Moxie Posted May 25, 2017 Share Posted May 25, 2017 We're getting closer to actually fixing this kitchen!! So, do I hire a contractor? Is that the first step (after talking to the bank)? Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
gardenmom5 Posted May 25, 2017 Share Posted May 25, 2017 (edited) Are you moving walls? Are they bearing walls? Doors, windows? What is the condition of your electrical? Plumbing? It depends upon the scope of the work. Edited May 25, 2017 by gardenmom5 1 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
hellen Posted May 25, 2017 Share Posted May 25, 2017 You need to spend some time on the Gardenweb kitchen forums. It's a wealth of information. You'll end up with a more functional kitchen if you spend time on the site learning about kitchen design, materials, and contactors. http://ths.gardenweb.com/forums/kitchbath Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
wintermom Posted May 25, 2017 Share Posted May 25, 2017 We did, and I'm so glad. There are a million small details that came up and neither dh nor I would have been able to solve. Dh and I did a lot of the prep and grunt work, and the contractor did the skill stuff. Another bonus to having an outside person, is that there is an accountability for time spent on the project. And there was attention to detail right up to the finished product. Dh and I would have dragged out the project and not finished things to "perfection." Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Scarlett Posted May 25, 2017 Share Posted May 25, 2017 So excited for you! Whether you get a contractor depends on your level of knowledge and skill 2 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest Posted May 25, 2017 Share Posted May 25, 2017 So excited for you! Whether you get a contractor depends on your level of knowledge and skill I feel like, having to ask the question means I don't have the knowledge or skill to be my own contractor, right? DH wants to hire a contractor but I worry it will cost extra. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
zoobie Posted May 26, 2017 Share Posted May 26, 2017 I feel like, having to ask the question means I don't have the knowledge or skill to be my own contractor, right? DH wants to hire a contractor but I worry it will cost extra. Here, the general contractor typically charges a 10% fee. But you save some money because the contractor gets you discounts. And it should save you hassle because the contractor handles all the permitting, scheduling, ordering, and ensuring that everything is done correctly. 2 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
elegantlion Posted May 26, 2017 Share Posted May 26, 2017 It also depends upon some of your zoning regulations. If you install new plumbing or electrical you may need a licensed individual to do that work. If you're just changing cabinets and installing a new sink type of stuff, you may not, depending upon your comfort level with DIY projects. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Arctic Bunny Posted May 26, 2017 Share Posted May 26, 2017 It could save you a lot of money, too, especially if your time is money. Lining up the different trades so they're there at the right time, knowing how much of what to order, etc Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
amy g. Posted May 26, 2017 Share Posted May 26, 2017 I've done it without a contractor and with one. I got a much better kitchen when I was the one hiring the workers and supervising the quality. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest Posted May 26, 2017 Share Posted May 26, 2017 It depends on the scope of the work and your personality. It would be very bad for me to do the contracting work myself because I hate confrontation. And confrontation will happen. But some people can do this really well--I have a friend who is so good at it, I think I might actually enjoy being chewed out. But I am not that person. Nor am I Landlord Material. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Carrie12345 Posted May 26, 2017 Share Posted May 26, 2017 If I were moving major components (walls, windows, plumbing, electric,) absolutely. If I were just getting new appliances, cabinets, counters, and floors, I'd cheap out and manage the project myself. But I like to manage. :-) I also like to do some things myself, which means I'd probably spend the money on a goof up, anyway. :-( Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
rjand6more Posted May 26, 2017 Share Posted May 26, 2017 Dh is a painting contractor. He often goes to jobs where the homeowner is the general. More times than not, the homeowner asks him who he recommends to do the tile, plumbing, etc. He usually acts as the unofficial general (more of a consultant). Unless you know a timeline of subcontractors, what to order, when to plan, what permits(if any), it's often better to hire someone who can organize it. It can be cheaper to hire contractors in the right order(ie. paint before trim and floor) Congrats! BTW. :) Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Recommended Posts
Join the conversation
You can post now and register later. If you have an account, sign in now to post with your account.