May
30
Edwin Brown asked:
Hiring a plaster contractor may be the wisest choice when you decide to repair and renovate your old plaster walls and ceilings.
• when you don’t have confidence that you can learn to repair your own plaster
• when you don’t have the time to do it yourself
• when you want a plaster contractor to just come in and do it fast
But … be prepared to spend some money. Professionals can provide convenience but they
don’t come cheap. Depending on where you live (US), you can spend anywhere from 35 to 65 dollars an hour or more (‘07) on your plaster contractor, depending on the kind of work you need done.
That being the case, might you be interested in some tips to help you get those old plaster walls and ceilings done for less money? Sure you would!
As a plaster repair and renovation expert myself, I love it when my client does things to get ready for me. That way, I can get into the part that I am specialized to do right away, without spending valuable time doing prep things he could just as easily do.
So here is what I suggest. When you make first contact with your (potential) plaster contractor, ask him - what can I do by way of preparation to make your job go easier? And … will this save me money?
When I have a client eager to help, here are some things I tell them to do.
• empty the room of all furnishings, pictures, etc. (if this is an extensive project).
• cover the floors well with flattened cardboard. (important if old plaster will be removed).
• wash all areas to be repaired to remove dust, grease, fingerprints, cleaning agent residues, etc.
These may seem like common sense things, but you might be surprised at how many people don’t even think of these things - until maybe after I have arrived.
I will cover the cardboard myself with my drop materials, but the cardboard protects a hardwood floor. Old paneling or plywood will work even better.. When removing old plaster from wood lath, it is very easy to have chunks fall to the floor and they can really dent that fine hardwood. The cardboard helps prevent damage.
Anything like dirt, grease, etc. will interfere with the adhesion of new plaster materials to the old painted surfaces. So we need to get it off.
If the old plaster is to receive a new veneer coat, any plaster contractor worth his salt will put on a bonding agent first. He will roll or spray it on. This provides that extra “stickum,” as I call it - insurance for getting a good bond.
If this is the case with your project, ask your prospective contractor if he would give you a break in price if you roll on the bonding agent yourself. He will want to furnish it, but you save him time if you can do the application. It’s easy - just roll on like paint.
If your plastering project is quite extensive, involving taking off all the old plaster down to the wood lath, your plaster contractor will probably be quite pleased to offload that task to you. And if you are also responsible for all the debris removal and cleanup, he will be ecstatic.
You will want to investigate local contractors and get estimates. You can talk to building contractors and see who they like to use for their plastering projects.
For real convenience, you can go online at my website and use my free service to get free, no obligation bids from plaster contractors in your area. See the author’s information below.
How far you can go in helping your plaster contractor will depend on his cooperation and your available time. But with these basic tips, the potential for saving a nice amount of money on your plaster repair and renovation project is there. It’s up to you to be proactive and see how far you can (or want) to go.
DUDLEY
Hiring a plaster contractor may be the wisest choice when you decide to repair and renovate your old plaster walls and ceilings.
• when you don’t have confidence that you can learn to repair your own plaster
________________________________________________________________________
• when you don’t have the time to do it yourself
• when you want a plaster contractor to just come in and do it fast
But … be prepared to spend some money. Professionals can provide convenience but they
don’t come cheap. Depending on where you live (US), you can spend anywhere from 35 to 65 dollars an hour or more (‘07) on your plaster contractor, depending on the kind of work you need done.
That being the case, might you be interested in some tips to help you get those old plaster walls and ceilings done for less money? Sure you would!
As a plaster repair and renovation expert myself, I love it when my client does things to get ready for me. That way, I can get into the part that I am specialized to do right away, without spending valuable time doing prep things he could just as easily do.
So here is what I suggest. When you make first contact with your (potential) plaster contractor, ask him - what can I do by way of preparation to make your job go easier? And … will this save me money?
When I have a client eager to help, here are some things I tell them to do.
• empty the room of all furnishings, pictures, etc. (if this is an extensive project).
• cover the floors well with flattened cardboard. (important if old plaster will be removed).
• wash all areas to be repaired to remove dust, grease, fingerprints, cleaning agent residues, etc.
These may seem like common sense things, but you might be surprised at how many people don’t even think of these things - until maybe after I have arrived.
I will cover the cardboard myself with my drop materials, but the cardboard protects a hardwood floor. Old paneling or plywood will work even better.. When removing old plaster from wood lath, it is very easy to have chunks fall to the floor and they can really dent that fine hardwood. The cardboard helps prevent damage.
