If you’re planning a few remodeling projects in different parts of the house, you may be wondering whom to call–a handyman or a contractor? What’s the difference, anyway?

Remodeling with a Handyman

A handyman typically handles smaller remodeling jobs, such as fixing a staircase railing, installing shelving, repairing a leaking faucet and installing wall tile, like these designs from Old House Web. There are many variables in handyman services, however, depending on the person or company.

One handyman might be a retired general contractor who knows how to handle all the big remodeling projects, but prefers working on small jobs. Another may just handle smaller plumbing and electrical work, so it’s always good to ask about the person’s range of services.

What Does the Contractor Do?

The same goes for many contractors. Some focus on kitchen and bathroom remodeling, while others work on custom carpentry projects.

Here are some examples of which one to call:

• Adding wall tile in the kitchen–a handyman might be a better fit unless your contractor works on small, two or three day projects.
• Sanding and refinishing hardwood floors–a contractor who focuses on floor refinishing and can explain all about repairing and finishing. (Try this link from Woodfloors.org for more)
• A full bathroom remodeling–a contractor
• Repairing a deck, adding mulch and rewiring a light–a handyman

All Those Remodeling Decisions

As you compile your list, think about how specialized the remodeling projects are and how many different skills are needed. You’ll also want to talk about fees. Here are some details from Yahoo Answers.

If you need a generalist who can do a little bit of several things, such as electrical, plumbing, carpentry and yard work, try a handyman. If the project will take longer than a week and require building permits, go with a contractor.

Cold air drafts are not much fun, particularly if you live in the Midwest. This is the time of year when many people realize their windows are not sealed very well. Blasting the heat doesn’t help, as some of that expensive heat will literally go right out the window.

Tax Credits for Replacement Windows

The obvious solution is asking a contractor to install replacement windows, as these can provide a great long term benefit. You’ll stay warm and help reduce your heating bills. There also are government tax credits available for some replacement windows. Just make sure the windows you want qualify and make sure to keep your receipt. Unfortunately, the cost of the contractor doesn’t qualify.

Replacement Window Options

If you can’t afford replacement windows, try a few winterizing techniques. If you have just a few windows to do, this home improvement project should be pretty easy. If you have a whole house to do, take notes on the condition of each window. You may have some that need wood shims around the edges while others just need a little of that spongy foam to block small leaks.

Home Improvement Store Ideas

One inexpensive fix is to use shrink wrap, which can be found at most home improvement stores. You can use a hairdryer or other heat source to shrink the plastic to create a tight seal. It may not look great, but it does keep the windows sealed, and it’s not a major home improvement project. For an even easier fix, regular plastic and duct tape should work.

Another option is to buy or make heavy window treatments. Drapes are best, particularly those that hang down to the floor. Look for ones with a heavy, insulated lining. For maximum protection, do as much as you can to seal the leaks and then add drapes.

Here’s to a happy and warm winter!

So, you’ve got a few small home repair projects on your list. How do you find the right contractor? Most big remodeling contractors don’t want small jobs, but are they too specialized for a handyman service?

What Handyman Services Do

The answers depends on the type of remodeling work. If you’re trying to get some insulation in the attic or crown molding installed in the dining room, many handyman services do that type of work. Some people can even do crown molding installation without a contractor.

When it comes to fixing a boiler or a water issue in the basement, it might be too involved for a handyman service. You may want a contractor with heating and cooling expertise or who works for a waterproofing company. On larger projects, you also want someone with insurance.

Handyman or Contractor?

Here’s an interesting thread on the whole handyman service topic. You can see that it’s the larger projects that are less suited for most handyman services or individuals. They may not have the expertise or workers to do a full kitchen remodeling, for example.

Define Remodeling Project

The first step is to define the project(s). What’s involved and how extensive are the repairs? If you’re not sure, start with a contractor you know and explain the projects. They should tell you right away if the projects are too small.

Then call a few handyman services and ask them what they offer. How many workers do they have and what are their backgrounds? Ask a few to stop by the house to look at the work. Here are some good questions to ask when interviewing a handyman service.

