▪ If are ever stumped with a question of how to proceed, it is easy to find an expert who will help you. It always pays to consult the following: structural engineers, soil engineers, architects, landscape architects, and construction consultants.

Questions for a structural engineer: Is this a load-bearing wall? I want to finish my attic. Are the floor joists strong enough to support it? Will the foundation be able to support the additional weight that I intend to put on it?

Questions for a soil engineer: Will the soil in my back yard support an addition? What kind of footings do I need to put in for support? How deep should they be?

Questions for architects: Am I potentially violating a building code? How do I get a permit? Can you help me figure out where to put the tub, shower, and toilet?

Questions for landscape architects: Will these plants grow here? What would be a good plant to put in this shaded location? What is a good plant to reduce erosion on this slope?

Questions for construction consultants: Can you tell me the name of a good carpenter? What is the proper order of events? In other words, which contractors should I hire to get this job done, and in what order should they appear on the jobsite?

Architects are easy to find and they can point you in the direction of the other experts. Construction consultants are usually other builders or renovators who don't consult on a regular basis, but are willing to advise you for an hourly fee.

▪ Avoid flat roofs if you possibly can. It is very difficult to keep them from leaking.

▪ You can find some great deals on the internet for much of your supplies. Sinks, faucets, cabinet knobs, and light fixtures can be found at great discounts on-line.

Miscellaneous Tips, Part 2

Former builder and instructor of "Save Time and Money in Home Remodeling" cont. ed. course at Emory University