Anything like dirt, grease, etc. will interfere with the adhesion of new plaster materials to the old painted surfaces. So we need to get it off.
If the old plaster is to receive a new veneer coat, any plaster contractor worth his salt will put on a bonding agent first. He will roll or spray it on. This provides that extra “stickum,” as I call it - insurance for getting a good bond.
If this is the case with your project, ask your prospective contractor if he would give you a break in price if you roll on the bonding agent yourself. He will want to furnish it, but you save him time if you can do the application. It’s easy - just roll on like paint.
If your plastering project is quite extensive, involving taking off all the old plaster down to the wood lath, your plaster contractor will probably be quite pleased to offload that task to you. And if you are also responsible for all the debris removal and cleanup, he will be ecstatic.
You will want to investigate local contractors and get estimates. You can talk to building contractors and see who they like to use for their plastering projects.
For real convenience, you can go online at my website and use my free service to get free, no obligation bids from plaster contractors in your area. See the author’s information below.
How far you can go in helping your plaster contractor will depend on his cooperation and your available time. But with these basic tips, the potential for saving a nice amount of money on your plaster repair and renovation project is there. It’s up to you to be proactive and see how far you can (or want) to go.
DUDLEY
May
29
RT asked:
We signed a contract for bathroom construction with a contractor. The work was to be completed on Jan. 31st. Now it is May.
Since he has broken the contract, I want to know what all things I need to get from him (building permit, etc) before I forget about him. I still have not paid him in full as the work is not done.
CORNELL
________________________________________________________________________
We signed a contract for bathroom construction with a contractor. The work was to be completed on Jan. 31st. Now it is May.
Since he has broken the contract, I want to know what all things I need to get from him (building permit, etc) before I forget about him. I still have not paid him in full as the work is not done.
CORNELL
May
28
General Contractors - Remodeling Contractors in La County, Orange County, Ventura County and San Diego County!
Filed Under Home Improvement | Leave a Comment
eling Contractors asked:
Los Angeles Kitchen & Bath is an owner operated business with over 9 years of experience specialize in bathroom and kitchen home remodeling.
LAKB is serving LA county, ORANGE county, VENTURA county and SAN DIEGO county.
Los Angeles Kitchen & Bath is a licensed, bonded and insured company. We provides most everything you need to remodel your home, including;
Bathroom remodeling: The bathroom is both personal and public most useful room in your home. It can be one of the most enjoyable and spoiling rooms in your home. With our 3D design program, LAKB will illustrate your desired bathroom. Using a variety of materials like: tile, granite, travertine, marble, showers, Jacuzzi, tubs and more, help us upgrade the look and the use of your bathroom. In LAKB we learned to work according to your budget and help you remodel your bathroom or redesign a complete bathroom.
Kitchen remodeling: Kitchen is usually the heart and the most focal point of your home. LAKB Remodeling found a way to make your dreams come true with a 3D design computerized program that illustrate you visually the way your kitchen will be looking like. We do: new cabinets, refacing, pre-fab and custom made cabinets. We use variety of colors and materials. LAKB will work and find ways to achieve the kitchen of your dreams with your affordable budget.
products, Home Addition and New Construction, from several hundred brand-name manufacturers in the U.S. LAKB also designs Kitchens, Offices, Closet organizers and much more. LAKB offers a huge selection of various tiles, flooring, fixtures, countertops and cabinetry, all to be customized to your specifications.
With number one source of business being referrals from happy clients, we strive to create a beautiful environment for your day-to-day life, but also enjoy developing a lasting relationship with you the customer that often results in repeat business.
We are committed to providing the highest quality of construction services in an atmosphere of mutual trust and respect. Our capabilities, talents, and experience will demonstrate how we not only excel at construction; but at how we establish this relationship of trust that can be counted and relied upon for every project we perform for you.
Come enjoy a remodeling experience that promises to be pleasant from beginning to end!
Call Us Now And Get A FREE Estimate! 8002397439
You Can Also Visit Our Web Site: http://www.losangeleskb.com
MONROE
________________________________________________________________________
Los Angeles Kitchen & Bath is an owner operated business with over 9 years of experience specialize in bathroom and kitchen home remodeling.
LAKB is serving LA county, ORANGE county, VENTURA county and SAN DIEGO county.
