Hiring bathroom remodeling contractors in RI is the best choice when it’s time to update your home’s bathroom space. A contractor ensures a safe, high-quality remodel that’s up to local codes. He or she will also know how to make your dream bathroom a reality, no matter the changes needed.
However, some homeowners might still wonder what a bathroom remodeling contractor does! Also, it’s not unusual to wonder if they can change their price, and what their contract should include. With this in mind, note a few details about bathroom remodeling contractors in RI so you know what to expect with yours.
What a Bathroom Remodeling Contractor in RI Does
In short, a Rhode Island bathroom remodeling contractor updates a space so that it better suits your needs and style. Remodeling projects might tear a space right down to the wall and floor studs or rework its entire footprint. Additionally, a remodel might add new windows or a skylight, wiring for electronics, and other such features.
Also, note that a remodeling contractor might need to make various repairs before other changes. For instance, he or she might remove floor tile and note rotted subflooring underneath. In this case, your contractor needs to replace that subflooring before installing new tile.
Lastly, a remodeling contractor often works with other contractors to update electrical wiring, plumbing, and the like. For example, a new whirlpool tub might require different wiring or plumbing pipes than what’s in the space currently. Also, a new footprint might mean relocating wiring and plumbing behind walls or underneath floor tiles. Your remodeling contractor will work with outside service providers as needed, to accommodate all your updates and planned changes!
What Is the Difference Between Renovation and Remodeling?
Technically speaking, a renovation updates a space while remodeling means to make it like new. In other words, if you only replace floor tiles and countertops, you’ve remodeled a bathroom. However, if you have a contractor tear out virtually every fixture and surface material, you’re probably renovating the space! This also applies if you rework the room’s footprint or relocate those fixtures and features.
That being said, the two words are often used interchangeably but not every contractor offers full-scale renovation work. For instance, some general contractors might only have the skills needed for tile and countertop installation. He or she might not be able to relocate plumbing pipes, install a new tub, and other such work. Depending on what’s needed to make your dream bath a reality, you might need an actual renovation contractor.
What Does a Residential Remodeler Do?
While some remodeling contractors might offer commercial work, call a residential contractor for your home’s bathroom update! Check out some reasons why a homeowner should choose a contractor who specializes in residential work:
- Residential remodelers can often provide ideas for how to make a bathroom more functional for a family. As an example, they might suggest more than one linen closet, to keep personal items separate.
- A residential contractor might also offer unique storage solutions for small bathrooms. This might include small shelves on the wall around a mirror or over the bathroom door. He or she might also suggest built-in shelving in the shower and other such ideas.
- If you’ve always dreamed of a spa-like experience in your home’s bathroom, a residential contractor can help make that a reality! He or she will usually know of all the latest fixtures designed for adding luxury in the bath. Additionally, they will know which fixtures might fit your space, which might be too large, and so on.
- If you’re looking to increase property values with a renovation project, work with a residential bathroom remodeling contractor in RI! He or she can often advise on what changes add the most value. Also, they might advise on common mistakes to avoid!
- Residential bathroom remodeling contractors should be familiar with local building codes. In turn, they ensure a completed project that meets all those codes.
What Should a Remodel Contract Include?
Every remodel should include a written contract! That contract should include a firm, final price without room for changes. Also, it should include the full scope of the project including outlines or blueprints of changes. Additionally, the contract should note how and when you pay the contractor.
Also, ensure the contract has a completion date and notes any penalties for a contractor going past that date. Most importantly, your contract should include what is called a “lien waiver.” This protects against a subcontractor putting a lien on your home due to not getting paid by your hired contractor. Lastly, ensure the contract notes that a contractor cannot change any detail of the project without getting your signed approval first.
Can a Contractor Change the Price?
A contractor might modify or amend a contract through what is called a “change order.” As the name implies, this order changes your contract terms including its price. Both the contractor and client should sign that change order before he or she changes their plans!
Also, note that your contract also dictates any potential price changes. If the agreement says that the contractor might add charges for unforeseen repairs, he or she might have the right to add those charges. Lastly, remember that an estimate is not a final quote! Never assume that a contractor will abide by an estimate’s terms but insist on a contract with a final price.
Homeowners should also remember that they can and should consult with an attorney when needed. Their advice is especially valuable for extensive and costly renovation plans! Paying a few hundred dollars in legal fees can be a great investment if it means walking away from a poorly worded contract.
Lastly, homeowners should also feel free to ask questions of potential contractors and ensure they get answers before signing anything! Never hesitate to walk away from a project if you’re unsure of its scope or a contractor’s agreement. In the end, you’ll protect your finances and your home from any risk of a poor-quality renovation and risky bathroom remodeling contractor in RI.
