Although life is slowly getting back to normal, nobody can deny that the COVID-19 pandemic changed the way this generation lives and works. The last year and a half have seen an increase in residential renovations and remodeling projects for people who continue to work or study at home.
Homeowners and new buyers want a house that accommodates permanent workstations. And because those virtual meetings and daylong conferences are inevitable even when people stay at home, people want to improve their home office ventilation and soundproofing for better productivity.
If you’re planning to add or improve your home office, or if you’ve been planning a kitchen remodel or bathroom renovation for the longest time, you might want to get professionals to help out.
Keep reading to find out which type of contractor can help you complete the job on time.
Different Types of Contractors
There are many reasons to hire a residential contractor. You might want to boost your curb appeal or add value to your property. Or you could simply want a visual change in your space.
Whatever the reason might be for your home renovation or remodeling plans, here are the different types of contractors who can help you out:
- General Contractor: They hire all suppliers and workers and make sure the job is done on time.
- Carpenters: They’re in charge of wood-related building projects like frameworks and finishes.
- Masons: They are in charge of stonework like marble countertops and stone-clad fireplaces.
- Electricians: They handle systems like cable TV, connectivity, fire alarms, and sound equipment.
- HVAC Specialists: They install, repair, maintain, and upgrade your heating and cooling systems.
- Landscapers: They take care of the greenery and flowerbeds surrounding your property.
- Roofers: Contractors with a professional roofing license can replace your roof and address your gutter issues
You can also choose contractors based on what your project needs
For example, you might want to choose a painter or a wallpaper installer depending on what you plan for your walls. You could hire a tile setting contractor or a carpet flooring installer depending on your flooring needs. You could also contact concrete, glass, iron, or steel specialists depending on the decorative elements that you plan for your house.
Other Things to Prepare For
COVID-19 won’t disappear in the blink of an eye. But that doesn’t mean that life should remain at a standstill. If you’re planning on renovating your house or remodeling one of the rooms at home, go for it.
But before you sketch out your plan and call a contractor, here are pandemic-related factors to consider:
Home renovation planning sessions can be held remotely
Pre-pandemic home renovations involved many face-to-face planning meetings, showroom trips, and on-site check-ins. But the pandemic has taught the residential renovation and remodeling industry to technology. There will still be some in-person meetings but most of these can now be held remotely.
Your general contractor might ask you to walk them through your property via teleconference just so they can get an idea of the spacing, measurements, and scope of the project. Interior designers might present 3D renderings of their design through video conferencing, too.
That being said, clear communication and detailed planning are important in making sure you and your contractor are on the same page.
Renovation timelines might be getting longer
Contractors have to follow CDC guidelines and OSHA protocols before getting started on the project, and all the way until project completion. They will be required to wear the appropriate PPE. And depending on state guidelines, they need to frequently disinfect their workplace and maintain social distance protocols.
Home improvement projects might have a limited number of workers within a worksite at any given time. The workers might require daily temperature checks before they reporting to the site, too.
These minor but essential steps in ensuring a safe renovation or remodeling could add time to the overall schedule. So, entertain the possibility of a slightly extended timeline.
Materials production cuts affect the supply chain
Materials production remains an issue in the home renovation industry. The pandemic took a toll on the lumber market as well as on other materials manufacturers, causing some delays in the supply chain. Many manufacturers continue to experience low inventory and permanent capacity closures.
So if you’re looking into the use of rare or limited materials, and they aren’t readily available, there might be delays in acquiring them. This could adjust the overall timeline of your home remodeling or renovation.
Additionally, limited materials could mean an increase in costs. Take your budget into consideration, too.
It’s tough looking for temporary housing during renovations
You don’t have to leave your home for minor remodeling and DIY projects. But for major renovations or large-scale remodeling, it might be best for you to look into temporary living arrangements. This allows your contractor to work without disruptions. You can also go about your daily life without distractions.
The pandemic has made it a bit challenging finding temporary housing during home renovations, though.
Hotels and short-term rentals continue to keep their accommodations clean and sanitized. But they still limit the number of guests. Plan ahead so you can secure temporary accommodation while your contractor works on your home remodeling or renovation project.
Keeping these reminders in mind, your project will go smoothly and finish on time.