Los Angeles Kitchen & Bath is a licensed, bonded and insured company. We provides most everything you need to remodel your home, including;
Bathroom remodeling: The bathroom is both personal and public most useful room in your home. It can be one of the most enjoyable and spoiling rooms in your home. With our 3D design program, LAKB will illustrate your desired bathroom. Using a variety of materials like: tile, granite, travertine, marble, showers, Jacuzzi, tubs and more, help us upgrade the look and the use of your bathroom. In LAKB we learned to work according to your budget and help you remodel your bathroom or redesign a complete bathroom.
Kitchen remodeling: Kitchen is usually the heart and the most focal point of your home. LAKB Remodeling found a way to make your dreams come true with a 3D design computerized program that illustrate you visually the way your kitchen will be looking like. We do: new cabinets, refacing, pre-fab and custom made cabinets. We use variety of colors and materials. LAKB will work and find ways to achieve the kitchen of your dreams with your affordable budget.
products, Home Addition and New Construction, from several hundred brand-name manufacturers in the U.S. LAKB also designs Kitchens, Offices, Closet organizers and much more. LAKB offers a huge selection of various tiles, flooring, fixtures, countertops and cabinetry, all to be customized to your specifications.
With number one source of business being referrals from happy clients, we strive to create a beautiful environment for your day-to-day life, but also enjoy developing a lasting relationship with you the customer that often results in repeat business.
We are committed to providing the highest quality of construction services in an atmosphere of mutual trust and respect. Our capabilities, talents, and experience will demonstrate how we not only excel at construction; but at how we establish this relationship of trust that can be counted and relied upon for every project we perform for you.
Come enjoy a remodeling experience that promises to be pleasant from beginning to end!
Call Us Now And Get A FREE Estimate! 8002397439
You Can Also Visit Our Web Site: http://www.losangeleskb.com
MONROE
May
27
Why can’t I get any contractor to come out for an estimate?
Filed Under Other - Home & Garden | Leave a Comment
Mom of 2 great boys asked:
This is so weird. Up North I never had this problem. I live near Charlotte, NC and we are trying to build a large, and I mean large garage with other things that will probably cost us around $40k.
This is so weird. Up North I never had this problem. I live near Charlotte, NC and we are trying to build a large, and I mean large garage with other things that will probably cost us around $40k.
I have called several contractors to come out for an estimate, and no one shows up! They set an appointment and no show.
Why? Do they have that much work that they don’t need a job?
I have looked on the internet, phone book, you name it, and these are reputable companies and no one will come.
Any suggestions?
Please don’t say, do it ourselves, believe me, if my husband had the time he would, but he travels out of town often.
Absolutly not, we do not live in a rough neighborhood.
Very easy to get too.
We called each one back, and they say that they will get to us.
Go figure. We have tried several different times of the year, being the summer most contractors have a lot of work going on.
Again, never did we have this problem in NY.
ERNESTO
May
24
Is any one looking for a General Contractor in Northern California?
Filed Under Other - US Local Businesses | Leave a Comment
Kiger Construction asked:
My name is Mike Kiger, I am a licenced CA Contractor looking for a house to build. I’m based out of Tahoe but I am happy to travel. I can build your dream home.
JESS
My name is Mike Kiger, I am a licenced CA Contractor looking for a house to build. I’m based out of Tahoe but I am happy to travel. I can build your dream home.
JESS
May
24
How do I build a deck?
Filed Under Do It Yourself (DIY) | Leave a Comment
Melly asked:
I want to build a deck around my pool that is 52 inches deep and 15 feet across. I’ve been looking online and I can only find patio decks. I have no idea how to make the wood curve and such. Help please?
I want to build a deck around my pool that is 52 inches deep and 15 feet across. I’ve been looking online and I can only find patio decks. I have no idea how to make the wood curve and such. Help please?
P.S: Don’t tell me to get a contractor because I can’t afford one.
TY
May
23
What type of insurance should an owner-builder carry during course of construction?
Filed Under Insurance | Leave a Comment
Ronthewhit asked:
Our family is building a second home. We have a general contractor who is putting up the shell. However, we will be doing all of the interior and exterior finishing ourselves. We have tried to get a home owner’s insurance policy, but they won’t cover us until we have the house finaled. We are looking for both coverage for the cost of the structure and liability insurance. What kind of policy should we be looking for and what type of insurance agents should we be contacting?
