Why You Need An Architect Working With The Remodeling Contractor Portland Residents Recommend

By Erik Heidrick


Some home improvement projects are simple. A new coat of paint here, a new light fixture there and you're done. Simple. However, if the home improvement you're thinking of involves structural elements such as building on additional rooms, moving or removing walls or other big jobs that change the foundation or structural integrity of your property, you should set your hammer down and bring in a professional architect.

Architects can provide a wide range of services related to engineering, design and project management. They have the ability to turn your dreams into reality. Of course, you will pay more for this level of expertise, so it is important to understand your choices and the best way to do that is to consult with your local remodeling contractor.

When you hire an professional architect to oversee a project, you are effectively putting the decision making process in her hands. All you have to do is write the checks. If you are comfortable with this situation, you can sit back and let the architect deal with contractors and budgets.

It's a good idea to bring your architect in right at the beginning. Instead of taking over someone else's work, she can create the original design, including floor plans and exterior restructuring. The architect will be familiar with what information contractors need to make competitive and informed bids. She will even walk you through the bidding process.

How to Use an Architect Having an architect manage your project from start to end means having one person to deal with through developing the original drawings and creating a code-compliant design to managing the workforce needed to finish the project. An architect provides leadership and creates a buffer to make the process smooth and less painful for you. However, this is going to cost a lot more than dealing directly with the contractors once you have the design drawings.

If you decide to employ a professional architect to handle your project, you can expect to increase your budget by at least ten percent. It will probably be worth it though. You won't have to be the one dealing with the daily crises, crews, and decisions.




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