A good handyman has a broad range of skills. He can do everything from a simple light switch to rewiring the entire house. He also knows how to pull permits, which allows him to work on your home legally.
Many handymen learn on the job, but others have more specialized training. Some even get their licenses and must pass exams to prove that they know what they are doing.
1. Refinishing Floors
Hardwood floor refinishing is one of the most common remodeling works, and it can really make a difference in the look of your home. However, there are a few things to consider before hiring someone to do it. First, make sure you know the difference between refinishing and resurfacing. Both offer a way to give your floors a new look, but they are different in terms of cost and the extent of work involved.
Refinishing your floors involves sanding down the surface of your existing wood flooring to remove any old finish and reveal the bare wood underneath. This can be a time-consuming job, but it is essential if you want to get the most out of your wood floors. Once the sanding is complete, you can apply a new coat of finish to protect the bare wood and keep your floors looking great.
When choosing a company to do the refinishing, it is best to choose one with experience. Refinishing is a labor-intensive process and mistakes can be expensive to fix. You also need to be aware that refinishing creates substantial amounts of airborne sawdust, which can cause allergies and asthmatic reactions. For this reason, it is important to wear a dust mask when working on these floors.
If you decide to have your floors refinished, be prepared for the project to take several days. It is important to prepare the room before beginning by removing all furniture and sealing off vents, windows, and doors with plastic tarps to prevent dust from spreading to other areas of your home. It is also important to use a vacuum and a cloth to remove any remaining dust before moving on to the next section of floor.
Once the sanding is complete, your floor should be wiped down with a damp cloth and allowed to dry completely. You can then stain the floor if you like, though this is not necessary. When staining, it is important to apply the stain in the direction of the wood grain. If you are applying multiple coats of stain, be sure to allow each coat to dry completely before applying the next. Finally, you can apply a new coat of polyurethane to protect your newly finished floors.
2. Painting
Painting is an important skill that any handyman should know how to do. It is essential to properly prepare a surface before you paint it, and you should also understand the different types of paint and application techniques that will allow you to produce a professional finish.
A big difference between a handyman and a remodeling contractor is that most handymen are not licensed or required to pull permits for their work, while most home remodelers do require a permit and have established relationships with local inspectors, making it easier to get your project approved.
If you are looking for a remodeling pro to help you with your project, ask friends and neighbors for recommendations. You can also read reviews and testimonials online to find the best pros for your needs.
3. Repairing Appliances
A handyman should be able to handle the basics of home renovations but should also have the expertise necessary for extensive remodeling projects. For example, if you want to replace laminate flooring with tile, your handyman will likely have to make structural changes to ensure the floor can hold the weight of the new material and prevent it from cracking or separating from the subfloor. A handyman will also know how to securely cover your appliances during a remodel to protect them from dirt and damage. This will save you from having to store your refrigerator, dishwasher, or washing machine in the garage for months while the work is being done.
4. Repairing Plumbing
A home’s plumbing is often taken for granted until something goes wrong. When this happens, it usually takes the form of a clogged drain or a leaky pipe that has gone unnoticed for quite some time. Often, these issues are the result of older pipes that have started to wear down. While you may be able to fix these problems on your own, it’s always best to call in a professional.
This is especially true for any remodeling projects that require you to tear down walls. When walls are removed, it’s the perfect opportunity to replace your old pipes. You can also take this opportunity to upgrade your water fixtures and install a new duct system for your air conditioning. If you’re going to be replacing the plumbing in your home, it’s a good idea to get a plumber in for a pre-remodel inspection. They can make sure everything is up to code and that the pipes are not leaking.
A handyman is the ideal choice for most small-scope remodeling projects, but you should rely on a licensed contractor to handle anything that’s outside of this realm. A licensed general contractor has a background in construction and specialized training in remodeling and can oversee entire construction projects. They also have the expertise to manage subcontractors, comply with building codes and work with architects and engineers. They’re able to save you money in the long run by making sure your remodeling project is done correctly from start to finish. They can also help you avoid expensive mistakes that may not be immediately apparent but will have an impact on the longevity of your remodeling project and your home’s value. A licensed general contractor will also be able to save you time and hassle by getting the job done right the first time.