Granite fever struck without warning. That’s what it seemed like anyway. For about 6 months the inquiries for granite countertops were as if the Naperville area put something in the water. I’m certainly not complaining, quite the opposite, and the fever brought additional benefits that I can now pass on to you. I typically only provide granite countertop service for my remodeling customers, but I handled …
August 22, 2012
|
Category: Home Remodeling
Comments Off on Roadside Signs For Cheap Granite Countertops
July 18, 2012
|
Category: Home Remodeling
Comments Off on Sub Surface Issues On a Remodeling Project
Most reputable home remodeling contractors will have what we term a “Subsurface Clause” in our contracts. It’s how this clause is used that differentiates the good guys from the bad guy horror stories you hear about. Bad Guy Tactic Let’s just call this tactic a form of optimism that only works in the bad guy’s favor. It is fairly easy to identify because the bad guy’s …
There is a common myth lately promoted by the media that you can negotiate legitimate contractor’s prices down. Most of us realize that the media is not unbiased and must look out for their own business interests by selling news. The fact is, there really is no such thing as negotiating with legitimate contractors without a loss on your part. With the economy being what it …
May 16, 2012
|
Category: Contractor Relations
Comments Off on Avoiding Dishonest Contractor Techniques
Having a very detailed contract with your remodeling contractor cannot be emphasized enough! Pay special attention to the “change order” section, the “subsurface issue clause” and the “scope of work” proposed. A reputable and experienced remodeling contractor will know most of the potential issues that might be uncovered when opening up walls, and will build a little extra in to the quote to deal with these …
These days, you need a permit for almost everything. This isn’t just to make your life more difficult, it could mean the difference between being safe and putting your home and family in jeopardy. When in doubt…ask. As a general rule, any type of home remodeling project requires a permit. You can actually use this to your advantage while you are interviewing contractors. Just ask about …
April 20, 2012
|
Category: Contractor Relations
Comments Off on Calling a General Contractor For a Minor Repair
As a rule, most general contractors prefer not to deal with “smaller” jobs. By smaller, I am referring to jobs such as changing a switch or replacing a kitchen sink. However, most of us general contractors welcome calls asking about minor repairs. Here’s why. Reputable contractors by necessity maintain good working relationships with subcontractors for every imaginable trade your home would need. Calling a general contractor …
April 16, 2012
|
Category: Contractor Relations
Comments Off on Illinois Licensing and Finding a Reputable Contractor
Sorting through contractors to find the reputable ones is no easy task for you, and Illinois licensing laws can add to the confusion unless they are explained simply like I am about to do for you. First, current Illinois laws regarding construction trades only require roofers and plumbers to be licensed through the State. You would think electricians would be included in this, but licensing for …
April 16, 2012
|
Category: Contractor Relations
Comments Off on Discussing Your Budget With a Remodeling Contractor
Should you be discussing your budget with a remodeling contractor? This is a plaguing question you face that can unnecessarily infringe on the excitement of having your home remodeled. The fact that you’ll find opinions both ways doesn’t help either, but the following is a way to simplify the matter. At first, when I tell you the answer is both yes and no, that may sound …
