Q & A

Answers to commonly asked questions from the experts on Thumbtack.

Why should you hire a contractor?

Hiring a general contractor is a good idea for many remodeling projects. Home renovation contractors have a broad range of skills to manage, coordinate and complete a project. They should help make sure your project comes in on time and within your budget as they hire and supervise all the necessary subcontractors, including electricians and plumbers. They also handle procuring all the materials required for your job. Some homeowners look to save money by acting as their own contractor, but an experienced home renovation contractor is worth the cost. They should know local building codes, be able to pull all necessary permits, and work with inspectors to make sure the construction meets local codes. Also, because they get professional discounts, they can typically buy materials at a better price than you can; better prices on materials and labor save you money, and make up for at least a percentage of the cost of the contractor.

What is a general contractor?

When starting a home remodel or new construction project, you will probably hire a general contractor. A general contractor is a professional who is qualified to take a set of building plans and construct them as outlined. The general contractor may help perform the day-to-day building, or they may just hire workers and oversee all the work activities. In either case, the job of the general contractor is to see that your project gets built.

When you have a building project, ask for bids from various contractors. The bids tell you how much each will charge and what their scope of work will be. Once you have selected a bid, you sign a contract with that general contractor outlining the specifics of the project and the milestones during the project when they will receive payment installments. Once the contract is official, the general contractor will bring in their crew to begin construction. The contractor will manage the workers and subcontractors (anyone who doesn’t work directly for their company but that they need to outsource, like a marble installation pro), order all the materials, obtain work permits, and confirm that all the workers and subcontractors are completing their projects as planned. They typically handle all the payments to the workers and subcontractors, and send you invoice. For all these reasons, it’s also especially important to follow a few smart hiring practices when it comes to finding a general contractor. If you are organized and competent to oversee construction projects, and are able to make sure everything is being built properly and meeting code, it’s possible you can be your own general contractor.

How do you choose a commercial general contractor?

A commercial contractor provides similar services as a residential general contractor but specializes in working with large-scale projects for businesses, schools, nonprofits, governments and development firms. When researching commercial general contractors, review their portfolio of work and confirm they have ample experience working in the area you need. For example, if you are building a small strip mall, ask if the contractors have experience successfully incorporating all the needed elements such as a parking lot, meeting ADA requirements, accessing the proper permits, and completing work on time.

Once you’ve identified several qualified candidates, request bids for your project and then compare the scope of work with your needs and budget. Your commercial general contractor should oversee design, permitting, construction, materials purchase, and adherence to building code and zoning regulations, as well as sticking to an agreed-upon budget and schedule. It’s important to establish clear communication with your future commercial general contractor, as this will mean a smoother process for everyone. For all these reasons, it’s also especially important to follow a few smart hiring practices when it comes to finding a general contractor.

Do I need a contractor for a kitchen remodel?

A kitchen remodel is one of the most important investments you can make in your home, and it’s critical to get the details right; that’s where a home renovation contractor comes in. A minor remodel usually includes new cabinet faces and hardware, replacement appliances, and paint, while an extensive job may enlarge the kitchen’s square footage, install new cabinets or an island, change the layout, and lay new tile or hardwood floors. Any renovation that includes filing permits, construction, or electrical or plumbing work is best completed by an experienced contractor who knows local codes.

How much will it cost to remodel my house?

The cost to remodel a home is highly variable — size and scope of the project, quality of materials, and the number of subcontractors required to complete the job all affect the total cost. The average national cost of a home renovation project is $13,500. The national average per-square-foot cost of a remodel ranges from $25 to $100. Nationally, kitchen and bathroom remodels are the most popular types of projects, in part because they typically have the highest return on investment when the home is sold. The national average cost of a major kitchen remodel ranges from $25,000 to $62,000, while the average bathroom remodel tends to cost $6,000 to $18,000. In addition to materials and labor costs, many remodeling project costs include permit fees, which, average $900 or more, depending on your location.

Asim M.

Verified review

I contacted multiple contractors for major home renovation in Pearland. Out of all those Juan Perez JLD services stands out. He took his time to explain everything, provided me with places to buy material at wholesale prices and did a great job. He did my wood flooring, tile, carpet, kitchen/bathroom quartz, vanities, garage export, patio tile etc. His whole team is amazing. I am very happy with his services and glad that I found Juan Perez and will definitely used his services in the future. Don’t hesitate to hire him for all your home renovation needs.

TJ T.

When it comes to contractors of any kind I am a skeptic, however in the situation I was in (needing to get a property cleaned asap) I had no choice but to use one and I have to say that Silver Water Solutions was simply amazing! Professional, reasonable, prompt and more importantly they did a GREAT job! In fact they did more than I expected. I am very pleased with this company and will definitely use them on a ratable basis going forward. Fantastic job!

Sheri U.

Isaac is one of the most professional contractors I've ever worked with and his drywall job was awesome! He was always on time and worked hard, as well as great communication and a fair price. I would definitely recommend him! Great job, Isaac!

Doris M.

Adam was punctual, professional and efficient while removing a small chandelier for me. His price point was reasonable as well. I would use him again and would refer him to others.

Jane J.

Everyone I came in contact with at Tell Projects was highly professional, courteous, and patiently answered all my questions during our recent shower remodel. The work was completed on time, exactly as promised, and exactly at the cost quoted. The crew that came to my home were all Tell Projects employees, not outside contractors; and the same crew of plumbers, painters, tile installers and glass installers worked the entire project from start to finish. The finished work is beautiful and we couldn't be happier. I look forward to working with them on my next project.

Lam T.