EDDIE
Our family is building a second home. We have a general contractor who is putting up the shell. However, we will be doing all of the interior and exterior finishing ourselves. We have tried to get a home owner’s insurance policy, but they won’t cover us until we have the house finaled. We are looking for both coverage for the cost of the structure and liability insurance. What kind of policy should we be looking for and what type of insurance agents should we be contacting?
EDDIE
May
20
alwaysworking asked:
My wife severely injured / broke her ankle on a landing that had no rail or fall protection provided. The general contractor was responsible for the framing of the steps and the landings ( the entire house) he also carried the building permit and is responsible for any injuries resulting form the contractor operations as his contract states. He refuses to give me the name of his insurance co. I have sent him a demand letter, explanations, but no insurance co. has contacted me yet. I want to talk to his ins co. to try to settle this before I hire my attorney.
BRIAN
My wife severely injured / broke her ankle on a landing that had no rail or fall protection provided. The general contractor was responsible for the framing of the steps and the landings ( the entire house) he also carried the building permit and is responsible for any injuries resulting form the contractor operations as his contract states. He refuses to give me the name of his insurance co. I have sent him a demand letter, explanations, but no insurance co. has contacted me yet. I want to talk to his ins co. to try to settle this before I hire my attorney.
BRIAN
May
20
Bucky for Prez asked:
Need help form electrical contractor or electrician!! I am looking to sort electrical work by category, I have an ideal of breaking the categories by security systems, fire safety, building controls, fiber optics V/D/V, Maintenance/Service/Repair. But what would residential wiring be classified as or other categories I am missing.
MONTE
Need help form electrical contractor or electrician!! I am looking to sort electrical work by category, I have an ideal of breaking the categories by security systems, fire safety, building controls, fiber optics V/D/V, Maintenance/Service/Repair. But what would residential wiring be classified as or other categories I am missing.
MONTE
May
19
Omion Emmanuel asked:
To get a building constructed can be very easy if you follow these steps I will be explaining to you. Before you begin at all or planning to do anything is better you know what is involved on that thing, and in your plan know how much you are going to spend,and you need to know the numbers of people you’ll be using so that you don’t end up paying people on your site that didn’t work for the day.
There are stages in building constructions that you must follow and requirements of labor varies but have it in your mind that anybody you bring to your site, work or not, they will have to be paid. And in case your first plan doesn’t work you can try another one.
A lot of books are out there advertising new innovations on building, you may be surprised to find out that what you need right now are right in those papers , and you have more opportunities of alternatives.
The reputation of your professional or contractor; how honest is he and which of his past jobs can he point to? who can stand for him, or recommend him to carry out your job.
Make sure this person is actually qualified for the job.
Whatever you estimate, our economy is besiege by unending inflation, you will always be expected to spend more at the end of the day, so earmark 20% of the estimate for your building for exigencies, though make sure you don’t stretch your budget to the limit, or what is the essence of a shelter if you don’t have money to provide food for you and your family?
It is important you approve your building plan because of future occurrences, the government can decide to turn your building to a road, what will you use to fight back or at least be paid compensation for your property. If you are a businessman with an approved plan you can turn your property as a collateral to obtain loan from the bank to help your business.
You and your contractor must have written agreement on a specific task he is to perform and also documents amount you pay him and always let him sign under to confirm amount of money you have paid to him, if you fail to do this, the probability is very high that you’ll quarrel over money with your contractor as the job progresses. I have seen several cases of this. If you feel what he’s charging is a bit on the high side is better you price lower and find out how your building will reflect the amount of money you are paying. Though the cheapest price is not always the best and the cheapest at the long run may end up being the costliest.
The safety of your workers on site is very important to avoid disaster let your contractor stipulates his health measures for his workers especially in a large building.
When you are not sure of a step you are about to take, please don’t hesitate to ask the professionals before you embark on it, it may ruin your plans when you don’t seek advice, and local contractors and professionals can be of immense benefits also when you need them at short notice. Remember you are employing and creating a job by giving out your project to be managed by a professional who may actually be your friend, but in this case this is business and should be treated as such.
When purchasing materials, always go for the best quality and don’t hesitate to ask for discounts, you will be shocked by the amount of money that will be returned to you. When your contractor is offering you a deal that is too sweet to your hearing and too generous to your purse then you may be heading for disaster. Building work is not always as smooth sailing as some people will make you believe.
