Resources and Services
Design Ideas
Undertaking a Second Story Remodel
Q: We are in the process of planning a second story addition as well as some updating to the rest of the house. There are so many choices and decisions to be made that I am beginning to realize that I might need more than a contractor’s help. Is this where a “designer” comes in or an architect? Help!
A: The process of obtaining design assistance can be difficult for the homeowner because there are often no clearly defined boundaries among various home improvement design professionals. Ultimately, you need to find the individual or organization that understands the nature of your project and can serve your needs. The best way to do this is to contact several residential designers, architects and contractors. Tell them what you want to accomplish and see who is the right fit for what you want to do. If they are quality professionals, they will be honest about what they can and cannot do for you.
Some contractors who can only build what you tell them usually prefer to build according to plans supplied to them, and will provide little design assistance. At the other extreme are designers or architects who only design but cannot build. The most common complaint I hear about many designers and architects is that because they are not in touch with construction costs, many beautifully designed projects are never built because they end up costing more than the owner expected.
More Popular Entries
Additions & Remodels
Remodeling Opportunities in the Kitchen
Details Make Home Offices Work
Reinvent Your Home
Agents (Real Estate), Appraisers & Home Inspectors
Condominiums
Glossary of Real Estate Terms
House Buying Mistakes
Appliances
Repair Dishwasher and Water Damage
Remove Rust From Water
Tip: Cleaning Dishwasher Stains
Builders (New Homes), Architects & Designers
More Return on Your Home Improvement Investment
Checklist: Recommended Questions to Ask a Contractor
Checklist: Questions to Ask Your Architect
Carpentry & Cabinets
Tip: Repair Laminate Countertops
Steel vs. Wood Framing
Reface Cabinet
Cleaning Services
Breathing Better in Your Home
Tip: Cleaning Fireplace Burns
Choosing a Maid Service
Concrete, Brick & Stone
Specialty Finishes for Concrete Patios and Other Flatwork
Installing Masonry Flatwork
Pouring Concrete Driveway or Walkway
Consumer Guides
Conventionally Framed Home Builder
Avoiding Fraudulent Contractors
How to Buy Roofing
Design Ideas
Remodeling Opportunities in the Kitchen
Choosing Between Blinds or Shades
Patios for Living
Electrical, Telephone & Data
While You’re Away
Generator Repair
Illuminate Your Kitchen
Expert Advice
Window and Door Solutions
Refinishing Hardwood Flooring
Moisture Build-up on Windows
Flooring
Carpet Types
Damaged Tiles
Ceramic Tile
Handyman Services
The Benefits of Weatherstripping
Find a Handyman for Small Repairs
What Happened to the Handyman?
Heating & Cooling
Understanding Boiler Radiator Systems
Installing Central Heating
Checklist: Cold Weather Survival Tips
Home Construction
Do-It-Yourself Compared to Hiring a Pro
Timber Framed Homes
Understanding Pre-manufactured and Kit Homes
Landscape, Decks & Fences
Landscape Design
Using a Tree Stump Removal Service
Find a Garden Hose
Moving & Storage
Stowing it Away: Where to Put It
Finding a Truck Rental Service
Checklist: Hiring a Real Estate Agent
Other Services
Assessing Storm Damage
Tents for a Special Occasions
Checklist: Protect Your House from Fire
Painting & Staining
Exterior Painting
Quality Paint Jobs
Planning for House Painting
Plumbing
Install a Water Heater
Install a Solar Water Heater
Planning Small Plumbing Installation
Quick Tips
Tip: Basic Bathroom Remodeling Tips
Tip: Repair Your Own Roof
Tip: Radon Testing
Roofing, Siding & Gutters
Ventilation is Key to How Long Your Roof Will Last
Tip: Roof Leaks
How to Buy Roofing
SP Feature Article
The Internet Will Change the Buying of Services
Walls & Ceilings
Understanding Plaster
Drywall Panels and Sheets
Drywall Installation Techniques
Windows & Doors
Window and Door Solutions
The U-factor of Thermal Replacement Windows
Security Bar Install