I really like PES and would recommend them to anyone who need a roof repair or replacement. As a matter of fact, while working on my roof, my uncle and my neighbor saw and like what PES done to my roof so they asked PES to give them an estimate as well. One of my biggest pet peeves was unresponsive contractors but Javier with PES was very responsive. He will go out of his way to work with your schedule and return your missed phone calls promptly. PES fees were very reasonable, respectful and friendly crew, and did a good job of cleaning up after. Highly recommended.

Connie G.

I am so pleased with the work done by Galveston Construction....I couldn't have selected a better company....Stan, the owner communicated with me so well, answered my many questions, reassuring me, wanting me to be pleased... of which I was...he was very punctual and went above and beyond what I expected from dealing with other contractors....he kept the work area clean and once finished, even did a small job on my entrance gate without charge....I highly recommend Galveston Construction and will recommend him to many. You won't be disppointed.

Peter S.

The house paint project was delayed due to the returning rain. The paint project was finished satisfactory in 2 weeks. A great contractor to work with for owners with project management experience.

Chris C.

It was a great experience dealing with All-Pro. Very knowledgeable, very fast, and required little on my part making it completely hassle free. Definitely recommend them to anyone and everyone!

Alan R.

Have to say I went through a lot of contractors before settling on Scott. He explained how and what was needed. No surprises! I loved my bathroom remodel and have gotten several compliments. Thank you Scott. Got some more work coming your way!👍

T.J. K.

John Guillot, the owner of Atlas Construction and Remodeling, is a very friendly guy who is courteous, kind and professional. All attributes consumers like me look for when hiring professional help around the house. It is also a huge plus that Mr. Guillot is very knowledgeable and does amazing work too. I hired Mr. Guillot to do a welding job to my favorite chair. My chair is like new again! Without reservation, I highly recommend the services of Atlas Construction and Remodeling. We are using Atlas Construction and Remodeling for our 'bucket list' of work starting with painting. Thank you, -Tim Tim Kightlinger BSN, RN League City, Texas 77573

Christopher W.

Torres Construction is unique in both attention to detail and professionalism. They completed several projects for our Home Owners Association, far exceeding our expectations, bringing each project in ahead of schedule and in line with budget. We cannot say enough about the excellent performance received from David and his crew.

Ken B.

John totally renovated a house that I was needing to sell. He did amazing work and really went above and beyond. The house sold in less than a week and we received the full asking price. He did such a great job that I have had him come and do three other projects at my other home. I fully recommend John for any job big or small. He is five stars in my book!

Mary S.

Very responsive and helpful! Did a great job taking the top of the door frame off with no damage and replacing it. We had to cut it out to fit a couch through the door and he was very neat with the frame and the drywall above the frame. Excellent work - would recommend and use again!

Jenny A.

These guys were fantastic to work with. They're the first contractors that I have worked with in Houston that acted like professionals, and the work was fantastic. Everybody showed up on time, communication was great, and the process was very easy. I submitted for a quote via Thumbtack, and they were the only company to (promptly) respond and send somebody out in a timely manner. The bid was reasonable, and exactly what I was expecting for the job. Bryan and his crew did an awesome job, and finished the work a day earlier than anticipated. Bryan was very adamant that the job was completed to my satisfaction, and was great during the final walkthrough.

Alexandra F.

Katrina and her team finished my porcelain/granite tile flooring, painting, and half bathroom installation. She was the only contractor that provided a reasonable cost out of all of the quotes I received. Her team arrived promptly each day and did a tremendous job! I will definitely use them for all of my future home projects as well as recommend them to all of my acquaintances.

Bernadette D.

My wife and I were interested in building a custom loft for our ten year old daughter. Space is at a premium in our Houston home and the slanted ceilings in her room made it difficult to find anything over the counter. Philip did a fantastic job of understanding our needs and built a beautifully designed, extremely solid loft. We would highly recommend him for any custom project in your home. He was on time, on budget and very easy to work with. We wouldn't hesitate to use him again in the future.

Eleny-Ly R.

Fast response from this contractor and flexible working schedule. High quality work performed. He did spot painting throughout the home and textured/painted ceiling area that had a leak damage. Highly satisfied. Thanks!

Fred H.

I've only recently met A&M and they've only done one project for me so far. But I have been impressed with what I've seen. Their work is good and the prices are reasonable. But what makes me ecstatic about A&M is that they show up when they say they will. None of this "oh I'm out in Richmond" when they have an appointment with me at the same time. I've had so much trouble with flaky contractors this year, and it's only gotten worse since Harvey. These guys show up when they say they will. I may have found my new go-to contractor. I had a drain leak in one of the properties I manage. The plumber had to cut out sections of the drywall and even a section out of the siding outside. After several failed attempts with other contractors, I found A&M. They showed up on time and made the repairs. The work looks good and they did a good job of matching the paint where needed. I sent them to another property today to give me an estimate for a project. They said they would be there at 3:30, and they were there at 3:30. I have never given such a long and flowery review for anyone. I usually just click the stars and move on. But I am so happy that I've found someone who actually does what they say they will do. I feel they deserve it. Before/after pics attached.

Bobby S.

Xclusive Residential Construction and Remodeling (Jeffery Young) came by the following day after I placed my search for a contractor. I was extremely impressed with his knowledge and gave me what I felt was a very competitive quote, even though it was the first one I received. I also had three other contractors come by and they submitted quotes as well. Two of the four quotes were very close...one extremely high....and one extremely low....Mr. Young's quote was the second highest. I trusted Mr. Young's opinion...his knowledge of what I wanted done...and the reputation and positive reviews of his company. The process only took two days....they cleaned up after themselves and removed the old debris....bottom-line, they did exactly what I wanted them to do. Mr. Young is very personal...it's not about money, it's about getting professional work done. I would definitely recommend Xclusive Residential Construction and Remodeling at the highest level....

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