In the end, it’s okay to simply ask someone if the job fits their skills or is too small or big for them to handle. Better to ask upfront then be surprised in the middle of the remodeling work!

Hurry. The relatives are coming. Time to makeover the house! No, this isn’t a new reality T.V. show, just the common seasonal craziness for home improvement folks. It seems there’s always something to do to get your house ready for guests.

You may be amazed how easy it is to do quick home improvement changes–even in a weekend. Grab that tool belt, some paint, and away you go. Some home improvement fixes might require a contractor, but others are easy to tackle yourself.

Which Home Improvement Projects?

When deciding which home improvement projects to do, think about your household routine. Pick a weekend when you don’t have other social commitments. The key is to get things done without driving yourself crazy. Even though these are easy projects, allow yourself some extra time to finish them.

When painting a bathroom, for example, remember there are more cut-ins because of the shower, tub, vanity, etc. The room is small, but you have more detail work so plan accordingly.

Quick Bathroom Remodeling Ideas

Bathroom remodeling also has its quick and easy moments.

• Reduce clutter–simplify the look of the bathroom
• Replace the shower curtain
• Add new towels
• Think about different paint colors
• For the DIY-er, consider adding new wall tile

For projects such as adding wall tile, you may want to work with a contractor. Otherwise, these home design changes should be easy to accomplish–easier than trying to fit in a full bathroom remodel in a weekend.

Home Design Changes for Thanksgiving

If you’re looking toward Thanksgiving, try these inexpensive home design decorations:

• Buy new tablecloths and napkins
• Get creative with a Fall-themed centerpiece
• Try your hand at Thanksgiving displays
• Consider scented candles
• Pumpkin serving bowls can be a treat

With inexpensive and easy decorations, no contractor is needed to bring life to your home during the Thanksgiving holiday.

Now it’s time to get to work on those minor and easy-to-finish changes–no time to delay!

Yes, the holidays are quickly approaching. If you’re planning to do some entertaining, you may be looking around your home with a frown. If you didn’t get to serious interior decorating changes this year, don’t worry. There still is time for some quick home improvement fixes.

Start by thinking about the traffic flow through your house. Where will visitors gather? The kitchen and family room are typical party spots, so focus your attention there.

Quick Remodeling Fixes

Paint is by far the quickest and easiest remodeling project to do in a hurry. Well, not too fast or it will show, but you know what I mean. If you’re still living with a version of  “Builder white,” it’s time to go for a warm harvest gold, dark sage, or even a burnt orange. Even one wall in a richer colors would boost your interior decorating. read more »

This is the perfect time to get all of your small home improvement projects out of the way.  With the warm weather you can work on your exterior and interior projects without having to brave extreme weather.  It can feel good to know that your home is looking and running at its best.  The best thing to do when getting ready to start your small home improvement projects is to make a list of every part of your home you’d like to repair, replace or improve.

After you’ve decided on exactly what you’re looking to accomplish with your home, sort out each job.  Figure out which you’ll need to dedicate an entire day or even weekend to and which you can knock out in an hour or two.  read more »

Many homeowners buy a house with the intention of making additions or updating it soon after they are moved in. Are you thinking your house needs some renovations, but aren’t sure what? Take a look at some of the choices homeowners today are making when it comes to their homes:

• White interior walls. Many painters find that homeowners are selecting white paint for the interior of their homes.

• Earth tones outdoors. For the exteriors of their homes, homeowners are choosing brown, gray, and other earth tones.

• Large additional rooms. Homeowners are requesting sunrooms, exercise rooms, screened porches, and larger, more detailed bathrooms.

• Tile floors. The most popular type of flooring is tile, though there is a growing, gradual selection of natural materials that can be recycled for floors.

For you forward-thinking homeowners, some hot new features already present in a few homes are starting to slowly become more popular and affordable. Dare to dream when it comes to what you would like to see in your home. Here are some features you may be seeing more and more of in the future: read more »