Hire the right plumber, watch waterfowl in Akron and check out a sewing expo at I-X Center: Home and Garden News

Carefully interview plumbers before starting a major bathroom renovation.Villeroy & Boch

HOW TO PICK A PLUMBER: Need to hire a plumber for an upcoming project? Here are five questions you should always ask before signing a contract, according to Porch.com:

1. How do you estimate the cost of a project like mine?

Plumbers base their prices on materials needed, the complexity of the work, and how long the project will take to complete. The price of materials is pretty well fixed. Remember that your plumber will probably get his or her materials at contractors' price.

2. About how long do you think this job will take to complete?

Experienced plumbers can look at the project and calculate a rough timetable. The main variable is that there are frequently unforeseen difficulties. These could include the breaking of an aging rusty pipe or a slow leak in a pipe that has gone unnoticed. Be sure the contract has a contingency amendment that covers this.

3. Will the kitchen, bathroom, or laundry room that is being worked on be useable in the evenings if the work continues over several days?

Being completely shut out of the kitchen, or having your water shut off for several days can be a miserable experience, especially if you didn't plan for it.

4. Are you bonded, licensed and insured?

Any home professional entering your home and doing work on your property should be professionally licensed, bonded and insured as required by your state. This protects the professional, their employees as well as the homeowner and property.

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Hire the right plumber, watch waterfowl in Akron and check out a sewing expo at I-X Center: Home and Garden News