Additions: Why It May Take Longer & Cost More to DIY

So you are thinking of making a new addition to your house, but aren't sure about whether to hire a general contractor or try the do-it-yourself method, eh? When it comes to home additions, we aren't talking about changing a light bulb or putting a new fixture in the bathroom sink. We are talking about a full-on construction project complete with subcontractors, building permits, framing, drywall, in other words-THE WORKS! We have all seen the multitude of DIYers on TV or read about them on blogs, but making the mistake of not hiring a general contractor for your home addition could be a mistake that will end up costing you time and money in the long run.

First of all, one of the things that some people fail to realize is that putting an addition on your house is a full time job. I'm assuming you already have a full time job, which would mean that you are ready to assume the duties of two full time jobs? Not being able to devote all your time and energy to the project is undoubtedly going to make your timeline for the project stretch eve further into the future.

Trying to coordinate the massive amount of details required when you are your own contractor, all in between your breakfast meeting and the budget meeting, is asking for trouble. Having someone there all day, every day dealing with building permits, ordering materials, and keeping a schedule can speed things up substantially and allow you to enjoy your new space sooner rather than later.

When it comes to keeping costs down, having a quality contractor with construction know-how, contacts in the business and insurance, saves you big time money. A contractor has done this kind of work before; therefore will not have the same learning curve as someone who is figuring it out as they go.

DIY’ers are more apt to make "rookie" mistakes that will end up costing more than originally thought. Also, since general contractors are in the business, they have developed relationships with subcontractors and people with a particular skill set (i.e.plumbing, electrical). So they will know when a price for a service is a good deal or a rip off, while a DIYer might not have this inside knowledge.

Finally, if something were to happen during the building process, and someone were to get hurt, a general contractor has accident insurance that will not only take care of the person hurt, but can protect you from being sued later. If you are doing the addition yourself and happen to hurt yourself, your medical costs could go through the roof before you know it, and end up costing you much, much more than you ever planned to spend on your addition.

When you go to add that amazing home addition, make sure to take time to find a contractor that comes with high recommendations and glowing reports, and it will be sure to save you time and money in the long run.