT 12' X 15' AND IS ALL BRICK. MY WIFE WANTS TO DRESS UP THIS COURT YARD (THIS IS WHAT SHE CALLS IT) AND I CAN'T FIND ANY PLANS OR BOOKS THAT DEAL WITH SUCH A SMALL YARD. I ALSO HAVE A SMALL SHED IN THE YARD AND WANT TO PUT A SMALL ROOF OVER THE DOOR TO DRESS THAT UP. CAN YOU PLAESE HELP WITH SOME IDEAS OR PLANS.
THANK YOU
BRUCE FROM PA.
Posted by: BRUCE at August 20, 2006 11:45 AM
I need info on bathtub refinishing. i.e. finding the right contractor. Is there more than omne method & if so, which is the best one, etc.
Hey,
There are many bath refinishers out there. Just check out your local ones and make sure they give you a warranty. They will generally only give you up to 3 years. It's a great way to make a bath look brand new & they can even coat the waste outlet in a color or chrome without replacing it.
Make sure they protect all other surfaces as the spray does not come off!
KC
Posted by: Israel at August 24, 2006 5:03 PM
On one of your kitchen shows, i think it was wasted spaces you used cabinets out of boxes. I would like to know the name brand if possible. Love your show.
Thank you
Posted by: Robert Jones at August 28, 2006 8:52 PM
I just moved to Maryland from Georgia and am in the process of purchasing a home in Cecil County Maryland. The house I am buying needs some serious updating, especially in the kitchen. Even my friends who have looked at the website wehre I put the pictures say the kitchen needs to go. I have some ideas on how to redo it but realy need help in putting the right look together. There are some other smaller scale things I would also like to do with the house, such as remove the wallpaper and repaint the entire house.
My problem is that I don't know enough people here that can help me and I'm weary of finding someone out of the phone book because I want to get the best value for my money for a reasonable price and not some fly by night kind of person that is just after my money.
Due to my work schedule and severe lack of knowledge on how to do most of what needs to be done, I am unable to do the work myself so hiring a contractor is best for my situation. Where do I start, besides the phone book, on finding the best person for the job who will give me the right price?
Thanks for any help and assistance.
YL
Posted by: YL at September 3, 2006 1:17 PM
I have windows where the seals have broken. The windows are all foggy. Any way to repair?? :-(
Posted by: pat at September 9, 2006 6:26 AM
I love your show, just wished you had more time to explain procedures, techniques.
Keep up the excellent work
D
Thanks!
I wish we could explain more in detail as well. If we had an hour I think we could cover much more.
Salute
KC
Posted by: DATKINSON at September 24, 2006 10:17 AM
I have a bathroom I just finished, I have a moister problem, around the shower,the walls get so moist you can see water run down them, Why is this happening when I have 2 exhaust fans in the room? and how can I fix it?
Do you have any cross ventilation? At least one window and a door?
It seems to be that your exhaust fans are not strong enough or are to small in diameter.
Try running the fans with a window or a door open next time.
I hope this works for you.
Posted by: Michael Armes at September 27, 2006 9:21 PM
Re: your shows aired 30 /spetember, 2006. On Home Maintenance: Not 14 square inches but 14 inches square or approx: 200 square inches. As for DIY To The Rescue: mil is for 1/000 per inch thickness not millimeter.
Thanks mate ?
Posted by: M Rowden at September 30, 2006 8:21 PM
I GOT A PROBLEM; IN REMOLDING OUR BATHROOM INTO A LAUNDRY/BATHROOM IT WOULD INVOLVE MOVING THE SHOWER/BATH BELOW A "WOOD" WINDOW.THIS WINDOW WOULD BE IN THE SHOWER AREA--ABOVE LEFT SHOULDER. i HAVE FEARS OF MELDOW, ROT,AND PRIVATCY BECAUSE OF THIS WINDOW. ANY CONSTRUCTION IDEAS--WITHOUT PUTTING IN GLASS BLOCKS--OR CLOSING IT ---CURRENT SIDING IS NO LONGER IN PRODUCTION--WITH TILE OR
OTHER MATERIALS? WOULD APPRECIATE YOUR HELP, OR REFERENCE. DON K
Posted by: D J KOST at March 15, 2008 12:32 PM
