Starting a home remodeling project, and think hiring a general contractor to oversee and coordinate the project just means allocating a larger budget?
For some homeowners with remodeling experience, that may be the case. But they’ll still incur the cost of additional time and strain of planning it all themselves. For others with no or less experience in making extensive home improvements, a general contractor can help you see the big picture by coordinating and executing a Room Addition, Kitchen or Bathroom design that dramatically updates and improves your living space.
A residential general contractor with a reputable background designs the space for efficiency, functionality and beauty. A GC also knows who to hire when a project requires the services of a framer and insulation specialist, electrician, plumber, countertop installer, cabinet contractor, flooring and tile work pro, and a painter. He knows which subcontractors do the best work at the best price, as well as where to find the right materials for a good price.
Here are 4 reasons to hire a general contractor for home remodeling projects, so you can save time, money and your sanity:
1. Project Coordination
Remodeling any room in your home requires coordinating with various vendors and subcontractors. Electrical and plumbing work must happen while structural changes are in progress. Changes to countertops and cabinets need to be incorporated into the overall design and room layout. Also, keep in mind custom materials, from countertops to showers doors, require field measures and templates for proper size and ideal installation.
Time is definitely of the essence when it comes to scheduling all of this work. A general contractor will know when to schedule each area of work and plan around crews so they don’t get in each other’s way. A general contractor focuses on the entire job, working to complete it on time and within budget.
2. Room Layout and Design
Stephanie Larmor, Interior Designer
Sometimes, the best intentions can turn into your worst nightmare. Say you’ve decided to update your kitchen with new countertops and appliances, but you think the cabinets have a few more years in them. A year from now, you may kick yourself for not replacing or refinishing those outdated cabinets that really don’t match the high-end feel of your new granite countertops and stainless steel appliances.
At Central Construction Group, interior designer Stephanie Larmor takes your remodeling ideas for a new kitchen and creates a 3D rendering so you can see the whole space and make changes in real time. “If you have to take out the countertops and put them back in, they may break or get damaged,” Larmor says. “It’s very hard to salvage countertops.”
Same goes for a new backsplash. Make sure the cabinetry is in good shape, the countertops are what you want, and the kitchen layout functions well for your family now and into the future. Hiring a general contractor helps to see the whole remodeling picture, while also providing a valuable resource for solving any pain points.
3. Material Selection
Ever walked into a tile showroom and became completely overwhelmed with the vast array of choices? You are not alone. With so many pieces and parts involved in a bathroom remodel or kitchen remodel, it’s always helpful to have a seasoned construction professional guide you through selecting the right materials.
Tile, in particular, comes in so many choices, including color, size, pattern, finish and texture. Bathroom design revolves heavily around tile selection. You may be able to find floor tile easily, but you’ll also need to coordinate with other tiles in the space, from bathroom and shower walls to shower floors and backsplash.
Carrara Marble is a popular tile, due to its natural white and grey veining and classic, timeless style. Apply this type of marble to the bath or shower walls (minimal traffic areas) to keep the natural stone looking new. Try a durable ceramic or porcelain tile for the bathroom floor (moderate traffic area) in a 12-by-24-inch or larger size. Using a larger tile reduces the need for grout joints, which can become busy in a small space.
4. Accurate Measurements
Accurate measurements also matter greatly when planning any remodeling project. Sure, you can go to a home improvement store and get a 3D design, but if you provide the wrong measurements it can have a detrimental effect on the whole project.
Larmor says CCG takes its own accurate measurements of the space and she often accompanies clients when shopping to guide them through material selection. “Tell us what you like and don’t like,” Larmor says. “You don’t have to do anything else, I will guide you throughout the process.”
Homeowners who hire a general contractor to oversee a remodeling project also get peace of mind from knowing professionals are handling compliance with building codes, permits and other technical issues.
Contact CCG today for a free consultation. We’d love to partner with you as your GC.
