“I recently went to a new doctor and
I noticed that he was located in something called ‘the Professional Building’…
I felt better right away.” - George Carlin. Perception is everything. In this day and age
building science moves at such a rapid pace it can be difficult to stay up to
date. 100 short years ago most of the
material that went into a home came out of a field, a quarry, or a saw
mill. These days quite a few of the
materials in new construction are composites and many could have very well been
one of your recycled beverage bottles.
The raw frame is about the only material that an early 20th
century builder would recognize and the time honored traditions do not always
apply. Today’s professionals need to be
savvy in order to understand the difference between a proven innovation and an
untested fad. Like many industries this
requires an investment in continuing education and a commitment to personal
growth. The average home owner will not
know what the difference is between Tyvek, Typar, Triflex, Felt paper, or bituminous
waterproofing, let alone when or how they should be applied, if at all. A good general contractor is supposed to be
an advocate for the owner and make sure that they understand what they are
getting. The Contractor also ensures
that the work being performed by the various tradesmen on the job, of which
there are about 15, is coordinated and that the workmen are competent. The
little things count just as much as the big things. The skill set that a
professional contractor brings to the table allows them to manage the big
picture while keeping an eye on the small details so that everything comes
together in a way that meets or exceeds the clients expectations. Emerson wrote, “A man builds a fine
house; and now he has a master, and a task for life; he is to furnish, watch,
show it, and keep it in repair, the rest of his days.” Hire a professional; you’ll feel better right
away.
Zach Baker
Vice-President
Starr Construction
Vice-President
Starr Construction
