For questions relating to the subject of general contractors for home construction, including soliciting or making bids, working with or under a general contractor, handling payment, and warranty considerations.
12
votes
15answers
571 views
What do you do/ask when hiring a contractor
In a world where every guy with a truck full of tools is a "contractor", how do you weed out the good from the bad?
5
votes
2answers
2k views
How can I get low water pressure in sprinkler system fixed?
I have a new house that is still under warranty. Compared to at least two of my neighbors whose houses were built by the same builder and have very similar sprinkler systems, my sprinklers put out ...
6
votes
7answers
582 views
Best review sites/web resources for finding a contractor?
Many times we need to hire a contractor and try to extensively google for reviews on that contractor. Sometimes to no avail :(
Just curious what web resources you use when trying to find a ...
5
votes
1answer
218 views
What kind of contractor would I need to service or replace pull down attic stairs?
I have attic loft with pull down stairs access to it and I need it either serviced or replaced with a new rope system. Can you advice what kind of contractor I'd need for this?
As you can see on the ...
2
votes
1answer
120 views
What information do I need to give a general contractor to get a good quote?
I'm looking to do some major renovations:
removing an interior wall
removing popcorn ceilings
new kitchen (layout, appliances, counters, cabinets, etc)
new master bath
new flooring throughout
new ...
0
votes
0answers
594 views
Is a roofing company responsible for fixing a leak and water damage 2 1/2 years after roof replacement? [closed]
I bought a new home two and a half years ago. The previous owners has the roof replaced before we closed as a condition of the sale.
Now, at the corner of the screen porch, there is a place where ...
-1
votes
1answer
2k views
How much is a good estimate for a pro to add a railing to stairs? [closed]
Earlier I asked a question about how to add a railing to one side of a stairway: How should I add a rail on a carpeted stairway that's open on one side?
One of the comments mentioned that I ...
5
votes
3answers
96 views
How can I determine if a contractor has a valid license?
Is there a website that you can check to see if a contractor is licensed and is valid? Is it a state by state thing, or is their a national database as well?
0
votes
0answers
77 views
Best Books on Home Construction Bidding [closed]
Specifically, I'm looking for a book that would help even the professional home builder improve his/her bidding techniques.
3
votes
1answer
83 views
It is reasonable to expect a contractor to replace the last foot of HVAC duct work, the connection between the insulated duct and the register?
The contract was to replace an antiquated HVAC and duct work. Since the registers are a standard size, would this connection also be a standard pre-fabricated part?
What is that last connection ...
2
votes
3answers
846 views
Where should I look to rent time on a router table?
I have a woodworking project which requires a CNC router table. It would need a decent sized table for the 36" x 28" panels. Somebody that spends thousands of dollars on one of these machines must ...
4
votes
3answers
290 views
Kind of contractor to hire to install new basement window, where there was none before?
A family member is interested in getting their basement finished, and one of the things they'd like to do is have an additional bedroom in the basement. The bedroom should have a window. However, ...
4
votes
2answers
101 views
DIYer to skilled tradesperson
What is the process a DIYer has to go through to become a skilled tradesperson? Are the only options apprenticeships, or are there other paths to follow to learn a trade/become licensed?
What type ...
6
votes
1answer
161 views
How to effectively fire a contractor and avoid liens or other legal issues
There may come a time despite all the research, when you realize the contractor you hired just isn't up to snuff. what is the best way to fire them and avoid liens or legal battles?
Is this something ...
4
votes
1answer
417 views
Gluing Hardwood Floors?
We recently had our house built, and included the "hardwood floors" upgrade. When we moved it we were pleased with the way the floors looked. Some time later, water started coming up from beneath the ...