You can also save cost unknowingly when you build the biggest possible size you can afford as it will cost less if done at the initial stage rather than as extension later on especially when you are sure of your capabilities.
There is no need for being unnecessarily apprehensive to get your building completed very fast, be patient to watch out for favorable weather when building and also give room for waste management, so that you don’t end up having no space for your septic, refuse and other wastes. Whatever kind of material you are purchasing make sure they will be ready when you need them and always make sure of the presence of services on the site before you purchase them.
Where you keep your materials is also important, are they safe? Using an artisan (bricklayer, carpenter, welder etc) to do the job of a professional like Architect, Structural Engineer etc. is not advisable on your site make sure everyone is qualified for the job at hand and don’t allow any contractor to decide for you because you are the boss and pay only when the job is satisfactory however, don’t cut corners because it will cost you more later.
You can get the best quality of materials in Nigeria, you may not need to go abroad for this, don’t accept poor quality material or workmanship for your job.
ROLANDO
To get a building constructed can be very easy if you follow these steps I will be explaining to you. Before you begin at all or planning to do anything is better you know what is involved on that thing, and in your plan know how much you are going to spend,and you need to know the numbers of people you’ll be using so that you don’t end up paying people on your site that didn’t work for the day.
There are stages in building constructions that you must follow and requirements of labor varies but have it in your mind that anybody you bring to your site, work or not, they will have to be paid. And in case your first plan doesn’t work you can try another one.
A lot of books are out there advertising new innovations on building, you may be surprised to find out that what you need right now are right in those papers , and you have more opportunities of alternatives.
The reputation of your professional or contractor; how honest is he and which of his past jobs can he point to? who can stand for him, or recommend him to carry out your job.
Make sure this person is actually qualified for the job.
Whatever you estimate, our economy is besiege by unending inflation, you will always be expected to spend more at the end of the day, so earmark 20% of the estimate for your building for exigencies, though make sure you don’t stretch your budget to the limit, or what is the essence of a shelter if you don’t have money to provide food for you and your family?
It is important you approve your building plan because of future occurrences, the government can decide to turn your building to a road, what will you use to fight back or at least be paid compensation for your property. If you are a businessman with an approved plan you can turn your property as a collateral to obtain loan from the bank to help your business.
You and your contractor must have written agreement on a specific task he is to perform and also documents amount you pay him and always let him sign under to confirm amount of money you have paid to him, if you fail to do this, the probability is very high that you’ll quarrel over money with your contractor as the job progresses. I have seen several cases of this. If you feel what he’s charging is a bit on the high side is better you price lower and find out how your building will reflect the amount of money you are paying. Though the cheapest price is not always the best and the cheapest at the long run may end up being the costliest.
The safety of your workers on site is very important to avoid disaster let your contractor stipulates his health measures for his workers especially in a large building.
When you are not sure of a step you are about to take, please don’t hesitate to ask the professionals before you embark on it, it may ruin your plans when you don’t seek advice, and local contractors and professionals can be of immense benefits also when you need them at short notice. Remember you are employing and creating a job by giving out your project to be managed by a professional who may actually be your friend, but in this case this is business and should be treated as such.
When purchasing materials, always go for the best quality and don’t hesitate to ask for discounts, you will be shocked by the amount of money that will be returned to you. When your contractor is offering you a deal that is too sweet to your hearing and too generous to your purse then you may be heading for disaster. Building work is not always as smooth sailing as some people will make you believe.
You can also save cost unknowingly when you build the biggest possible size you can afford as it will cost less if done at the initial stage rather than as extension later on especially when you are sure of your capabilities.
There is no need for being unnecessarily apprehensive to get your building completed very fast, be patient to watch out for favorable weather when building and also give room for waste management, so that you don’t end up having no space for your septic, refuse and other wastes. Whatever kind of material you are purchasing make sure they will be ready when you need them and always make sure of the presence of services on the site before you purchase them.
Where you keep your materials is also important, are they safe? Using an artisan (bricklayer, carpenter, welder etc) to do the job of a professional like Architect, Structural Engineer etc. is not advisable on your site make sure everyone is qualified for the job at hand and don’t allow any contractor to decide for you because you are the boss and pay only when the job is satisfactory however, don’t cut corners because it will cost you more later.
You can get the best quality of materials in Nigeria, you may not need to go abroad for this, don’t accept poor quality material or workmanship for your job.
ROLANDO