Architects
An architect will draw plans required for construction, if you are
seeking a building permit, for example. Architects generally charge
a flat fee for drawings, and then extra to oversee work being carried
out (normally a percentage of the final building bill, ranging from
5 to 25 percent). If the architect is going to oversee work, check
what this entails and get it in writing.
Masons and bricklayers
Bricklayers tend to solely lay bricks and blocks, whereas masons will
also build natural stone walls and construct special stone features.
Charges for stone and masonry work are normally based on every 1,000
bricks laid, or a lump-sum price for a specific job, such as building
a chimney. If you hire a bricklayer, specify the brick type and insist
on seeing samples.
Builders
Large building companies manage trade contractors to do the work on
your behalf. Smaller building companies or general contractors will
normally have trade skill sets themselves, such as carpentry or bricklaying,
but may also become the project manager for part or all of the work
being carried out. The builder may include this cost in the submitted
price, or charge a further percentage on top of the final cost. Get
this in writing before work starts.
Carpenters and joiners
Finish carpenters assemble custom-made, wood-based items such as doors and windows, whereas rough carpenters or framers will fit these items
into your home, and tackle structural tasks. There are overlaps between
the two. A good carpenter can be invaluable in complex tasks, such
as calculating complex roof layouts. With a finish carpenter, be clear
on specifications for any items that you have commissioned him to make.
If he is making custom cabinets, for example, make sure that he specifies
the type of wood and the finish detail. The difference in quality and price, can vary greatly.
Electricians
An electrician will carry out all types of electrical work, usually
for the wiring of outlets, light switches, phones, and televisions.
Most states require electricians to be certified but specific requirements
may vary by county and state jurisdictions. Check with the city building
department about the specific type(s) of required certification and /or
licenses and verify that your electrician meets those requirements.
Flooring installers
General flooring companies can tackle any floor requests, ranging
from initial leveling to waxing a hardwood floor, for example. However,
make sure they have the relevant experience in all areas. You can also
employ carpet installers, wooden floor specialists, or floor tilers.
Excavators
Before a building starts to go up, excavators generally do all the
preparatory work, including digging for foundations and routes for
drainage and utilities. Many are employed by a builder, but some work
independently. It can save time and money to employ an excavator and his equipment for the day to carry out all of the heavy earth- moving
requirements on a project.
Laborers
Skill and experience in this trade vary greatly. Good laborers are
skilled at helping another trade to finish a job. General laborers
will price themselves based on knowledge and experience, and hourly
rates will vary widely. Personal recommendation is essential.
Painters and decorators
A good decorator will carry out all aspects of decorative coatings,
including painting, papering, and , in some cases, tiling. Specialist
tilers sometimes tile both walls and floors as a full-time occupation.
Good decorators can provide very-high-quality finishes—a preferable
option when looking to hang expensive wallpaper, for example. Make
sure that the number of coats, type of paint, and general quality of
materials is specified in any painting lob. Decorators can be an excellent
source of ideas for new effects and finishes.
Drywall repair
Minimal drywall repair is easily done by the “do-it-yourselfer” but
large scale jobs require skill. Pricing for repair work is usually
set according to square footage or estimated time. Check that the price
includes all coats required and whether painting is included. They
may also offer “tacking” services—cutting and fixing drywall before
repair.
Plumbers and heating contractors
There is often an overlap in expertise between plumbers and heating
contractors. When installing, servicing, or maintaining a gas- or oil-fired
furnace, they must have the relevant county and state certification/licensing.
If you do not have experience in working with gas or propane piping,
hire a professional. For general plumbing work such as installing tubs
or toilets, the law is less exacting but most often also requires state
or local licensing. Always find out what is required by your area before
you hire one of these specialty trades. |